Looking for a simple and tasty breakfast that pleases everyone? You’re in the right place! Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole will brighten your morning with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. In this post, I’ll share easy steps to create this crowd-pleaser, along with tips and variations to make it your own. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that will have your family asking for seconds!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make a tasty Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole, gather these ingredients:
– 8 slices of bread (white or wheat), cubed
– 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for a zesty flavor)
– Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or chives)
Nutritional Information
This breakfast casserole is filling and rich. Each serving provides a good mix of protein, carbs, and fats. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 18g
– Sodium: 600mg
– Fiber: 1g
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can make this casserole your own. Here are some easy swaps:
– Bread: Use whole grain or sourdough for more flavor.
– Sausage: Try turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter dish.
– Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
– Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra nutrients.
– Milk: Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
These changes let you customize the casserole to fit your taste. Enjoy experimenting with flavors! For the full recipe, check out the original source.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even cooking.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps with easy serving.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked and crumbled sausage, diced green bell pepper, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix these well until everything is spread out evenly.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard if you want a zesty kick. Make sure this mixture is smooth.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread mix in the baking dish. Ensure all bread cubes get coated. Use a spatula to press down gently. This helps the bread soak up the egg mix.
Baking Instructions
1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This keeps moisture in while it cooks.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. After that, remove the foil and bake for an extra 15-20 minutes. Look for a golden brown top. You can use a toothpick to check if it’s done; it should come out clean.
4. Once finished, take it out and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before you slice it.
Tips for Ensuring Perfect Texture
– Use day-old bread for the best texture. It soaks up the egg mix better.
– Do not rush the soaking time. Let the bread sit in the egg mix for a bit.
– Make sure to check the casserole in the oven. Watch for that perfect golden color on top.
Following these steps will help you create a tasty and simple dish that everyone will love. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Expert Cooking Tips
To make Paula Deen’s breakfast casserole shine, focus on fresh ingredients. Use good bread for a tasty base. I recommend day-old bread; it soaks up the egg mix well. Cook your sausage until it’s brown for better flavor. You can mix in herbs for a fresh taste. Try adding some hot sauce to the egg mix for a kick.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One common mistake is not letting the bread soak long enough. Make sure every cube is coated in the egg mix. If you skip covering the dish with foil, the top may burn. Also, be careful not to overbake. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Let it cool a bit before cutting for neat slices.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is great for breakfast or brunch. Serve it warm with fresh fruit or a side of yogurt. Add a light salad to balance the meal. You can also pair it with biscuits or toast. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a nice touch. For extra flair, a drizzle of hot sauce can really elevate the dish.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps for a Unique Flavor
You can change the flavor of Paula Deen breakfast casserole easily. Swap out the sausage for ham or bacon. You can also try using different cheeses. Pepper jack cheese adds a nice kick. For a sweet twist, use cinnamon-raisin bread instead of regular bread.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
If you want a vegetarian version, skip the sausage. Use mushrooms or spinach for extra taste. To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free bread. Make sure to check all your ingredients for gluten. This way, everyone can enjoy your dish.
Family-Friendly Additions
Kids love this casserole! Add some diced tomatoes or even some cooked broccoli. You can also mix in some extra cheese for a cheesy delight. Serve it with fresh fruit on the side to make it fun and colorful. For the full recipe, check out the original.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Paula Deen breakfast casserole fresh, let it cool first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. This method helps prevent any drying out. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating this dish is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven for about 15-20 minutes. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking often to avoid hot spots.
Freezing for Future Meals
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. Cut the casserole into serving sizes. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then in foil. Place them in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then follow the reheating instructions. Enjoy a tasty meal anytime!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
FAQs
What is Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole?
Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is a tasty, hearty dish. It blends bread, eggs, and sausage. The dish is baked to a golden brown. You can serve it for breakfast or brunch. This casserole is simple to make. You can enjoy its rich flavors with family or friends.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it the night before. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it as directed. This makes breakfast stress-free and fun!
How do I make it spicier?
To add heat, use spicy sausage instead of regular. You can also add diced jalapeños or hot sauce. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper can give it a kick. Adjust the spice to fit your taste. Spicy adds a fun twist!
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You can make this casserole healthier with a few swaps. Use whole grain bread instead of white. Choose turkey sausage for less fat. You can add more veggies, like spinach or tomatoes. These changes keep the dish tasty and light.
What to serve with breakfast casserole?
This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit. You can also serve it with yogurt or a light salad. For drinks, consider coffee or fresh juice. These sides will complete your breakfast spread nicely. Enjoy a balanced meal with these options!
This blog post covered all the key parts of making a great breakfast casserole. We went over the ingredients, cooking steps, and useful tips to make it perfect. I shared smart swaps for flavors and healthy options. Plus, I included how to store and reheat your leftovers.
With the right knowledge, you can create a delicious dish. Enjoy cooking, and have fun with your family and friends!
