Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole
Highlighted under: Daily Meals
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and nothing beats a warm, filling Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole. It’s the perfect mix of crispy potatoes, savory veggies, and rich cheese that sets the tone for a great day ahead. I often prepare it on weekends when I have a little more time, and it never fails to impress my family. The best part is that you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy!
When I first made this Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare while still being utterly delicious. The combination of creamy eggs and crispy potatoes create a delightful texture that makes every bite enjoyable. I love experimenting with different toppings, from sautéed spinach to crispy bacon, and this versatility never ceases to excite my breakfast gatherings.
One tip I’ve learned to make this casserole even better is to lightly par-cook the potatoes before assembling. This ensures that they are perfectly tender and soak up all the wonderful flavors from the other ingredients. Trust me, this small step makes a huge difference in the final dish!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying for a fulfilling start to your day
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins
- Perfect for serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week
The Perfect Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes is crucial for achieving the right texture in your casserole. Russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy interior, which contrasts beautifully with the crispy edges. When par-cooking, aim for fork-tender, about 8-10 minutes in boiling water. This step ensures they are fully cooked but still hold their shape during baking, preventing a mushy casserole.
If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, sweet potatoes can be substituted. They offer a slight sweetness and additional nutrients, enhancing the casserole's flavor profile. Just be mindful that they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their density.
Layering for Flavor
When assembling your casserole, layer thoughtfully. Start with the potatoes at the base to create a sturdy foundation. Follow with sautéed vegetables for a burst of color and flavor. The bell pepper and onion not only bring sweetness but also add moisture, keeping the dish from drying out during baking. Make sure to spread them evenly for consistent flavor distribution.
Don’t forget the cheese! Cheddar provides a sharpness that complements the mild potatoes and rich egg mixture. For a gourmet twist, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. Just remember to adjust the amount to keep the texture creamy and not too oily.
Customizing Your Casserole
One of the best aspects of this casserole is its versatility. You can easily incorporate different proteins or vegetables based on your preferences. Consider adding cooked sausage, ham, or tofu for added protein. If you opt for vegetables, spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini would all be fantastic choices, just be sure to chop them finely to ensure they cook through.
If you're meal-prepping, this casserole stores well in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it before baking, covered tightly with foil. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This makes it a fantastic option for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients to make your casserole delicious!
Casserole Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: cooked bacon, fresh herbs, or additional cheese
Make sure to mix everything well for an even bake.
Instructions
Follow these steps for a perfect casserole!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Potatoes
In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes for about 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add the bell pepper and onion, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
Mix the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
In the greased baking dish, layer the par-cooked potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and sprinkle the cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious casserole with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add any favorite breakfast meats or extra vegetables to dial up the flavor and nutrition. This casserole also freezes well for future meals!
Tips for Perfect Baking
To ensure your casserole bakes evenly, spread the ingredients in a single, even layer before pouring the egg mixture on top. This allows the eggs to envelop everything thoroughly, resulting in a cohesive and well-baked dish. Keep an eye on it while baking; when the center is set and the top is golden brown, it’s time to take it out.
If you find the edges browning too quickly while the center is still jiggly, tent the casserole with a piece of aluminum foil. This will protect the edges while allowing the rest to catch up. Remember, it should have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven, as it will continue to firm up while resting.
Serving Suggestions
Once your casserole has rested, cut it into squares and serve hot. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal or topping it with your favorite salsa, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and creaminess. These toppings elevate the dish, bringing additional textures and flavors.
For a more festive presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile, making this hearty breakfast dish visually appealing and utterly delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns work great for this recipe and save you prep time.
→ How can I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the meat, and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor.
→ Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Just assemble it as directed, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning for a fresh breakfast.
→ What can I substitute for cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor.
Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and nothing beats a warm, filling Baked Breakfast Potato Casserole. It’s the perfect mix of crispy potatoes, savory veggies, and rich cheese that sets the tone for a great day ahead. I often prepare it on weekends when I have a little more time, and it never fails to impress my family. The best part is that you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy!
Created by: Belinda Fraser
Recipe Type: Daily Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Casserole Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional toppings: cooked bacon, fresh herbs, or additional cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes for about 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add the bell pepper and onion, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In the greased baking dish, layer the par-cooked potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and sprinkle the cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Once done, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add any favorite breakfast meats or extra vegetables to dial up the flavor and nutrition. This casserole also freezes well for future meals!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 14g