Description

A hearty, gluten-free breakfast casserole perfect for those hectic mornings. This make-ahead dish is filled with nutritious vegetables, savory sausage, and creamy cheese, ensuring a wholesome start to your day without the morning rush.

Detailed Recipe & Step By Step Instruction Here:

Ingredients

This gluten-free breakfast casserole recipe features simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s a more detailed look at each one:

Main Ingredients:

- Pork Sausage: Adds a savory, protein-packed base to the dish. You can use regular or spicy sausage, depending on your taste. For a lighter version, turkey sausage can be used.

- Hash Browns: These gluten-free shredded potatoes provide a hearty starch component, replacing bread while adding a nice texture. Make sure to use gluten-free-certified hash browns to avoid any potential contamination.

- Eggs: Eggs serve as the glue that binds the casserole together. They’re rich in protein and lend a rich, creamy texture.

- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar brings a sharp, tangy flavor to balance out the richness of the eggs and sausage. Feel free to substitute with other cheeses, such as pepper jack for some spice or gouda for a smoky flavor.

- Sour Cream and Milk: These ingredients keep the casserole creamy and tender. If you’re avoiding dairy, you can replace these with coconut cream and almond milk.

Optional Add-Ins:

To make the casserole even more interesting, consider adding:

- Bell Peppers: Adds color and a slightly sweet flavor. Green, red, or yellow peppers all work well.

- Mushrooms: Adds umami and depth, making the casserole heartier.

- Spinach or Kale: Boosts the nutritional profile by adding vitamins and minerals. Lightly wilt these greens before mixing them in.

Related Reading: Want to diversify your breakfast game? Check out our Healthy Breakfast Curry Recipe for a sav

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

- Brown the Sausage: Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage along with a chopped shallot or onion. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside. This step can be completed the night before to save time.

- Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together six eggs with one teaspoon of salt and half a teaspoon of pepper. The seasoning helps balance the richness of the eggs and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

- Add the Dairy: Pour in eight ounces of sour cream and three-quarters of a cup of milk. Whisk everything until smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

- Combine the Ingredients: Add the browned sausage, shredded cheese, and thawed hash browns into the egg mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture seems a bit too dry, whisk another egg with a splash of milk and add it to ensure all the ingredients are well-moistened.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out so that everything cooks evenly.

- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for one hour. After an hour, remove the foil and let it bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

- Let the casserole sit for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps set the casserole so it slices cleanly.

Cooking Tip: For reheating, cover the dish with foil to maintain moisture and bake at 350°F until warm. This keeps the casserole from drying out while reheating.

Related Link: Learn how to make an ideal breakfast side dish with our Cooking Oyster Mushrooms guide for a vegetarian option that pairs perfectly.

Notes

Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with your favorite non-dairy alternatives (such as almond milk or coconut cream), and use dairy-free cheese to make this casserole entirely dairy-free.

Protein Options: You can switch out the sausage for other proteins like cooked bacon, diced ham, or even a plant-based sausage to suit your dietary preferences.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.

Bread Tips: Day-old gluten-free bread works best in this recipe as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too mushy. If your bread is fresh, toast the cubes for a few minutes before using.

Make-Ahead Convenience: This casserole can be made up to 24 hours ahead of time, making it a great option for hosting guests or busy weekday mornings. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions: Pair this breakfast casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 210mg