There’s nothing quite like waking up to the comforting smell of a Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole baking in the oven. Packed with hearty potatoes, savory meats, and gooey cheese, this dish is the epitome of breakfast bliss. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a holiday gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
I discovered this recipe during a trip to Pennsylvania Amish country, and it quickly became a staple in my home. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and feeds a crowd without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite breakfast casserole. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy mornings or special occasions.
First, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy hash browns, melty cheese, savory sausage, and eggs creates a hearty, satisfying dish that everyone—from picky eaters to foodies—will enjoy.
It’s also perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the casserole the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning, making your morning routine a breeze.
Budget-conscious cooks will appreciate the affordability of this dish. Made with simple, everyday ingredients, it’s as easy on the wallet as it is on the taste buds.
Finally, this recipe is endlessly versatile. Swap out the meat, cheese, or veggies to create your own twist on this classic. It’s a great way to use up leftovers or cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating a balanced, satisfying dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Let’s start with the potatoes. Frozen shredded hash browns are the star here, adding a crispy texture and hearty base. No need to thaw them beforehand—just mix them right in for a time-saving shortcut.
For the protein, we’re using crumbled breakfast sausage. Its bold, savory flavor pairs perfectly with the cheese and potatoes. You can also substitute bacon or diced ham for a different twist.
The cheese is where this casserole really shines. A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella ensures a gooey, melty consistency with every bite. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or Swiss if you’re feeling adventurous.
Eggs serve as the binding ingredient, holding everything together while adding a fluffy, light texture. Whisk them with a splash of milk to ensure even cooking and a creamy consistency.
Finally, don’t forget the seasonings. A mix of salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. If you like a little heat, add a dash of paprika or cayenne.
No special equipment is needed for this recipe. Just grab a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a 9x13-inch casserole dish, and you’re good to go.
How To Make This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
Creating this breakfast casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to serve in no time.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease your casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your hash browns, sausage, and half of the shredded cheese. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and seasonings. Pour this mixture over the potato and sausage blend, ensuring everything is well coated.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for that signature golden, bubbly crust.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. The total time is less than an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
Storage Options
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this casserole stores beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring portions to airtight containers.
Refrigerated, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for a veggie-packed alternative.
- Low-Carb: Replace the hash browns with riced cauliflower to cut back on carbs while keeping the dish hearty and filling.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use spicy sausage for a kick of heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in additional cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta for a gourmet touch.
- Breakfast Burrito Style: Serve the casserole scooped into warm tortillas for a portable breakfast option.
No matter how you customize it, this Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is sure to be a hit. It’s a warm, hearty dish that brings people together, one delicious bite at a time.
PrintCheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole recipe is the ultimate breakfast comfort food. Packed with eggs, cheese, bacon, and hash browns, it's perfect for family breakfasts, brunch, or meal prep. Enjoy the rich flavors in every bite with this easy-to-make casserole that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Add the cooked bacon, hash browns, diced onion, and bell pepper to the egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the casserole is golden and set in the center.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sausage or ham for bacon, if preferred.
- Add a touch of spice with diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
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