Jimmy Dean Easter Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring savory Jimmy Dean sausage, eggs, and cheese, perfect for family brunches or holiday gatherings with robust flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage, chopped onions, and chopped peppers; drain excess fat.
- Line a baking dish with three-quarters of the sausage mixture.
- Combine eggs and sour cream in a bowl.
- Season the egg mixture to taste.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage layer in the dish.
- Bake at 350°F until the eggs are semi-set, about 20-25 minutes.
- Stir the egg mixture gently and top with the remaining sausage mixture.
- Bake until the eggs are firm, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or chives. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can be used. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist or to reduce calories. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition, similar to what's found in Sausage Spaghetti Casserole. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty breakfast or brunch dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a balanced meal. For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of salsa or avocado on the side. It also complements other breakfast items like pancakes or muffins, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jimmy Dean Easter Casserole contains roughly 186 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value), calcium (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% 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 up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Jimmy Dean sausage is a popular choice for its flavor and texture, but you can use any breakfast sausage you prefer. Try turkey sausage for a leaner option or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version, ensuring it’s cooked properly before adding to the casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen, increasing the baking time as needed.
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).