If you’re looking for a warm, filling breakfast that brings comfort to your mornings, you’ve come to the right place. My Hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole blends simple ingredients like eggs, bread, and sausage for a dish that appeals to everyone. Follow my easy steps to create a breakfast your family will love. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s packed with flavor and joy, perfect for starting any day right!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole
– Eggs and Dairy: You need 8 large eggs and 2 cups of milk. Eggs give structure and richness. Milk adds moisture and creaminess to the dish.
– Bread Selection: Use 6 slices of hearty country loaf. Cubed bread absorbs the egg mixture well. It creates a soft and tasty base for the casserole.
– Breakfast Sausage: A pound of crumbled and cooked breakfast sausage is key. It adds savory flavor and a nice protein boost to the dish.
Optional Ingredients
– Vegetables for Added Flavor: You can add 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper and 1/2 cup of diced onion. These vegetables add color and enhance the taste. You can also try other veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more variety.
– Cheese Variations: Shredded cheese is a must. Use 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese. You can also mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
– Garnishes for Presentation: Finish your casserole with fresh parsley or chives. Chopped herbs add a pop of color and a fresh taste. They make your dish look more inviting too.
This simple list of ingredients makes it easy to create your Hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Casserole
Prepping the Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures even baking. Next, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and butter it well. This helps the casserole not stick and makes cleanup easier later.
Mixing the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. Make sure this mixture is smooth and well combined. This egg mixture holds everything together and adds flavor.
Assembling the Casserole
Layering the Ingredients
Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the buttered dish. This is the base of your casserole. Then, layer the cooked breakfast sausage over the bread. Add the diced bell pepper and onion on top. These veggies bring a nice crunch and color to the dish.
Pouring and Soaking the Egg Mixture
Now, pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Ensure every piece of bread is soaked. This soaking helps the bread absorb the flavors. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Cheese makes everything better, right?
Baking the Casserole
Covering and Initial Baking
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. This step helps cook the eggs without browning the cheese too much.
Finishing Touches for Perfect Texture
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown, and the center should be set. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice into squares and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Enjoy your hearty Amish breakfast casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Casserole
Ensuring Even Cooking
To make sure your casserole cooks evenly, use a large dish. A 9×13 inch dish works well. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom. Layer the sausage, peppers, and onions on top. Pour the egg mixture slowly, so it soaks all the bread. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first part of baking. This helps steam the casserole and keeps it moist. Remove the foil later to brown the cheese.
Customizing Flavors and Spices
You can add your own twist to the flavors. Try different spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs. You might even swap the breakfast sausage for bacon or ham. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary work great too. Adding a dash of hot sauce can give it a nice kick. Don’t hesitate to play around with the vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can add color and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Accompaniments
This casserole is a full meal on its own. However, you can serve it with fresh fruit or a light salad. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of salsa adds creaminess and zest. You can also offer toast or muffins for a fun brunch spread.
Best Time to Serve
Hearty Amish breakfast casserole is perfect for breakfast or brunch. It makes a great dish for family gatherings or holiday mornings. You can prepare it the night before, making it easy to serve. Just reheat it in the oven when you’re ready.
