You're about to discover the ultimate comfort food recipe – a Biscuit Breakfast Casserole that's packed with flavor and nutrients! This versatile dish is structured into three customizable layers, allowing you to adapt to various tastes and dietary preferences. From meatless options to cheese alternatives, you can experiment with different ingredients to create the perfect blend. With a foundation of add-ins, a middle layer of creamy eggs, and a top layer of flaky biscuits, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast staple. And the best part? You're just getting started – there's more to explore in this recipe, and it's just a layer away!
Key Takeaways
- This comfort food classic consists of three layers: a customizable foundation, a creamy egg mixture, and a biscuit topping.
- The recipe is versatile, allowing for various add-ins, cheese alternatives, and meat options to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- To prepare the casserole, layer biscuits, cooked sausage, and egg mixture in a greased baking dish, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- The dish can be made ahead, refrigerated overnight, and frozen for up to 3 months, making it ideal for meal prep and busy mornings.
Casserole Structure and Layers
You'll start building your biscuit breakfast casserole with a foundation of add-ins, which form the bottom layer of this three-layered dish. This layer allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking, with options like feta cheese, bell peppers, parsley, and pre-cooked sausage.
Once you've chosen your add-ins, you'll move on to the middle layer, which consists of a rich and creamy egg mixture. This mixture typically contains a ratio of 10 large eggs to 1.5 cups of whole milk, providing a velvety texture to the casserole. The egg mixture is the heart of this comfort food classic, and it's what binds the entire dish together.
Finally, you'll top it off with a layer of biscuit toppings, which can be made from either canned biscuits or a homemade version. The three distinct layers of this biscuit breakfast casserole work together in harmony to create a dish that's both flavorful and visually appealing.
As you assemble your casserole, you'll appreciate the versatility of this structure, which can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Biscuit Preparation and Toppings
With the egg mixture and add-ins in place, it's time to turn your attention to the crowning glory of this breakfast casserole: the biscuit toppings.
You have two options for biscuit toppings – either make your own dough from scratch or use store-bought canned biscuits for convenience. If you opt for homemade, combine 2 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 0.5 teaspoon of salt, and 0.5 cup of unsalted butter, then mix in 1 cup of whole milk to form the dough.
If using canned biscuits, cut them into quarters and arrange them evenly over the casserole mixture. To take your biscuit toppings to the next level, pre-bake them by brushing with melted butter and sprinkling with cheddar cheese and parsley. This will enhance their flavor and appearance.
Meal Preparation and Storage
Once your biscuit-topped casserole is ready, consider preparing it ahead of time to make mornings even easier. You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it in the morning. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to prevent the glass dish from shattering.
| Meal Preparation Option | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate overnight | Assemble casserole, refrigerate, and bake in the morning |
| Freeze the baked casserole | Freeze individual portions, reheat as needed |
| Reheat leftover casserole | Refrigerate up to 2-3 days, reheat in oven or microwave |
| Adjust cooking times | guarantee thorough and even heating if prepared in advance or frozen |
| Store leftovers | Refrigerate up to 2-3 days, reheat as needed |
When it comes to meal preparation, you have several options to suit your needs. You can refrigerate the casserole overnight, freeze individual portions after baking, or reheat leftover casserole. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if you're preparing the casserole in advance or freezing it. With a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast casserole with minimal effort.
Ingredients and Variations
Frequently, the success of a Biscuit Breakfast Casserole hinges on the quality and variety of its ingredients.
You'll want to start with the essentials: 16 oz. of Pilsbury biscuits, 5 large eggs, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. From there, you can customize to your heart's content.
Here are some variations to contemplate:
- Excluding meat and adding sautéed veggies or vegetarian sausage alternatives for a meatless option
- Swapping out shredded cheddar for sharp cheddar, Colby jack, or pepper jack for a richer flavor
- Adding chopped scallions, mushrooms, or fresh herbs to suit your taste
- Incorporating jalapeños or Tony Chacheres seasoning for a spicy kick
These tweaks will take your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole from classic to exceptional.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Cooking Instructions and Serving
You're ready to bring your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole to life by following these simple cooking instructions.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the biscuit base, then cook and crumble 12 oz. of breakfast sausage in a skillet until browned, scattering it over the biscuits.
Whisk together 8 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and season with salt and pepper before pouring the mixture evenly over the layered biscuits and sausage.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, covering with foil if the top browns too quickly, until the eggs are set and the biscuits are golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can top it with salsa or sausage gravy for added flavor.
Don't forget to serve hot and enjoy the ooey-gooey cheese and savory sausage amidst the flaky biscuits. Your breakfast casserole is now ready to satisfy your morning cravings!
Breakfast Casserole Overview
Now that you're familiar with the basics of biscuit breakfast casserole, let's take a closer look at the core components that make this dish so special.
You'll learn how the casserole structure comes together, from the foundation of biscuit dough to the layers of flavorful ingredients on top.
