This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is a warm and hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch! Loaded with eggs, cheese, and tasty bits of sausage, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
Honestly, I love how easy it is to prepare! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let the delicious smells fill your kitchen. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to that? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: A flavorful base for the casserole! You can swap it with turkey sausage for a lighter option, or try a vegetarian sausage if you’re looking for a meatless version.
White Bread: I love the softness of white bread for this dish. However, feel free to use whole wheat or sourdough for a bit more texture and flavor. Just keep the bread fresh and not too dry.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick! If you want a twist, you could mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some heat. Vegan cheese can be used as a substitute for a dairy-free option.
Eggs and Milk: Essential for binding everything together. If you’re looking for a lighter dish, use egg whites and low-fat milk. You could also use almond or soy milk as a dairy-free alternative.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Cooked Casserole?
A few tips will help you achieve a perfect cheesy casserole! First, let it sit for a bit after pouring in the egg mixture. This helps the bread soak up the liquid. Covering with foil initially keeps moisture in.
- Preheat the oven as specified to ensure even cooking.
- Bake covered, then uncovered to get that lovely cheese crust on top. It should be golden, not overly brown.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing to help it set up nicely.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious casserole that’s sure to impress!
Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 slices white bread, cubed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour of baking time. Altogether, it will be ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a fantastic option for brunch or a hearty breakfast. Plus, it’s great for feeding a crowd!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Base:
Spread the cubed white bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will be the base for all those yummy layers!
3. Add the Sausage:
Next, take the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage and sprinkle it evenly over the bread cubes. It adds a savory flavor that really brings this casserole to life!
4. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the sausage. We want lots of gooey, melty cheese here!
5. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dry mustard powder until everything is well blended. This mixture binds all the ingredients together.
6. Pour and Soak:
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layers of bread, sausage, and cheese. Take a spatula and gently press down on the layers to help the bread soak up that delicious egg mixture.
7. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes. This step cooks everything through while keeping it moist.
8. Add Toppings:
After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon on top. This will give you a crunchy, cheesy topping!
9. Bake Uncovered:
Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. This helps it hold its shape!
11. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is sure to be a hit at your breakfast table. Enjoy! 🥳
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread gives a classic texture, you can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche for added flavor. Just make sure the bread is fresh so it absorbs the egg mixture well.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the breakfast sausage and bacon. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. Baking it in the morning may take an extra 10-15 minutes since it will be cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
