This Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole is the perfect hearty dish to start your day! With eggs, crispy bacon, veggies, and cheese all baked together, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug.
It’s super easy to make—you just mix everything in a pan, pop it in the oven, and relax for a bit. I love serving it with a side of fresh fruit for a colorful breakfast. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for this casserole. If you have egg allergies, you can use a substitute like silken tofu or a commercial egg replacement to mimic the texture.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk adds creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try almond milk or oat milk, but avoid using unsweetened varieties for better flavor.
Sausage/Bacon: The recipe offers shredded breakfast sausage or bacon. For a vegetarian version, consider using veggie sausage or removing meat entirely while upping the veggies.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a rich taste. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a bit of spice. Vegan cheese also works if you’re avoiding dairy.
Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. You can switch to spinach, mushrooms, or any other veggie you enjoy or have on hand!
How Do I Ensure the Eggs Set Properly?
Getting that perfect egg set is all about time and temperature. Follow these tips:
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly with milk to incorporate air, which helps fluff them up.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking. If the casserole browns too quickly, cover it with foil midway through baking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing; this helps firm up the eggs for clean servings.
How to Make Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or bacon)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped (if not using sausage)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for sautéing)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to prepare and serve it, making it a great option for a family breakfast or brunch gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating, grease your 9×9-inch baking dish or casserole pan to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a medium skillet, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and green bell pepper, sautéing them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened. If you’re using hash browns, stir them in now and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This is the base of your casserole!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the crumbled sausage (or bacon), sautéed veggies, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
5. Pour into Dish:
Carefully pour the egg mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and any additional bacon pieces on top of the casserole for that delicious, cheesy crust.
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool Down:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it slice better!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy a hearty breakfast with your family and friends!
This casserole is not only tasty but also customizable with your favorite ingredients. You can easily swap out the meats and veggies to fit your personal taste. Enjoy your hearty Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole eggs with egg whites for a lighter version of the casserole. Use about 1/4 cup of egg whites for each egg you’re replacing, but keep in mind the texture might be slightly different.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! To make it ahead of time, prepare the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Farmer’s Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Once baked, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.