This hearty Amish Breakfast Casserole is a warming mix of eggs, bread, cheese, and sausage. It’s perfect for starting your day with a satisfying meal!
On lazy mornings, I whip this up and it makes the whole house smell amazing. Plus, it’s great for feeding family or friends when they drop by. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds rich flavor to the casserole. You can use pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer. Just be sure it’s well-seasoned.
Eggs: The foundation of this dish, eggs provide the base and texture. If you need an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for each egg.
Whole Milk: A great way to add creaminess, but you can swap it for half-and-half for extra richness. Non-dairy milk like almond or soy can work too, just make sure they’re unsweetened.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want a change, try pepper jack for a bit of spice, or use mozzarella for a milder taste.
Tater Tots: These give the casserole a nice crispy texture. You can substitute them with hash browns or even leftover cooked potatoes cut into cubes.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Cooked Just Right?
The key to a perfectly cooked Amish Breakfast Casserole is monitoring the cooking time and checking for doneness. Here’s how:
- Start with preheating your oven. This ensures even cooking from the get-go.
- Keep an eye on the casserole in the last 10 minutes. The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
- If the top is browning too fast, consider covering it with foil to prevent burning.
- Let it cool a bit after baking. This helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious and well-cooked breakfast casserole every time!
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 cups frozen tater tots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or butter (to grease the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Amish Breakfast Casserole takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and crumbled, about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
3. Assemble the Base:
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will form a crispy base for your casserole.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of tater tots. Then, take 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it over the sausage for a cheesy goodness!
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will bind all the ingredients together.
6. Pour and Top:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra melty cheese goodness!
7. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it, especially in the last few minutes!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Before serving, garnish it with the chopped green onions for a touch of freshness and color.
Enjoy a deliciously cheesy and savory Amish Breakfast Casserole that’s perfect for family brunch or a weekend treat! Serve it warm and watch everyone enjoy!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Sausage?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage to save time! Simply crumble it and add it to the casserole without cooking it first. Just make sure it’s heated through when baking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also enhance it with extra cheese for flavor!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time in the morning, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It also makes a great breakfast on the go!