Nana used to make this every Sunday before church. Still my fave!

Method:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by cooking the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, break it up into small crumbles with a wooden spoon. Once the sausage is browned and fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. If you’re using bacon, cook it until crispy, then crumble it into pieces.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if using). Sauté them in the remaining sausage drippings until they’re soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the casserole, but feel free to skip the veggies if you prefer a simpler dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This will be the base of your casserole, giving it that creamy, rich texture we all love.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish. Layer the cooked sausage (or bacon) on top of the hash browns, followed by the sautéed onion and bell pepper. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Finish by sprinkling the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the casserole with foil and continue baking until it’s fully cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into squares and serve hot. This dish pairs perfectly with fresh fruit or a simple side of toast.

Why This Recipe is Still My Favorite

There’s something about this breakfast casserole that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Nana’s version was always simple, yet packed with flavor, and it was the one dish that brought the family together week after week. Here’s why it’s still my favorite:

• A Taste of Tradition: This casserole is tied to so many wonderful memories—gathering around the table with family, the excitement of Sunday mornings, and Nana’s warm smile as she served us. Even though Nana’s no longer here, every bite of this casserole takes me back to those precious times.
• Hearty and Satisfying: With eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes, this casserole is a filling meal that can carry you through the morning. It’s comforting without being too heavy, and it’s the perfect way to start the day.
• Perfect for Busy Mornings: Despite its deliciousness, this casserole is incredibly easy to make. It can be prepared ahead of time, so on Sunday morning, all you have to do is pop it in the oven. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing while you get ready for church or spend time with your family.
• Customizable: While Nana’s recipe was a classic, it’s easy to make this casserole your own. You can swap in different cheeses, add in your favorite vegetables, or even use turkey sausage for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Nana’s Sunday breakfast casserole has remained my favorite meal to this day, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. It’s not just a dish—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a reminder of family. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast to start your week or want to create a new tradition of your own, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table.

So, gather your loved ones, cook up this recipe, and enjoy the flavors of tradition. Just like Nana used to make it, this meal will always hold a special place in my heart—and I hope it will in yours too.