A Sunday brunch casserole is the perfect dish to serve on a lazy weekend morning when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. This Sunday Brunch Casserole combines the comforting flavors of breakfast sausage, eggs, cheese, and vegetables into one delicious, easy-to-make meal. It’s the ultimate one-pan dish, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family meal. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply preparing a meal for your family, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup frozen hash browns
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Layer the hash browns in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, followed by the cooked sausage.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the hash browns and sausage. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting and serving. Enjoy your hearty Sunday brunch!

Nutrients

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

The Origin and Popularity of Brunch Casseroles

Brunch casseroles have become a popular choice for many hosts who want to serve a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Traditionally, a casserole is a dish that’s baked in one pan, usually combining various ingredients to create a complete meal. It can range from savory options like lasagna to sweet ones like French toast casseroles. The concept of a brunch casserole combines the convenience of a casserole with the classic flavors of breakfast.

Why Sunday Brunch Casserole Is a Favorite

There are many reasons why the Sunday Brunch Casserole stands out as a beloved dish for any brunch occasion. Here are a few reasons why it has earned its spot in kitchens all over the world:

1. Easy to Make

The simplicity of the Sunday Brunch Casserole is one of its greatest strengths. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can easily assemble the casserole and let the oven do the work. Whether you’re preparing it for a last-minute gathering or planning ahead, the casserole takes little effort to put together. The beauty of the casserole is that it can be customized to your liking with different proteins, cheeses, and vegetables.

2. Hearty and Filling

A well-made brunch casserole is a complete meal in one dish. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of eggs with savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and gooey melted cheese. This dish has everything you need to keep everyone satisfied, making it perfect for a mid-morning or afternoon meal. The combination of eggs and sausage provides plenty of protein, while the hash browns add a satisfying crunch and texture.

3. Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

Whether you’re hosting a family get-together, a casual brunch with friends, or a festive holiday meal, the Sunday Brunch Casserole is the perfect dish for serving a crowd. It’s easy to scale up, and you can make it in a large baking dish that can feed multiple people. Because it’s baked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze too. Just slice it up, serve it, and enjoy the company of your guests.

4. Versatility

Another reason the Sunday Brunch Casserole is a go-to for brunch is its versatility. The base recipe can be customized with a variety of add-ins to suit your personal tastes. You can swap out the sausage for bacon, ham, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack all work well. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Great for Make-Ahead Meals

One of the best things about the Sunday Brunch Casserole is that it can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. The next morning, all you have to do is pop it in the oven and bake it until golden and bubbly. This makes it ideal for busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook from scratch. It’s a great time-saver for families, holiday guests, or anyone who wants a hot meal without the hassle.

Healthier Options for Sunday Brunch Casserole

While the classic Sunday Brunch Casserole is indulgent and satisfying, there are several ways to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. By incorporating some simple swaps, you can create a lighter version of this dish:

• Use Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Instead of traditional pork sausage, opt for turkey or chicken sausage to reduce the fat content. These leaner options still provide a savory, flavorful punch to the casserole.
• Add More Vegetables: Adding extra vegetables not only boosts the nutritional value but also enhances the flavor of the casserole. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, onions, or even kale to make the dish more filling and colorful.
• Use Low-Fat Cheese: If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use reduced-fat cheese or a smaller amount of cheese to still enjoy the flavor without the extra fat.
• Swap Hash Browns for Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier carb option, you can replace regular hash browns with sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and antioxidants and provide a slightly different flavor that complements the other ingredients in the casserole.

Serving Suggestions for Sunday Brunch Casserole

To round out your Sunday brunch, here are a few delicious sides and drinks that pair wonderfully with the casserole:

• Fresh Fruit: A refreshing fruit salad is a perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. Choose seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a colorful and healthy addition to the meal.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole. Consider adding ingredients like mixed greens, cucumber, and avocado for extra texture.
• Homemade Biscuits or Muffins: Serve the casserole alongside freshly baked biscuits or muffins for a more traditional brunch experience. You can also serve some butter or jam on the side for an extra indulgence.
• Mimosas or Fresh Juice: For a festive touch, serve mimosas or freshly squeezed orange juice. The citrusy, bubbly drink is a brunch classic that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes.

Conclusion

The Sunday Brunch Casserole is a timeless dish that embodies comfort and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering, cooking for your family, or simply enjoying a lazy weekend morning, this casserole provides everything you need in one easy-to-make dish. Its versatility, heartiness, and ability to be prepared ahead of time make it a go-to for any occasion.