Why Make This Recipe
Pioneer Woman’s Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines comfort and convenience. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want to feed your family a hearty breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. By preparing it the night before, all you need to do is pop it in the oven in the morning, allowing delightful aromas to fill your home while you sip your coffee.
How to Make Pioneer Woman’s Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 10 large Eggs: The foundation that binds everything together with a rich, creamy texture.
- 1.5 cups Milk: Turns eggs into a luscious custard, making the casserole oh-so-moist.
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard: A subtle tang that elevates all the savory flavors.
- 1 tsp Salt: Essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient.
- 0.5 tsp Coarse Ground Pepper: Just enough warmth to enhance the flavors.
- 1 lb Bulk Breakfast Sausage: Savory star, browned for maximum flavor.
- 8 slices Bacon, diced: Crispy, smoky goodness, used for both mixing and topping.
- 20 oz Shredded Potatoes/Hash Browns, thawed: Soaks up flavors and bakes into tender morsels.
- 8 oz Cheddar Cheese, grated, divided: Half for mixing, half for topping.
- 0.25 cup Green Onions, sliced: Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness.
Directions:
- Preparation: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage and diced bacon over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked sausage and bacon with the egg mixture. Add in the thawed shredded potatoes and half of the cheese, mixing everything well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for about 45-50 minutes, or until it is set and golden on top.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman’s Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Once done, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, topped with fresh green onions for a burst of color. It pairs wonderfully with freshly squeezed juice or a hot cup of coffee.
How to Store Pioneer Woman’s Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Pioneer Woman’s Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- For a spicier kick, add in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Consider using different types of cheese, like pepper jack, for a unique twist.
- If you prefer a lighter option, you can use egg whites and low-fat milk.
Variation
You can switch out the breakfast sausage for ham or cooked shredded chicken. Vegetarians can replace meat with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious alternative.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen hash browns? Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely before using them in the recipe.
- Can I make this casserole without bacon? Absolutely! Just use extra sausage or leave it out entirely for a lighter dish.
- How do I know when the casserole is done baking? The casserole should be set in the center and golden brown on top. You can also insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage and diced bacon over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked sausage and bacon with the egg mixture. Add in the thawed shredded potatoes and half of the cheese, mixing everything well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for about 45-50 minutes, or until it is set and golden on top.
- Once done, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, topped with fresh green onions.