The smell of sizzling sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs is exciting. It gets everyone ready for the day. As a busy parent, finding a quick and tasty breakfast is a challenge. That’s why the Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for me. It’s simple to make, can be tailored to your taste, and everyone loves it.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy breakfast casserole recipe using Jimmy Dean sausage
- Serves 6-12 people, perfect for weekend brunch or holiday gatherings
- Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking
- Customizable with a variety of ingredient options
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to three days
Why This Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole Is Perfect for Your Morning
Start your day with this tasty Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole. It’s easy to make and saves time. Plus, it’s loved by everyone, making it perfect for your morning meal.
Time-Saving Benefits
This recipe is quick to make. It uses pre-cooked Jimmy Dean sausage crumbles. This saves you time in the kitchen.
You can quickly put the casserole together. Then, just pop it in the oven.
Crowd-Pleasing Features
This casserole is a hit with everyone. It can feed 6-12 people, depending on how much you serve. It’s great for holiday breakfasts, like Christmas and Easter.
Imagine waking up to a delicious meal. It’s perfect for your family or guests.
Make-Ahead Convenience
This recipe is also great because you can make it ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. Then, just bake it in the morning.
This way, you can enjoy a hot breakfast without morning prep. Just relax and let the oven work for you.
This Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole is ideal for starting your day. It’s quick, loved by all, and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Essential Ingredients for Your Breakfast Casserole
Making a tasty Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need Jimmy Dean pork sausage, fresh eggs, milk, and bread or biscuits. Don’t forget shredded cheese. Adding veggies, herbs, and spices can make it even better.
Start with 16-ounce Jimmy Dean pork sausage or 8 ounces of pre-cooked crumbles. Whisk 6-12 large eggs with 2-3 cups of milk for the egg mixture. Use 6-8 slices of white bread or 1 can of Grands! Biscuits to line the dish. Finally, top it with 2-4 cups of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella cheese.
To add color and nutrients, think about diced tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, and chopped green onions. Fire-roasted green chiles are also great. Seasonings like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder can make it taste even better.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jimmy Dean Pork Sausage | 16 oz package or 8 oz pre-cooked crumbles |
| Large Eggs | 6-12 |
| Milk | 2-3 cups |
| Bread or Biscuits | 6-8 slices white bread or 1 can Grands! Biscuits |
| Shredded Cheese | 2-4 cups (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella) |
| Optional Veggies | Tomatoes, mushrooms, green onions, green chiles |
| Seasonings | Salt, pepper, dry mustard, paprika, oregano, garlic powder |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole. It’s sure to please your family and friends.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make this tasty Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A 9×13 baking dish is key, as it serves 8-10 people well. You’ll also need a large skillet for the breakfast sausage. A mixing bowl and whisk are handy for mixing the egg and milk.
Required Baking Dishes
- 9×13-inch baking dish
Helpful Utensils
- Large skillet for cooking sausage
- Mixing bowl for preparing egg mixture
- Whisk for blending the eggs and milk
- Grater for shredding cheese
Optional Equipment
Some extra items can make preparing your casserole easier. Use aluminum foil to cover the dish while it bakes. Also, cooking spray helps the dish come out of the pan without a fight.
“The right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, transforming a dish from good to great.”
Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole Instructions
Making a tasty Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole is simple. Follow these steps to create a dish that everyone will love. We’ll cover layering ingredients, egg mixture, and baking instructions for a perfect casserole every time.
Step-by-Step
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and gets a nice golden brown top.
- If your sausage is raw, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain any extra fat and set it aside.
- Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the casserole from sticking.
- Place pieces of bread or biscuits at the bottom of the dish. They’ll be the base of your casserole.
- On top of the bread, add the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and any veggies like diced bell peppers or onions.
- In another bowl, mix 12 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the dish, making sure it’s spread evenly.
- If you’re making the casserole ahead of time, cover it and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just take it out of the fridge.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 50-60 minutes. It’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape better.
With these steps, you’ll have a delicious Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole ready to enjoy. It’s perfect for brunch or a weekday breakfast, and it’s sure to impress.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage | 1 lb. |
| Large Eggs | 12 |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 8 oz. |
This Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe is a hit, with 5 stars from 242 reviews and over 280,288 shares. People love how easy it is to make, how much everyone enjoys it, and how convenient it is to make ahead.
“This breakfast casserole is a game-changer! It’s so easy to prepare and always turns out delicious. I love that I can make it ahead of time and just pop it in the oven in the morning.”
