Amish Breakfast Casserole

How to Make Amish Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Next, cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and fully cooked. If you’re using vegetables, sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper in the same skillet after the sausage has cooked, allowing them to soften for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the cooked sausage and vegetables, then add the frozen hash browns (no need to thaw them). Mix everything together until well combined.

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, distributing it as evenly as possible over the casserole.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center of the casserole — it should come out clean.

If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 4: Let It Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into neat portions. Slice into squares and serve warm.

Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color and extra flavor, and enjoy with a side of fresh fruit or toast for a complete breakfast.

Tips for the Best Amish Breakfast Casserole

1. Use Fresh Potatoes: If you prefer fresh potatoes, peel and dice them, then cook them in a skillet until they’re soft and slightly crispy before adding them to the casserole. This adds a delicious homemade touch to the dish.
2. Add Veggies: You can easily incorporate more vegetables into the casserole. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
3. Swap the Meat: While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can swap it out for bacon, ham, or turkey sausage for different flavor profiles. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and add extra veggies or plant-based protein.
4. Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. A dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture will also give it a nice kick.
5. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses. While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even pepper jack will work beautifully in this casserole.
6. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before! Simply assemble it, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Variations of Amish Breakfast Casserole

• Meatless Amish Breakfast Casserole: Omit the sausage and add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a flavorful, vegetarian version of this casserole.
• Southwestern Breakfast Casserole: Add diced tomatoes, green chilies, black beans, and a sprinkle of cumin for a southwestern flair. Top with avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for an extra special touch.
• Bacon and Cheese Amish Breakfast Casserole: Swap the sausage for crispy, crumbled bacon and top with extra cheese for a bacon lover’s dream.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the hash browns with cauliflower rice or finely chopped broccoli to make a lower-carb version of this casserole.

Why You Should Try Amish Breakfast Casserole

Amish breakfast casserole is the ultimate comfort food for the morning. It combines all the classic breakfast flavors in one convenient dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a big family breakfast, preparing it ahead for a busy week, or making it for a special holiday, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

The combination of sausage, eggs, cheese, and hash browns makes for a rich and hearty meal that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Amish breakfast casserole is a delicious, filling dish that brings comfort and warmth to your morning routine. With its simple ingredients and hearty flavors, it’s a breakfast that the whole family will love. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just a regular breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Amish tradition in your own home!