Tennessee Pride Country Kitchen Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring seasoned sausage, cheeses, and eggs layered with croutons, perfect for family brunches or special weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sausage in a large skillet until browned.
- Drain, crumble, and set aside.
- Spread croutons on the bottom of a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer shredded Cheddar and pepper jack cheeses over the croutons.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage and minced onion over the cheeses.
- In a bowl, beat together eggs, half and half, milk, dry hot mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese layers.
- Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes.
- Let stand for 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. You can substitute half and half with whole milk to reduce richness, or use a dairy-free milk if desired. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the egg mixture. This dish is perfect for brunch or as a hearty breakfast option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. For an indulgent treat, consider serving it alongside Peach Pie (Cobbler) for dessert. This dish is a great centerpiece for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tennessee Pride Country Kitchen Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tennessee Pride Country Kitchen Casserole contains roughly 870 calories, with 19g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1357mg per serving (59% 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, this casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. After layering the ingredients, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
What can I use as a substitute for the croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use stale bread cut into cubes or even frozen hash browns for a different texture. Just ensure to season them appropriately to complement the flavors of the sausage and cheese.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.
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).