If you’re craving a hearty, comforting breakfast that brings the warmth of home right to your table, this Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining fluffy eggs, savory sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and soft, soaked bread, this dish is pure morning magic. It’s perfect for family gatherings, lazy weekend brunches, or even a special holiday breakfast. Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe has such a beloved place in Amish kitchens and beyond.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the rich, creamy eggs to the crispy-cooked sausage, everything comes together in a way that feels both effortless and satisfying.
- 8 slices of bread, cubed: Acts as the soft, absorbent base soaking up the egg custard and sausage flavors.
- 12 eggs: Essential for the fluffy custard that binds the casserole together with richness.
- 2 cups milk: Adds moisture and creaminess, making every bite velvety.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled: Brings a savory, spicy punch that complements the creamy eggs perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden goodness that tops and fills the dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for a well-seasoned casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: Gives a subtle tangy depth that brightens the savory notes.
How to Make Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly into a perfect golden brown finish.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs with milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, providing that luscious, creamy texture throughout.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in Your Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then start layering the cubed bread, the cooked and crumbled sausage, and the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering builds up beautiful pockets of flavor and texture.
Step 4: Pour and Press
Pour your egg custard mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. Gently press down the bread to help it soak up the custard. This step locks in moisture and makes each bite tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to trap the steam, then bake it for 30 minutes. This allows the eggs to set perfectly without drying out the top.
Step 6: Finish Baking Uncovered
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the inside is bubbly and cooked through.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it firm up just enough for nice slicing and ensures the hot cheese doesn’t burn your mouth!
How to Serve Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley add a lovely and colorful brightness to the rich casserole. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa for a fresh contrast.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines with simple sides such as fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon, or a light mixed greens salad to balance out the hearty richness. Fresh orange juice or a hot cup of coffee complements it perfectly to round out your breakfast meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins, creating fun single servings that are easy to handle. You might also top with sliced avocado or a drizzle of hot sauce for an exciting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully, making for quick and satisfying breakfasts during your busy week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling completely, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. Microwaving works too, but the oven will help maintain that lovely crispness on top.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a classic flavor, feel free to try mozzarella, Swiss, or even pepper jack for different tastes and textures.
Is it necessary to cook the sausage before adding it?
Yes, cooking the sausage first ensures it’s fully cooked and crumbly. It also releases fat that adds flavor but should be drained to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
How far ahead can I assemble this casserole?
You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it covered overnight. Just bake it fresh in the morning for convenience and the best texture.
What type of bread works best?
Sturdy breads like white sandwich bread, French bread, or even sourdough cubes absorb the custard well without getting too soggy, making them ideal for this recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe—its ease, comfort, and flavor come together so beautifully that it’s no wonder it has become a cherished staple for breakfasts everywhere. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy morning delight, this casserole will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your own home!
Print
Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Amish Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family brunch or a weekend breakfast. Featuring layers of cubed bread, savory breakfast sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is baked to golden perfection for a warm and satisfying meal that serves eight.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix egg base: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until fully combined and well blended.
- Layer ingredients: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then layer the cubed bread evenly, followed by the cooked and crumbled sausage, and then the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour egg mixture: Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese in the dish.
- Absorb mixture: Gently press down on the layers with a spatula to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture effectively.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to cook through.
- Uncover and brown: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Can be prepared the night before: assemble, cover, and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.
- Make sure the sausage is fully cooked and drained of excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
