This Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and filling dish packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes. It’s perfect for starting the day right!
It’s the kind of meal that warms you up and makes you feel like a champion. I love making it for brunch when friends visit; everyone leaves happy and full! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use bulk breakfast sausage or links. I prefer bulk sausage for easier browning. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too!
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for the best texture. If you need a vegan alternative, consider using a mix of aquafaba (chickpea water) and tofu as a substitute for egg, but it may change the consistency.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns provide convenience, but fresh potatoes can be used as well. Just peel, cook, and shred them for a fresh taste. You can replace hash browns with tater tots for a fun twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is the classic choice. However, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick. Vegan cheese alternatives also work in this dish!
How Do You Ensure the Eggs Cook Evenly?
Getting the eggs cooked just right is key for this casserole. It’s important to mix the egg mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients well. Spread everything evenly in the baking dish to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and spices thoroughly.
- Ensure that the egg mixture reaches all corners of the casserole dish for even coverage.
- Check for doneness around the 45-minute mark; the top should be golden, and a knife should come out clean.
Letting it cool slightly before serving helps it firm up, making it easier to slice!
Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or links removed from casing)
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or diced)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Time Needed:
This Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 45-55 minutes of baking. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to make this hearty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter so that nothing sticks while baking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break it into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, draining any excess grease if needed.
3. Sauté the Onion (If Using):
If you’re using onion, add the diced onions to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are translucent and soft. Once they are ready, combine the sautéed onions with the cooked sausage.
4. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until everything is well combined. This is where all the flavor comes together!
5. Layer the Hash Browns:
Evenly layer the frozen hash brown potatoes into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread them out to cover the entire bottom.
6. Add the Sausage and Onion:
Next, spread the cooked sausage and onion mixture evenly over the hash brown layer, making sure to distribute it well.
7. Pour the Egg Mixture:
Now, pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and potatoes. This will hold everything together and create a lovely texture once baked.
8. Top with Cheese:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a gooey, melty topping.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it: the eggs should be set, and the top should be golden and bubbly!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps everything firm up a bit and makes it easier to serve.
11. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious, filling breakfast casserole!
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping or serving at brunches, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage for a lighter option or chorizo for a spicier kick. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the casserole!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Simply assemble the casserole without baking it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the casserole. Just sauté them along with the onions before mixing them in!