Casserole Structure
When building a biscuit breakfast casserole, you'll start with a sturdy foundation: a bottom layer of add-ins that sets the flavor tone for the entire dish. This layer can include cooked sausage, bell peppers, and various cheeses, allowing you to customize the flavors to your liking.
Here's a breakdown of the casserole structure:
- The bottom layer consists of add-ins that provide flavor and texture.
- The middle layer is the egg mixture poured over the add-ins.
- The top layer is the biscuit dough, which can be homemade or canned.
- You can pre-bake the biscuit topping for added flavor.
As you assemble the casserole, you'll pour the egg mixture over the add-ins in the casserole dish, followed by the biscuit topping. You can even prepare the breakfast casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
With these layers, you'll create a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole that's sure to please!
Layering Options
With a few simple layering options, you can customize your biscuit breakfast casserole to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. The key to a great casserole is building layers that complement each other. Start with a layer of savory add-ins like cooked sausage, bell peppers, and cheese. These add-ins not only add flavor but also texture to your casserole.
| Layer | Description |
|---|---|
| Savory Add-ins | Cooked sausage, bell peppers, cheese, and more |
| Eggs and Milk Mixture | 8-10 eggs, 1 cup milk, and a pinch of salt |
| Biscuit Topping | 16 oz refrigerated biscuits or homemade biscuits |
Next, pour the eggs and milk mixture over the add-ins, binding the layers together and creating a fluffy texture when baked. Finally, top it off with a layer of refrigerated biscuits or homemade biscuits. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, customized biscuit breakfast casserole on a busy morning.
Customizing With Add-Ins and Cheese
How do you want to elevate your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole, considering the array of add-ins and cheese options that can transform this dish into a personalized masterpiece?
When it comes to customizing, the possibilities are endless. You can add cooked crumbled sausage, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and fresh jalapeños to give your casserole a boost of flavor and texture.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Mix and match cheese options like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, smoked gouda, and feta.
- Add some heat with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.
Assembly and Baking the Casserole
Now that you've customized your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole with add-ins and cheese, it's time to assemble and bake this masterpiece.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Line the bottom of the dish with quartered biscuits, pressing them down firmly to create a stable base.
Next, cook and crumble 12 oz. of breakfast sausage in a skillet until browned, then scatter it evenly over the biscuits.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the egg mixture over the layered biscuits and sausage.
You can cover and refrigerate overnight if you prefer, or bake it immediately.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the biscuits are golden brown.
If the biscuits brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.
Your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole is now ready to be devoured!
Tips for Reheating and Freezing
Having prepared your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole, you're likely wondering how to reheat or freeze it for later enjoyment. To guarantee a delicious and safe meal, follow these helpful tips:
When reheating a refrigerated casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. For food safety, make sure the center reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
If you're freezing the casserole before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
When reheating a frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking for even cooking.
Individual portions can be frozen in airtight containers for easy reheating; simply microwave for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Avoid reheating the entire casserole in the microwave, as it can make the biscuits soggy; instead, use the oven for a crispier finish.
Bake frozen casseroles at the same temperature, increasing the baking time by 15-20 minutes.
Always use the oven for reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information and Serving
You'll be pleased to know that a serving of your freshly baked Biscuit Breakfast Casserole packs a nutritious punch, providing a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
With approximately 322 calories per serving, you'll get a boost of energy to start your day. Each serving includes around 19 grams of carbohydrates, 13 grams of protein, and 21 grams of fat, making it a satisfying and filling breakfast option.
As you savor each bite, you'll also be getting essential nutrients like Vitamin A, with 291 IU per serving, and Calcium, with 110 mg per serving.
However, it's worth noting that the casserole contains about 684 mg of sodium and 106 mg of cholesterol per serving, so those with dietary restrictions may want to take that into consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do You Serve With Breakfast Casserole?
When serving breakfast casserole, you'll want to balance rich flavors with invigorating sides. You can serve a fruit salad or light vinaigrette-based greens, and add a spicy kick with salsa or hot sauce.
How Many Days Can You Eat Breakfast Casserole?
Imagine having a delicious breakfast feast that lasts as long as a weekend getaway! You can enjoy your breakfast casserole for up to 2-3 days after baking, as long as you store it safely in the refrigerator.
What Is a Breakfast Casserole Made Of?
You're wondering what a breakfast casserole is made of? Typically, it's layered with meat, an egg mixture, and biscuit dough or shredded cheese, plus optional add-ins like veggies and customizable proteins to suit your taste!
What Goes Well With Biscuits for Breakfast?
"You think biscuits are boring for breakfast? Think again! You'll love them with savory sausage, crispy bacon, or ham, and even sweet fruit salad or creamy gravies – the perfect breakfast combo that'll start your day off right!"
Conclusion
As you sink your fork into the golden-brown biscuit breakfast casserole, the aroma of buttery biscuits, savory sausage, and scrambled eggs envelops you, transporting you to a cozy morning at grandma's house.
The first bite is like a warm hug on a chilly morning – comforting, familiar, and utterly satisfying.
With each successive bite, the flavors meld together, a symphony of comfort food that leaves you feeling full, content, and ready to take on the day.
