Hearty Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

The Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table. Packed with flavor from savory sausage and crispy bacon, this hearty casserole is an excellent way to start your day. Perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches, it combines simple ingredients into a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Making this casserole is a great idea for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends. Second, it’s a versatile dish – you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether for a holiday breakfast or a regular weekend, this casserole will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites.

How to Make Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

Making Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is straightforward and fun. Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious casserole!

Ingredients:

2.5 ft / 80 cm baguette (French stick), preferably slightly stale
7 eggs
1 1/2 cups milk (full fat or half and half, I use milk)
10 oz / 300 g potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2" / 1.2cm cubes
10 oz / 300 g bacon, roughly chopped
1 lb / 500 g sausage, removed from casing (use good quality)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter, melted (optional)
Finely chopped parsley (optional)

Directions:

Slice the baguette into 2cm / 0.8" thick slices and place in a baking dish.
Whisk the eggs and milk together. Pour 2/3 of the egg mixture over the bread. Turn the bread to ensure both sides are soaked. Set aside while you cook the bacon and sausage.
Cook potatoes in boiling water for 2 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180C / 350F.
Heat a skillet over high heat. Add bacon and cook until lightly browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Pour off excess fat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up until lightly browned. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels.
Stand the soaked bread upright in the baking dish.
Distribute half the potatoes between the bread, then top with half the sausage, half the bacon, and half the cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients, finishing with cheese.
Pour the remaining egg mixture over everything.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and drizzle butter over the bread.
Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the bread is golden. Serve, garnished with parsley if using.

How to Serve Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is best served warm. You can slice it into generous portions and serve it on individual plates. It pairs nicely with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete breakfast.

How to Store Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake it in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Sausage & Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole

Use a stale baguette for better absorption of the egg mixture.
For extra flavor, consider adding some spices or herbs to the egg mixture, like salt, pepper, or dried oregano.
You can also swap out the sausage and bacon for your preferred meats or make it vegetarian by using vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

Variation

You can customize this casserole with various ingredients! Try adding bell peppers, spinach, or your favorite cheese blend to mix things up.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and leave it in the fridge. Just make sure to bake it in the morning.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

3. Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional, you can use ciabatta, sourdough, or any bread you like. Just make sure it’s a sturdy loaf.

Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!