Introduction
Welcome to a hearty start to your day with this delightful Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole! Perfect for busy mornings or a special brunch gathering, this dish is a warm embrace of flavors. Savory breakfast sausage mingles with sautéed onions and bell peppers, all nestled within a fluffy egg and cheese mixture, topped with a crispy golden crust. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also bursting with nutrition—making it an ideal choice for feeding family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- 2 cups diced gluten-free bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned and fragrant, stir in the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano until everything is well combined and frothy.
- Gently fold in the gluten-free bread, cooked sausage mixture, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is evenly coated in the egg mixture.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top.
- Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the egg is fully set and the top is a lovely golden brown, inviting you in with an irresistible aroma.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Just before serving, garnish with fresh sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize this casserole! Adding vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the sausage mixture.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time—simply assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a warm breakfast!
Cooking Techniques
To ensure your breakfast casserole turns out perfectly, browning the sausage properly adds depth of flavor. Sautéing the onions and bell peppers until soft not only enhances their natural sweetness but also creates a pleasant texture contrast. Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking; this helps it firm up a bit for easier slicing.
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole dairy-free? Yes! Simply use a dairy-free milk alternative and leave out the cheese or opt for a dairy-free cheese substitute.
- How can I store leftovers? Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or oven.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly and bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
This Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a comforting way to gather around the table with loved ones. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the satisfying combination of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a cozy family brunch or a holiday feast, this dish is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a wonderful morning meal!