Description
Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast. It features fluffy biscuits, eggs, and savory toppings all baked together for a delightful meal!
Ingredients
To make this flavorful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 can refrigerated biscuits (such as Pillsbury Grands)
- 6 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (whole, skim, or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese blend you prefer)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions:
- Diced onions
- Bell peppers
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or chives)
Ingredient Notes
- Sausage: You can choose between pork or turkey sausage. For a spicier kick, opt for hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Biscuits: Refrigerated canned biscuits save time, but homemade biscuits work just as well.
- Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for different flavor profiles.
- Milk: Any type of milk works, including almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetables: Adding veggies not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture.
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: For cooking the sausage and sautéing vegetables.
- 9x13-inch casserole dish: Glass or ceramic works best.
- Mixing bowls: One for whisking eggs and milk.
- Whisk: To blend the eggs and milk smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board: For preparing biscuits and optional veggies.
- Aluminum foil: Useful if you need to cover the casserole during baking.
Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground sausage. Break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, stirring occasionally. If you’re adding diced onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables, add them to the skillet once the sausage starts to brown. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and the vegetables are softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease by transferring the mixture to a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Biscuits
While the sausage is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and separate them. Using a knife, cut each biscuit into quarters. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Arrange the biscuit pieces evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring they cover the surface without overlapping excessively.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, crack 6 large eggs. Add ¾ cup of milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk the mixture until the eggs and milk are fully combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. This step ensures a fluffy, custard-like texture in the finished casserole.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- Layer the Sausage: Evenly distribute the cooked sausage (and vegetables, if used) over the biscuit pieces in the casserole dish.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. Make sure the cheese covers the sausage evenly for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg and milk mixture over the entire casserole. Pour carefully to ensure it seeps into all the nooks and crannies, soaking into the biscuits below.
5. Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it after the 30-minute mark. The casserole is done when:
- The biscuits are golden brown on top.
- The eggs are fully set; they shouldn’t jiggle when you gently shake the dish.
- A knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
6. Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows it to set further and makes it easier to slice and serve. Cut into squares and serve warm.
Tips for Success
Notes
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Spread the sausage and biscuit pieces evenly to ensure proper baking and to prevent soggy spots.
- Check the Biscuits: If the biscuits aren’t fully cooked through after the baking time, cover the casserole with foil to prevent over-browning and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and good-quality sausage make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Taste as You Go: If you’re adding vegetables or additional spices, taste the sausage mixture after cooking to adjust seasoning.
Variations
This biscuit breakfast casserole is highly versatile. Here are some ideas for switching things up:
- Bacon Swap: Replace the sausage with cooked bacon pieces for a smoky flavor. About 8-10 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled, should suffice.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely. Add a variety of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or kale. You can also use a plant-based sausage alternative.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a spicy kick.
- Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella for a milder taste, pepper jack for some heat, or a blend of cheddar and Swiss for depth of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme into the egg mixture for added freshness.
- Add Gravy: For a heartier meal, prepare a simple sausage gravy and pour it over the top of the baked casserole just before serving.
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuits and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Low-Carb: Replace biscuits with a low-carb bread alternative or omit them and add more vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal in itself, but if you want to round out the meal, here are some simple serving suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of mixed berries, orange slices, or a fresh fruit salad to add a sweet contrast.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light and refreshing side.
- Beverages: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, tea, or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice to complete the breakfast experience.
- Brunch Spread: Add sides like roasted potatoes, freshly baked pastries, or a light green salad for a more elaborate brunch.
- Condiments: Offer salsa, hot sauce, or ketchup for guests to customize their servings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 per serving
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Protein: 20 grams
- Cholesterol: 200 mg