Frontier Breakfast
A hearty breakfast casserole with sausage, cheese, and eggs layered in flaky pie crust, perfect for weekend brunch or family gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan.
- Line the pan with pie crusts, fitting them to cover the bottom.
- Brown the sausage and chopped green onions in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Layer the cooked sausage and green onions over the pie crust in the pan.
- Spread picante sauce evenly over the sausage and onions.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the milk.
- Add grated Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green chillies, and sliced olives into the egg mixture; mix well.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until set and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. You can also substitute half of the eggs with egg whites for reduced cholesterol. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños in place of green chillies. This recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Pairing this dish with a fresh fruit salad can enhance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Frontier Breakfast is perfect for a hearty brunch or a filling breakfast-for-dinner option. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with toast or bagels. For a cozy touch, consider serving it with a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors. Enjoy with a slice of Lemon Pudding Cheesecake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 until heated through. Alternatively, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to maintain a crisp crust. Ensure it’s heated evenly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frontier Breakfast contains roughly 223 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 478mg per serving (21% 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 breakfast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers the night before and store them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, assemble the dish and bake it fresh. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld overnight, resulting in a delicious breakfast that’s easy to serve to guests.
What can I use instead of pie crusts?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust or a hash brown crust for a different texture. You could also consider a layer of puff pastry for a flaky alternative. These substitutes will offer a unique twist while still holding the filling.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and spinach for added flavor. Use non-dairy milk and cheese alternatives to keep it vegetarian and dairy-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
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).