Chile 'N' Cheese Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole combining savory sausage, green chiles, melted Cheddar, and a creamy egg mixture, perfect for weekend brunch or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread the cut side of each English muffin with 1 teaspoon butter and place, buttered side down, in a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned, stirring to crumble; drain.
- Layer half of the sausage, chopped green chiles, and shredded Cheddar cheese over the English muffins.
- Combine sour cream and beaten eggs; pour the mixture over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage mixture. You can substitute the English muffins with any bread of your choice, like sourdough or whole grain, for a different texture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. This dish can be prepared the night before for an easy morning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a mixed green salad for a balanced meal. Consider offering a dollop of salsa or hot sauce on the side for extra zing, and explore more American recipes that complement brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy on top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile 'N' Cheese Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 1270 calories, with 23g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 102g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1014mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I use instead of pork sausage?
You can substitute pork sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. This will keep the flavors rich while accommodating different dietary preferences.
How do I make the casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sausage mixture. Additionally, using a spicier cheese or adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the heat level to your liking without overwhelming the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).