Harper West
Breakfast casseroles are a hearty and tasty meal, perfect for feeding a crowd. They are incredibly versatile and can be made with a variety of ingredients, including eggs, cream of mushroom soup, sausage, bacon, and bread. The basic recipe involves beating together eggs, milk, and soup, and then pouring this mixture over meat and bread cubes in a baking dish. The casserole is then baked in the oven until the eggs are set and the top is golden. Breakfast casseroles can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, making them a convenient option for entertaining or special occasions. They can also be customised with various ingredients, such as vegetables, cheese, and spices, to suit individual tastes and preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of dish | Breakfast Casserole |
| Main ingredients | Eggs, cream of mushroom soup, bread, milk, cheese, meat (sausage, bacon or ham) |
| Additional ingredients | Spices (mustard powder, onion salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder), vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, onion), herbs (parsley, basil) |
| Preparation time | 10 minutes |
| Refrigeration time | Minimum 3 hours to overnight |
| Baking temperature | 300°F to 400°F |
| Baking time | 30 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4-10 |
| Storage | Can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months |
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What You'll Learn
Preparation and cooking time
The preparation time for a breakfast casserole with eggs and cream of mushroom soup can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, most recipes require similar preparation steps, including greasing a baking dish, preparing the filling, assembling the casserole, and refrigerating it before baking. Here is a detailed breakdown of the preparation and cooking time:
Greasing the Baking Dish:
Start by greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. You can use butter, cooking spray, or oil to grease the dish. This step ensures that the casserole doesn't stick to the dish and makes it easier to serve.
Preparing the Filling:
Most recipes call for cooking sausage or bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease after cooking. You may also want to cook vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or mushrooms, at this stage.
Assembling the Casserole:
Spread bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. You can use white sandwich bread or a heartier option like toasted sourdough, cut into small cubes or slices. Sprinkle the cooked sausage or bacon over the bread, followed by shredded cheese. Some recipes suggest whisking together the eggs, milk, and seasonings separately before pouring the mixture over the bread and meat. Others recommend simply pouring the cream of mushroom soup directly over the layers and stirring everything together.
Refrigerating the Casserole:
Cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step allows the eggs to soak into the bread and enhances the flavor. If you're short on time, you can bake the casserole after 30 minutes of refrigeration, but the longer it sits, the more the flavors will develop.
Baking the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to a temperature between 325°F and 400°F, depending on the recipe. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature. Bake the casserole for approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour, until the top is golden and the eggs are set. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Serving and Storing:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or scallions. If you have any leftovers, cover and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Reheat the leftovers in the oven or microwave before serving again.
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Ingredients and measurements
The ingredients and their measurements for a breakfast casserole with cream of mushroom soup and eggs can vary depending on the recipe and individual preferences. Here is a list of common ingredients and their measurements for a casserole that serves around 8 to 10 people:
Meat:
1 pound of Italian pork sausage, either hot or sweet. You can also use mild breakfast sausage or bacon.
Vegetables:
- 1 large red bell pepper, diced (optional).
- Mushrooms (optional).
- Onions or garlic, either fresh or in powder form.
- Spinach, bell pepper, or other vegetables of your choice.
Bread:
6 slices of white bread, preferably toasted and cut into cubes (around 6 cups).
Cheese:
1 to 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. You can also use Swiss cheese, Gouda, or extra sharp cheddar.
Eggs:
6 to 8 large eggs.
Dairy:
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups of milk, preferably whole milk.
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk (optional).
Condiments and Spices:
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed cream of mushroom soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard or mustard powder.
- Onion salt or powder.
- Black pepper and cayenne pepper.
- Italian herbs (optional).
- Salt to taste.
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional).
- Avocado or cilantro (optional).
- Salsa (optional).
You can also add other ingredients such as frozen hash browns, tater tots, or halved grape tomatoes. Adjust the measurements based on your preferences and the number of servings.
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Method and instructions
Preparation:
First, gather and prepare your ingredients. For a basic breakfast casserole, you will need eggs, milk, cream of mushroom soup, bread, and cheese. You can use any type of bread you prefer, but it's recommended to cut it into small cubes or pieces (about 1/2" to 1" in size). You can also choose your favourite type of cheese and grate or shred it.
