This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Packed with eggs, cheese, and hearty bread, it’s perfect for starting your day right.
You can whip it up the night before, so breakfast is a breeze. I love diving into a big slice while sipping my coffee—it’s a morning must-have!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a lot of flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian version, use crumbled tofu, seasoned with spices for that savory kick!
Eggs: Large eggs are a must here for the right fluffiness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer. Just keep in mind the texture will be different.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy consistency. You can swap it with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version! Just make sure it’s unsweetened for best results.
Day-Old Bread: I prefer using country-style bread for a heartier feel. You can also use brioche or ciabatta. If you only have fresh bread, toast it lightly first to help it absorb the egg mixture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. If you want a milder taste, try Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses for a different spin!
How Do You Get That Perfectly Set Casserole?
Getting the casserole to the right level of doneness and tastiness is key! Here are some tips to help achieve this:
- Mix the wet ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before baking — it helps the bread soak up the mixture better.
- Cover with foil for the first half of baking to prevent over-browning, then uncover to let the cheese melt beautifully.
- Check for doneness: the casserole should be firm in the center and golden on top. If it jiggles too much, give it a few more minutes.
Remember, letting it cool a bit before slicing allows it to firm up further. Enjoy your delicious start to the day!
Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and drained
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or country-style bread)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 1 hour of bake time, making it perfect for breakfast! You can also prepare it the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight to make your morning even easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mixing Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, crack open those eggs and whisk them together with the milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard powder. Make sure everything is well mixed and combines into a smooth mixture!
3. Layering the Bread:
Take your cubed bread and layer it evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms the base of your casserole, so spread it out nicely.
4. Adding the Sausage:
Now, sprinkle the cooked and drained breakfast sausage evenly over the bread cubes. This will give your casserole a hearty flavor that’s simply delightful!
5. Pouring the Egg Mixture:
Next, pour your egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage layers. To make sure all the bread soaks up that delicious mixture, press down lightly with a spatula.
6. Cheese it Up:
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of everything. The more cheese, the better, right?
7. Baking Time:
Cover the casserole with foil and pop it in the preheated oven, baking for about 45 minutes. This cover helps everything cook thoroughly without getting too brown.
8. Final Touches:
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits over the top. It’s time to let that cheese melt deliciously!
9. The Last Bake:
Continue to bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the center of the casserole is set. You’re so close to enjoying it!
10. Cooling Down:
Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it firm up a bit and make it easier to slice.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your casserole with some fresh parsley or chives if you like. Cut it into squares and serve warm. Enjoy every cheesy bite with family and friends!
This hearty and cheesy breakfast casserole is a perfect dish for gatherings, and it’s easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While day-old white or country-style bread is traditional, you can use brioche, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread. Just ensure it’s slightly stale or toasted so it can absorb the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time in the morning as it will be cold from the fridge. This makes for a super convenient breakfast option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the breakfast sausage and bacon, and consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also use a meat substitute for added texture!