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why make this recipe

Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic choice for a hearty breakfast or brunch. It combines savory breakfast sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy eggs, all baked together with golden brown cheese on top. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy mornings. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients!

how to make Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients :

1 pound breakfast sausage
6 green onions, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
10 large eggs
1 1/4 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons Tabasco (optional)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 (30 ounce) package frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

Directions :

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Let’s get started by setting your oven to 350°F. This will give it enough time to heat up while you prepare everything else. Meanwhile, take a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with some nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze later.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage Mixture
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the breakfast sausage, chopped red bell pepper, and the white and light green parts of the green onions. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. You’ll want to stir it occasionally, cooking until the sausage is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
Grab a large mixing bowl and crack in those 10 eggs. Add in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, a few dashes of hot sauce if you like a kick, salt, black pepper, and about half of the remaining green onion tops. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the base of your casserole, bringing all the flavors together.
Step 4: Combine and Layer the Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Stir 1 ½ cups of sharp cheddar cheese and the thawed hash browns into your egg mixture. Then, add in the slightly cooled sausage mixture. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Pour this combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out so it cooks evenly.
Step 5: Bake Covered for the First Round
Cover the dish with foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Let it bake for about 50 minutes. This step helps the casserole set without getting too brown on top while still getting all the flavors to meld together wonderfully.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil from your baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese over the top. Increase your oven’s temperature to 400°F, and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a lightly browned top and a set center, which ensures it’s cooked through.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Garnish
Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This makes slicing easier and allows the flavors to settle. Just before serving, sprinkle the rest of the green onion tops over the casserole. It adds a fresh pop of color and a bit of crunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!

how to serve Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

Serve this casserole warm, cut into squares or wedges. It pairs nicely with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You can also add hot sauce or ketchup on the side for extra flavor.

how to store Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to wrap it well!

tips to make Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole

Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.
If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can add more hot sauce or include jalapeños.
To make it even cheesier, use a mix of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.

variation

You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Another option is to use crumbled tofu as a substitute for the sausage.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it the night before. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. Bake it the next morning, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold.

2. Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use freshly grated potatoes, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture.

3. How can I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a little cover for moisture.