Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of savory sausage and melted cheese wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. The Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole has a way of transporting me to those cherished family brunches, where laughter mingles with the cheerful clatter of plates. This heartwarming dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of cozy mornings, with layers of fluffy eggs, crispy hash browns, and the richness of cheese that beckon everyone to the table. What I love most about this breakfast casserole is its adaptability—whether you need a gluten-free option or a vegetarian twist, it effortlessly caters to every craving. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead choice for busy mornings! Curious about how this comforting recipe can become your new go-to for brunch gatherings? Let’s dive into the details! Why is Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole a Must-Try? Comforting flavors come together in this hearty dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends. Easy to customize, you can easily swap ingredients like turkey sausage or even opt for a vegetarian version using plant-based alternatives. Make-ahead convenience allows you to prep it the night before, saving you valuable time in the morning. Satisfying textures, with crispy hash browns and gooey melted cheese, create a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, it’s sure to impress your guests, making it a rewarding addition to your cooking repertoire! Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Ingredients • Dive into the comforting world of the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole that becomes the centerpiece of any gathering! For the Casserole Breakfast Sausage – Adds savory depth and protein; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option. Green Onions – Provide a mild flavor and vibrant color; chives can be a crunchy alternative. Red Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and brightness; yellow or orange peppers work well too. Eggs – Bind the dish together with richness; consider using egg whites for a lighter choice. Heavy Cream – Contributes to a creamy texture; half-and-half can lighten things up. Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy flavor that elevates the taste; yellow mustard is a simple substitute. Tabasco – Optional heat to awaken the flavors; hot sauce or cayenne pepper can be used instead. Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; sea salt and freshly cracked pepper shine here. Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully, providing core flavor; go for block cheese for the best melt. Frozen Shredded Hash Browns – Serves as a crispy base; feel free to use freshly grated potatoes if you prefer. Expert Addition Optional Toppings – Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a pop of color and freshness; consider a sprinkle of extra cheese for indulgence! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and generously spray it with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent the delicious layers of your Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole from sticking and ensure effortless serving later on. Step 2: Sauté the Ingredients In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes. Add in diced red bell pepper and green onions, stirring periodically until the sausage is browned and the veggies are tender. This combination will create the savory base for your casserole, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas. Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, crack 8 eggs and whisk them together with 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, a few dashes of Tabasco, and season with salt and black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined, creating a creamy texture that will bind all your ingredients together in the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole. Step 4: Combine All Ingredients Once your sausage mixture has cooled slightly, stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 4 cups of frozen shredded hash browns into the egg mixture. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. This is where the magic begins as you prepare to pour your hearty filling into the baking dish. Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This helps ensure that every bite of your Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is packed with flavor and texture. Smooth the top with a spatula and prepare for baking, anticipating the delicious results ahead. Step 6: Bake Covered Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 50 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully together. The casserole will puff up and set during this time, filling the kitchen with a wonderful, mouthwatering aroma. Step 7: Add Cheese & Finish Baking After 50 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle an additional 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. This step adds a final touch of cheesy goodness to your breakfast creation. Step 8: Rest & Serve Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut into squares. Garnish with slices of green onion for a burst of color and flavor, and enjoy the delightful comfort of your Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole with family and friends! Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this comforting dish that invites delicious adaptations to suit your taste! Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free hash browns or use shredded sweet potatoes for a crisp base. Vegetarian: Swap out the sausage for plant-based alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting meal. Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños and cumin to give your casserole a vibrant, Mexican flair that adds heat and flavor. Low-Carb: Replace hash browns with riced cauliflower to enjoy a healthier, low-carb version of this beloved dish. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack for a wonderful kick or feta for a Mediterranean twist. Each cheese brings its own character, making every bite unique! Herbs and Greens: Mix in fresh spinach or kale before baking for extra nutrition and a pop of color that brightens up the casserole. Breakfast Meat Lovers: For an extra protein-packed punch, add diced ham or bacon along with the sausage for a flavorful medley. Sweet Touch: Drizzle maple syrup or honey over the top just before serving for a delightful sweet-and-savory combo that surprises the palate! If you’re looking for more delightful breakfast ideas, consider trying out my Bagel Breakfast Sliders or a hearty Skillet Breakfast Hash! Enjoy experimenting and discover what makes this breakfast casserole your own family favorite! Make Ahead Options The Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is an ideal recipe for busy cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead by combining all the ingredients and assembling it in the baking dish. Just cover it tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. To maintain quality, ensure your hash browns are completely thawed to prevent excess moisture. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the fridge, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors and textures with minimal effort, making your brunch gathering a stress-free delight! How to Store and Freeze Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow the casserole to cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: To freeze, cut the casserole into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: Reheat frozen portions in the microwave or oven. For the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. Ensure it’s warm all the way to the center. Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole the night before and store it in the fridge unbaked. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven for a delicious, hassle-free breakfast! What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole? As you gather around the breakfast table, let’s turn your cozy Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole into a delightful feast with these comforting pairings. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole, balancing flavors wonderfully. Crispy Bacon Strips: The salty, savory crunch of bacon is a classic complement, infusing each bite with extra indulgence. It’s a crowd-pleaser for those who crave that deliciously smoky flavor. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on crusty bread offers a satisfying texture and a healthy twist, appealing to those looking for lighter options. Buttery Croissants: Flaky, buttery croissants are perfect for mopping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate. Their light texture contrasts beautifully with the hearty casserole. Spinach Salad: Tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, this vibrant salad brings in fresh greens and zest, balancing the meal with a touch of brightness. Mimosas or Bloody Marys: Toast your gathering with mimosas, blending sparkling wine with fresh orange juice, or opt for a spicy Bloody Mary to add a kick. Both drinks enhance the brunch atmosphere. Sweet Cinnamon Rolls: For a touch of sweetness, serve warm cinnamon rolls drizzled with icing, inviting those with a sweet tooth to indulge in the perfect brunch treat. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs can add an extra dimension of comfort, making your brunch feel extra special. Yogurt Parfaits: Layers of yogurt, granola, and berries create a light and healthy option that’s visually appealing and tasty, great for balance with the savory casserole. Coffee or Herbal Tea: Warm beverages like freshly brewed coffee or calming herbal tea tie the meal together, inviting everyone to relax and enjoy the moment. Expert Tips for Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Thaw Hash Browns: Ensure your frozen hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which can make it soggy. Cook Evenly: Sauté the sausage and vegetables over medium-high heat; this helps retain juiciness and ensures everything is cooked evenly. Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate some cheese directly into the casserole mixture for a more uniformly delicious flavor throughout the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole. Prep Ahead: Consider preparing the casserole the night before; this makes for an easy and stress-free morning bake that’s perfect for busy days. Test for Doneness: Always check that the casserole is set in the center before serving; a knife inserted should come out clean, confirming it’s cooked through. Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for this casserole? Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, look for sausages that are firm and well-packaged, with no signs of discoloration. For the red bell pepper, pick ones that are vibrant and shiny, with no dark spots. Fresh green onions should be crisp and green, not wilted. Selecting quality ingredients ensures your Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is as delicious as possible! What is the best method for storing leftovers? Very easy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool completely before sealing it up to maintain the best texture and flavor. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving; it’ll taste almost as good as fresh! Can I freeze the Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole? Definitely! To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely after baking, then slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat from frozen; if in the oven, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. What should I do if my casserole is too watery? No worries! If you find your casserole is too watery, it’s likely due to excess moisture from thawed hash browns. To prevent this, always ensure the hash browns are completely thawed and drained before using them. If you’re stuck with a watery batch, you can add extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top before the final bake to help absorb some moisture. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Certainly! This Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole can be easily adapted for various dietary requirements. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free hash browns, and for a vegetarian twist, swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative. Always check labels for allergens and make sure your substitutions meet your dietary needs; it’s all about making it work for you! Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking the night before. Cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pop it in the preheated oven; this makes it a fantastic option for hassle-free brunch gatherings! Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole for Cozy Brunch Gatherings The Pioneer Woman Breakfast Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for brunch with savory sausage, melted cheese, and the option for customization. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrResting Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole1 pound Breakfast Sausage or substitute with ground turkey2 tablespoons Green Onions or chives can be a crunchy alternative1 medium Red Bell Pepper or use yellow or orange peppers8 large Eggs or consider using egg whites1 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half for a lighter option2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard or yellow mustard as a substitutedash Tabasco or hot sauce/cayenne pepper for optional heatto taste Salt sea salt recommendedto taste Black Pepper freshly cracked recommended3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese or go for block cheese for the best melt4 cups Frozen Shredded Hash Browns or freshly grated potatoesOptional Toppingsto taste Fresh Herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnishto taste Extra Cheese for indulgence Equipment 9x13-inch baking dishLarge Skilletmixing bowlWhisk Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.Cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes. Add diced red bell pepper and green onions and stir until sausage is browned and veggies are tender.In a mixing bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, a few dashes of Tabasco, and season with salt and black pepper.Stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 4 cups of frozen shredded hash browns into the egg mixture.Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 50 minutes.After 50 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese on top, increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C), and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes.Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving, garnishing with green onion slices. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 18gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can prepare the casserole the night before for a hassle-free breakfast. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
