Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish for gatherings: the Southwestern Breakfast Casserole! This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, packed with flavor and just the right amount of heartiness. Imagine waking up to the smell of sizzling sausage, fresh bell peppers, and melting cheese—it’s pure bliss! I love how versatile this casserole is; whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a festive holiday morning, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for when you’ve got a crowd to feed. Trust me, once you’ve tasted this dish, you’ll be dreaming up reasons to make it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 12 eggs (large, room temperature)
- 1 cup milk (whole or your preferred type)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color you love)
- 1 cup diced onions (yellow or white work best)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Southwestern Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because a hot oven helps the casserole cook evenly and rise beautifully. It’ll take about 10-15 minutes to get nice and toasty, so while you’re waiting, you can prep the other ingredients!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Now, grab a skillet and let’s get that breakfast sausage cooking! Over medium heat, add the crumbled sausage and cook until it’s browned and crispy—about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks so that it’s evenly browned. Trust me, the more flavor you coax out of that sausage, the better your casserole will be!
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Once your sausage is looking all golden and delicious, it’s time to add in the veggies! Toss in the diced bell peppers and onions into the skillet and sauté them together with the sausage. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, until they’re softened and fragrant. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions are translucent and the peppers have that lovely vibrant color. Yum!
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to whisk up the egg mixture. Add in the 12 eggs, 1 cup of milk, ground cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined and frothy. This is where the magic happens, so be sure to mix thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor!
Step 5: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Now for the fun part! Grab a greased baking dish and start layering in the goodness. First, pour in the sausage and veggie mixture, followed by the drained black beans. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and then pour that glorious egg mixture over everything. Finally, top it off with the remaining cheese. This will create a melty, cheesy crust that’s just to die for!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Pop that dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the edges are lightly golden. Just keep an eye on it—if the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil. Once it’s out, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. I promise, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone racing to the table!
Nutritional Information
This Southwestern Breakfast Casserole is not just delicious, but also a hearty start to your day! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
These values are based on standard ingredients and can vary slightly depending on the specific brands you use. It’s a perfect balance of protein and hearty goodness to fuel your morning!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s talk about how to take your Southwestern Breakfast Casserole from great to absolutely unforgettable! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Make it Ahead: If you’re hosting a brunch or just want to save time in the morning, you can assemble the casserole the night before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. In the morning, all you have to do is bake it! It’s a game changer for busy mornings.
- Experiment with Toppings: I love to add some fresh avocado slices or a dollop of salsa right before serving. It adds a nice creaminess and a burst of flavor that complements the casserole perfectly. You can also try sour cream, chopped cilantro, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce if you like a kick!
- Mix Up the Veggies: Don’t be afraid to switch out the bell peppers and onions for your favorite veggies. Spinach, zucchini, or even corn can add a delightful twist. Just make sure to sauté anything that’s a bit firmer to keep the texture nice and consistent.
- Cheese Variety: While I’m a big fan of cheddar, you can mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a gooey melt. Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices!
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If it’s puffed up and lightly golden, it’s likely done. Just give it a gentle shake; if it jiggles a lot in the center, it might need a few more minutes.
These little tips can elevate your casserole and impress your friends and family at any gathering. Happy cooking!
Variations of Southwestern Breakfast Casserole
One of the best things about this Southwestern Breakfast Casserole is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Veggie Delight: Swap out the bell peppers and onions for other colorful veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even roasted sweet potatoes. This will not only brighten up your dish but also add a delightful flavor twist!
- Cheesy Goodness: While cheddar is classic, why not mix it up? Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or go for a melty mozzarella or gouda for a creamy texture. You could even blend different cheeses for a flavor explosion!
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture. You can even mix in some taco seasoning for an extra layer of flavor that’ll really amp up the Southwest vibe!
- Meat Lovers: If you’re a fan of meat, mix in some cooked bacon or diced ham along with the sausage. The more, the merrier, right? Just make sure everything is cooked through before layering it in the casserole.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile significantly! Consider adding chopped cilantro or green onions on top before serving, or mix in some dried oregano or thyme to the egg mixture for an aromatic touch.
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own. It’s all about what you love and what flavors make your taste buds dance!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious Southwestern Breakfast Casserole and now you have leftovers—what a treat! Storing it properly will help keep all those tasty flavors intact. Here’s how to do it:
- Storage: Once the casserole has cooled down a bit, cut it into individual servings. This makes it easier to store and reheat later. Place the slices in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-5 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the casserole! Just wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, let’s talk reheating. You want to warm it up without drying it out:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist) and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s heated through. If it’s still cool in the center, give it another 30 seconds.
- Oven: If you have a bit more time, reheating in the oven is my favorite way to go! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, and cover it loosely with foil to prevent it from getting too brown. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s hot all the way through.
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your Southwestern Breakfast Casserole. Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I freeze Southwestern Breakfast Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure to wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. So easy!
What can I serve with Southwestern Breakfast Casserole?
This casserole is pretty versatile and pairs well with several sides. I love serving it with fresh fruit for a sweet contrast or a simple green salad to add a refreshing crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, some crispy hash browns or breakfast potatoes make a hearty accompaniment. You can’t go wrong!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know your Southwestern Breakfast Casserole is done when the eggs are set and the edges are lightly golden. A gentle shake of the dish will help you check; if the center jiggles too much, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook!
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use egg substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions. Just follow the equivalent measurements on the packaging to ensure you’re using the right amount. It may change the texture slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
What if I don’t have black beans?
No problem! If you’re out of black beans, you can swap them for pinto beans, kidney beans, or even some corn for a sweet pop. The important thing is to keep that hearty texture, so whatever you have on hand will work just fine!
Southwestern Breakfast Casserole: 5 Blissful Variations
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty Southwestern breakfast casserole perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 can black beans, drained
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage until browned.
- Add the bell peppers and onions; sauté until softened.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a greased baking dish, combine sausage mixture, black beans, and half of the cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
Notes
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to add any additional toppings like avocado or salsa.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 300mg
Keywords: Southwestern Breakfast Casserole