Early Morning Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, eggs, mushrooms, chilies, and cheese, perfect for feeding a crowd or a family brunch with bold flavors and comforting warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage until browned, then drain on paper towels and place in an ovenproof baking dish.
- Melt the butter in a skillet over low heat.
- Scramble the eggs until slightly soft in the skillet with melted butter.
- Pour the eggs over the cooked sausage in the baking dish.
- Add the mushroom soup and chopped chilies to the dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions to the sausage while cooking. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage for the regular sausage. You can also use egg whites instead of whole eggs for a lower calorie option. This dish works well with any type of cheese; feel free to mix it up based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad like Yvonne's Salad for a refreshing contrast. Serve with warm biscuits or toast for a complete meal. For a heartier breakfast, consider pairing it with the Best Ever And Easiest Ever Roasted Turkey for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Early Morning Casserole contains roughly 397 calories, with 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings!
What can I use instead of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. This allows you to customize the dish based on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the casserole. Just sauté them briefly before adding to ensure they're cooked through and won't release excess moisture into 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).