Why Overnight Breakfast Casseroles Are a Breakfast Favorite

Preparing breakfast in advance lets you enjoy your mornings without rushing around the kitchen. This casserole combines layers of savory sausage, colorful vegetables, and creamy eggs, all nestled on a bed of hash browns. It’s a one-dish meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or simply treating your family to something special.

Ingredients for Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Here’s everything you need to create this easy and delicious dish:

Ingredient	Quantity
Cooking spray	For greasing
Frozen diced hash brown potatoes	½ (32-ounce) package
Bulk pork sausage	1 pound
Red bell pepper (chopped)	1
Yellow bell pepper (chopped)	1
Onion (chopped)	½ cup
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Dried oregano	½ teaspoon
Fresh spinach	4 cups
Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)	4 ounces
Eggs (large)	12
Whole milk	⅔ cup
Dijon mustard	2 teaspoons
Salt	½ teaspoon
Ground black pepper	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish.

2. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until it begins to brown (about 2 minutes). Add the chopped red and yellow bell peppers, onion, garlic, and dried oregano. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is fully cooked (about 5 minutes).

3. Add the Spinach

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1 minute, just until it wilts. Remove the skillet from heat.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the hash browns in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top.

5. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

6. Pour and Refrigerate

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

7. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake it uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.

Tips for the Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Customize the Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Cheese Options: Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, Swiss, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and add plant-based meat alternatives or extra veggies.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	16g
Carbohydrates	12g
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	8g
Sodium	470mg
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g

This casserole offers a balanced combination of protein, fats, and carbs, making it a satisfying and energizing start to your day.

Why Overnight Breakfast Casserole Is Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish fits seamlessly into a variety of situations:

• Holidays: A stress-free breakfast option for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter mornings.
• Weekends: A hearty meal to fuel your weekend adventures.
• Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Potlucks: A crowd-pleasing option for brunch gatherings or office parties.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Southwest Breakfast Casserole

Add diced green chiles, black beans, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.

2. Meat Lover’s Casserole

Include cooked bacon, sausage, and ham for a protein-packed version.

3. Veggie-Loaded Casserole

Incorporate mushrooms, broccoli, and sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetable-heavy dish.

4. Keto-Friendly Casserole

Skip the hash browns and replace them with diced cauliflower for a low-carb option.

5. Cheese Lover’s Casserole

Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, and Parmesan for extra gooeyness.

FAQs About Overnight Breakfast Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and substitute almond milk or oat milk for the whole milk.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of toast for a complete breakfast.

5. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes! Peel and shred fresh potatoes, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture before layering them in the dish.

6. How do I make this casserole spicy?
Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce to spice things up.

Final Thoughts: A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For

Overnight breakfast casserole is the perfect solution for anyone who wants a hearty, delicious breakfast without the morning rush. With layers of hash browns, sausage, vegetables, and creamy eggs, it’s a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or just looking for an easy make-ahead meal, this casserole delivers every time. So gather your ingredients, prep your baking dish, and let the fridge do the work overnight. Come morning, all you’ll need to do is pop it in the oven and enjoy!

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