Why Make This Recipe
Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that works well for family gatherings, brunches, or even just a special weekend breakfast. This recipe combines savory sausage, eggs, and cheese with the comfort of bread, making it a favorite for many. It’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd, making mornings much more enjoyable.
How to Make Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground pork sausage (hot or mild)
- 6 large eggs (beaten)
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 6 slices of white bread (toasted and cubed)
- 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (melted)
Directions:
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Prep the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Add the Meat: Spread the cooked sausage evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage evenly.
- Mix the Eggs: In a bowl, mix together the beaten eggs, whole milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the Liquid: Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese in the baking dish.
- Let it Soak: Add the cubed toasted bread on top, pressing it gently into the egg mixture. Allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake the Tray: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
How to Serve Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
Once the casserole is baked and cooled slightly, serve it warm. You can cut it into squares for easy serving. It’s great on its own or with sides like fresh fruit or a light salad. Offering hot sauce or salsa on the side can also add a nice kick!
How to Store Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, bake it in the oven or warm it in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread for better soaking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, choose hot sausage or add chopped jalapeños.
Variation
You can easily customize this casserole by swapping the sausage for bacon or ham. Adding other types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, can change the flavor profile as well.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Just let it soak in the refrigerator overnight and bake it in the morning.
2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, feel free to use whole wheat, sourdough, or any other bread you enjoy.
3. How long does it take to bake from frozen?
If you bake it from frozen, it will take longer—about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Be sure to check that it is heated all the way through.
Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage evenly.
- In a bowl, mix together the beaten eggs, whole milk, dry mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese in the baking dish.
- Add the cubed toasted bread on top, pressing it gently into the egg mixture. Allow it to soak for at least 15 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.