This Amish Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day. It combines eggs, sausage, and cheese all baked together to make a warm, filling dish.
I love how easy this casserole is to whip up, especially on lazy mornings. You can even make it the night before—just pop it in the oven, and breakfast is served! 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: Ground breakfast sausage is key for flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage. Both can bring a delicious taste to the dish.
Eggs: Fresh eggs provide the best texture, but you can substitute egg substitutes if needed. For a veggie twist, use egg whites combined with a little milk.
Cottage Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it out for ricotta cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you want a milder taste, use medium cheddar or even pepper jack if you like some heat.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. You can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option, or use cooked and crumbled mushrooms for a vegetarian choice.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Baked Casserole?
To achieve that perfect baked casserole, focus on the mixing and baking times. Ensure that your ingredients are mixed well for even cooking. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven fully—it helps the casserole set properly. Use an oven thermometer if you’re unsure.
- When mixing the ingredients, fold the sausage in gently to keep some air in the eggs, which helps with fluffiness.
- Check for doneness by looking for a golden top and firm texture in the center. If you insert a knife, it should come out clean.
Let it cool a bit before slicing; this helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier!
How to Make Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Topping:
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Including the cooling time, you will need roughly 1 hour to have a delicious breakfast ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Stir it occasionally until it is browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, remove it from the heat, drain any excess fat, and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, beat the 8 large eggs until they’re well mixed. Then, add in the cottage cheese, chopped onions, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it is combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Gently fold in the cooked sausage and the chopped green bell pepper if you’re using it. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
5. Pour and Top:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that gooey, cheesy finish!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, and the center is set. A knife inserted should come out clean.
7. Add Toppings:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top, along with the chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty breakfast with your family or friends!
This Amish Breakfast Casserole is not just filling; it’s perfect for any gathering or meal prepping for busy weeks ahead!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of ground sausage you prefer, such as turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian sausage. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the casserole!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then slice and wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
