This Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and filling dish that’s perfect for starting the day right! Made with eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread, it brings big smiles to breakfast time.
It’s super easy to throw together and just bakes in the oven while you sip your morning coffee. I love having leftovers for lunch—if there’s any left, that is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: I prefer using pork sausage for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works great, or you can go meatless with a veggie sausage for a delicious alternative.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs are key here for a fluffy texture. If you need an egg substitute, consider using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg, though it may slightly change the flavor.
Hashbrowns: Frozen hashbrowns are super convenient, but if you have fresh potatoes, you can peel, grate, and parboil them for the same effect! Sweet potatoes are a tasty twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its sharp and gooey melt. If you’re looking for something different, Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses adds a unique flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the bake just right is essential for this casserole. Follow these key steps:
- Cook the sausage well to avoid any raw bits. Browning adds more flavor!
- Layer ingredients evenly. This ensures even cooking and that every slice has a little bit of everything.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
- Let it cool for a bit to set before cutting. This helps it hold its shape when you serve it.
And don’t forget, garnishing with parsley not only adds color but a fresh taste to every bite!
How to Make Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound: breakfast sausage (pork sausage)
- 6 large: eggs
- 2 cups: milk
- 4 cups: frozen hashbrowns (shredded or diced potatoes)
- 1 cup: diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup: diced onion
- 2 cups: shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon: salt
- 1/2 teaspoon: black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon: garlic powder
- Fresh parsley: chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake it for 45–55 minutes. So overall, you should set aside about 1 hour for prep and cooking time—and it’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it to prevent the casserole from sticking later.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, using a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Once it’s cooked, drain any excess fat and set it aside for later.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is nicely combined. This will be the base of your casserole!
4. Layer the Hashbrowns:
Evenly layer the frozen hashbrowns at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This will provide a hearty base for all the delicious toppings.
5. Add the Sausage:
Now, spread the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of hashbrowns. Make sure it’s well-distributed so every bite has plenty of flavor!
6. Add the Veggies:
Sprinkle the diced red bell pepper and onion evenly over the sausage. This will add a nice crunch and a pop of color to your casserole.
7. Pour on the Eggs:
Next, pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish. This will bind everything together and make it deliciously fluffy.
8. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will melt beautifully as it bakes, creating a deliciously cheesy crust!
9. Bake:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
10. Bonus Eggs (Optional):
If you want to add a little flair, during the last 10 minutes of baking, you can crack 2–3 eggs on top, spacing them out. Bake until the egg whites are set, but the yolks can still be runny if that’s your style!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will help it set and make it easier to cut into squares.
12. Garnish:
Before serving, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for that lovely touch and extra flavor.
Enjoy this warm, cheesy, protein-packed Fireman’s Breakfast Casserole, perfect for feeding a hungry crew or just treating yourself to a hearty breakfast!
Can I Use A Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage or even a meatless option like veggie sausage. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly, no matter which type you choose.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it well. In the morning, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also reheats well in the microwave or oven—just cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them finely, and you can sauté some of them beforehand to enhance their flavors.