Preparation and Cooking Time Details
Making this tasty Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole is easy. It only takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, it bakes in the oven for 55-65 minutes. This time can vary based on your oven and the recipe you choose.
Prep Time Breakdown
- Cooking the Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage: 5-7 minutes
- Chopping and measuring other ingredients: 8-10 minutes
- Assembling the casserole: 2-3 minutes
Cooking Duration Guidelines
The baking time for the Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole can vary. It’s between 55 to 65 minutes. This depends on the recipe, if it’s been chilled overnight, and your oven’s temperature.
Always check the casserole with a meat thermometer. It should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Total Time Investment
The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 20 minutes for the quick version. For the overnight version, it’s up to 9 hours and 15 minutes. This includes 8 hours of chilling time.
If you’ve chilled the casserole overnight, you might need to adjust the baking time.
Customization Options and Variations
This Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole is super versatile. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Vegetable Additions: Add some sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition. These veggies can make the dish taste and feel better.
Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella instead of sharp cheddar. This lets you control the flavor.
Biscuit Crust Option: Use Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits for a flaky crust. Press them into the dish, then add the rest of the ingredients. It’s a tasty twist.
For a bigger meal, swap the pre-cooked sausage for fresh sausage. Add some hot sauce or salsa for extra flavor.
For a homemade biscuit crust, cook the dough a bit before adding it. This makes the biscuits tender and flaky.
Customizing this casserole is all about creativity. Try different veggies, cheeses, and crusts to make it your own.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole right is key. It keeps your dish safe and tasty for days. Just follow these easy steps to enjoy your leftovers.
Proper Storage Methods
First, put your leftover casserole in an airtight container. Then, chill it in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months.
To freeze, divide the casserole into portions. Wrap each portion in plastic or foil. Then, put them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, the microwave is your best bet. Cut the casserole into smaller pieces for even heating. Heat the portions for 1-2 minutes, until they’re warm.
Try to eat refrigerated leftovers within 3-4 days. If frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the casserole’s texture and taste better.
By storing and reheating your casserole correctly, you can enjoy it for a long time. Always keep food safety in mind to keep your casserole delicious and safe to eat.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Casserole
To make your Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole perfect, focus on the details. A few expert tips can make your dish both delicious and visually appealing. Here are some valuable insights to help you create a morning masterpiece.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your milk and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This step ensures a smooth batter and an evenly cooked casserole.
- Grate Cheese Freshly: Grate your cheese just before adding it to the casserole. Freshly grated cheese melts better, giving you that perfect gooey texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it can have additives that affect the taste.
- Tent with Foil: If the top of your casserole browns too fast, cover it with foil. This prevents overcooking while letting the center cook fully.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to blend and the casserole to set, making it easier to slice.
- Adjust Baking Time: For make-ahead versions, take the casserole out of the fridge while the oven heats up. This ensures it cooks evenly and quickly.
By using these casserole tips and baking advice, you’ll enhance the flavor enhancement of your Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole. It will become a crowd-pleasing morning dish. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Conclusion
The Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole is a great choice for weekends, holidays, or big gatherings. It’s easy to make and packed with protein, carbs, and veggies. It’s perfect for Christmas, Easter, or just a lazy weekend.
This casserole is loved by many because you can change it up to fit your taste. It’s also easy to make ahead, making it a favorite for families. It’s a tasty and healthy way to start your day.
So, invite your family over, turn on the oven, and enjoy this classic dish. The Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole is a wonderful family-friendly meal for your holiday tradition.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole recipe?
The main ingredients are Jimmy Dean pork sausage, eggs, and milk. You’ll also need bread or biscuits, shredded cheese, and optional veggies like tomatoes and mushrooms. Don’t forget the seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How many people does this breakfast casserole serve?
This recipe makes 6-12 servings. It’s great for weekend brunches or holiday meals.
Can this casserole be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep it the night before. Then, bake it in the morning for a convenient start.
What is the total time investment for this recipe?
It takes about 1 hour 20 minutes for the quick version. The overnight version takes 9 hours 15 minutes, including 8 hours of chilling.
What baking dish is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish for this casserole.
Can this casserole be customized or varied?
Yes, you can add different veggies, change the cheese, or use Grands! Biscuits. You can also swap in Jimmy Dean pre-cooked sausage crumbles.
How should leftover casserole be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2 months. Reheat by cutting into smaller pieces for even heating in the microwave.
What tips are recommended for achieving the perfect Jimmy Dean Breakfast Casserole?
Use room temperature milk and grate cheese fresh. Cover with foil if the top browns too fast. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.