English Muffin Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
for greasing the pan
- 6 plain English muffins
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound bulk hot or sweet breakfast sausage or Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
white and green parts, about 3 scallions
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- 12 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
lightly packed, about 8 ounces
Directions
- 1
Generously grease the bottom and sides of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter. Heat the oven to 350 degrees.
- 2
Cut the English muffins into 1-inch cubes. (Do not halve them horizontally as you would normally for the toaster.) Place the cubes on a sheet pan and bake until lightly toasted, 12 to 15 minutes.
- 3
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a medium or large skillet over medium-high. Add the sausage and scallions, a pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper and cook, breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon, until the sausage is evenly browned, 4 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- 4
Meanwhile, add the eggs, milk, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to large bowl; whisk to combine.
- 5
To assemble, sprinkle half of the sausage, then half of the cheese onto the bottom of the baking dish. Add the English muffin cubes on top in one even layer. Carefully pour the egg mixture into the pan, pressing down lightly to make sure all the bread is moistened. Top with remaining sausage and cheese. Wrap well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour up to overnight.
- 6
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the casserole until puffed and cooked through, about 40 minutes. (It may need a few more minutes, if your casserole has been in the refrigerator overnight.) Cool for 10 minutes, then cut into squares and serve.
English Muffin Breakfast Casserole
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About this Recipe
Craving a fuss-free, delicious breakfast that feels special without the early morning rush? This English Muffin Breakfast Casserole is your perfect solution, designed to make entertaining or family brunch effortless. This easy, make-ahead casserole transforms classic breakfast ingredients into a no-stress centerpiece.The genius of this casserole lies in its make-ahead convenience and the clever use of English muffins. Toasting the muffins beforehand is a key step, ensuring they properly absorb the rich egg mixture without becoming soggy, leading to a perfectly textured bite every time. It's a technique that sets this casserole apart from others, ensuring every forkful is perfectly balanced.Prepare for a comforting, savory breakfast experience with a delightful blend of textures. You'll savor the creamy, custardy eggs alongside savory breakfast sausage and the satisfying tang of sharp Cheddar cheese, all nestled around the hearty, slightly chewy English muffin pieces. It’s a substantial dish that will keep everyone satisfied, perfect for a leisurely morning gathering or a celebratory breakfast.The flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, creating a harmonious and hearty meal that feels both familiar and special.This English Muffin Breakfast Casserole is wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. You can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping the bulk hot or sweet breakfast or Italian sausage for a plant-based alternative, or simply omitting it entirely. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, though sharp Cheddar provides a classic, robust flavor that truly shines.This casserole is an ideal centerpiece for a holiday breakfast, a relaxed weekend brunch, or any morning when you want to impress without the last-minute stress. Serve it warm straight from the oven, perhaps with a side of fresh fruit for a complete meal.