Assembly:
Grease a baking dish, a 9x13-inch dish is a common size used. Spread the bread cubes into the prepared dish, covering the bottom evenly.
If you're using meat such as sausage or bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium-high heat until it's cooked through and browned. Drain any excess grease, then spread the meat over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
In a separate bowl, whisk or beat together the eggs, milk, and any desired spices or seasonings. You can add salt, pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs like Italian seasoning. Pour this egg mixture over the meat and bread in the baking dish.
Next, sprinkle shredded cheese over the sausage and egg layers. You can use cheddar, Swiss, Gouda, or any cheese of your choice.
Finally, stir together the cream of mushroom soup and a small amount of milk (about 1/2 cup) in a separate bowl. You can also add minced garlic and black pepper to taste. Pour this soup mixture evenly over the entire casserole.
Refrigeration and Baking:
Cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight. This step allows the eggs to soak into the bread and enhances the flavour.
When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven to a temperature between 325°F and 400°F, depending on your oven and the desired cooking time. Place the casserole on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow.
Bake the casserole for about 40 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden and the centre is set. To check if it's done, insert a knife into the centre; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley over the top, then cut into individual servings and enjoy!
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and combinations. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or onions. You can also try different types of meat or make it vegetarian. This breakfast casserole is versatile and can be tailored to your tastes!
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Serving suggestions
This breakfast casserole is a hearty and delicious meal that can be served in a few different ways. Firstly, it is important to note that this dish is quite versatile and can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or special occasions. The casserole can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the egg mixture to fully incorporate with the bread. This makes it a great choice for those who like to prepare meals in advance.
When serving this casserole, it is best enjoyed straight out of the oven when it is still warm and fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for up to two days. To serve a crowd or for a buffet-style meal, the casserole can be cut into individual servings, wrapped in plastic wrap, and then placed in a freezer bag. These frozen servings can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave whenever needed.
For a complete breakfast meal, consider serving the casserole with a side of fresh fruit, such as a winter fruit salad, to balance out the heartiness of the dish. This can also add a refreshing and healthy touch to the meal. Additionally, as the casserole is quite rich, serving it with a light and crisp green salad can provide a nice contrast in textures and flavours.
To customise the dish to your taste preferences, you can add various toppings or mix-ins. For instance, sprinkling diced green and red bell peppers over the top just before serving can add a colourful and tasty touch, especially if you're looking for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as extra sharp cheddar, or adding mushrooms to enhance the flavour.
Lastly, as this casserole is often associated with Kansas flavours and Christmas mornings, you can create a themed breakfast spread by pairing it with other classic dishes or beverages that complement its savoury and comforting taste. Whether served as a casual weekday breakfast or a special occasion meal, this casserole is a versatile and satisfying option that can be tailored to your preferences.
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Storage and reheating
When preparing a breakfast casserole with cream of mushroom soup, it is important to note the different storage guidelines and reheating instructions to ensure optimal taste and food safety. Here is a comprehensive guide on storage and reheating:
Storage
Breakfast casseroles can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer before baking. If you plan to bake the casserole within 24 hours, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator. Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours or overnight. This step allows the egg mixture to fully incorporate with the bread, enhancing the texture and flavour.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap the fully assembled casserole (excluding the mushroom soup) with a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil. It is important to note that the casserole should not be baked before freezing.
Reheating
For refrigerated casseroles, follow the baking instructions provided in your chosen recipe. If you have frozen your casserole, allow it to thaw completely before removing the plastic wrap and foil. Then, bake the casserole according to the original instructions until the centre is set and the top is golden brown.
Reheating leftover casseroles is also an option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 to 2 days in the refrigerator. When ready to reheat, it is recommended to use an oven set to 300°F until warmed through. While microwaving is an option, it is generally not recommended as it may affect the texture and taste of the casserole.
Remember, breakfast casseroles are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but proper storage and reheating can still result in a delicious meal.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need eggs, cream of mushroom soup, milk, bread, cheese, and bacon or sausage. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach.
The casserole needs to be refrigerated for at least 3 hours or overnight before baking. The baking time will depend on the recipe, but it typically takes around 40 to 60 minutes.
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Wrap it with plastic wrap and foil and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw the casserole, and then follow the original baking instructions.
