Crispy Brunch
A savory casserole featuring sausage, rice, cheese, and crunchy Rice Krispies topped with a creamy egg mixture, perfect for hearty brunch gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cover the bottom with a layer of Rice Krispies and seasoned, fried sausage.
- Sprinkle with dry onions, cooked rice, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- You can freeze the casserole at this point for later use.
- In a separate bowl, combine cream of celery soup, beaten eggs, and milk.
- Pour the mixture over the casserole.
- Sprinkle Rice Krispies over the top.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding chopped bell peppers to the layers. If you want a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage and low-fat cheese. You can also swap the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or chicken soup for a different taste. Be sure to let the casserole cool slightly before cutting for clean slices.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy brunch casserole is perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch gathering. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Dilled New Potatoes And Cheese for a comforting spread. For extra flavor, consider offering hot sauce or salsa on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Brunch contains roughly 2699 calories, with 39g protein, 503g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (109% of the Daily Value), and calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2622mg per serving (114% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella can provide a milder flavor. Just ensure the cheese melts well for a creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
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).