I love the comforting flavors of a classic breakfast casserole. Growing up, the smell of sizzling sausage and melted cheese filled our home. It was a sign of a family-filled day ahead.
Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is a true Southern breakfast. It takes me back to those special mornings.
This dish is a staple in Southern homes. It’s more than just food; it brings families together. It nourishes both body and soul.
Key Takeaways
- Paula Deen’s breakfast casserole is a beloved Southern classic featuring hash browns, cheese, and a variety of savory ingredients.
- The recipe combines the comfort of cheesy eggs, sausage, and golden hash browns for a hearty and satisfying Southern-style breakfast.
- This casserole is perfect for family brunches, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion where you want to indulge in a taste of the South.
- The recipe can be customized to suit your personal preferences, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
- With make-ahead and freezing options, you can easily prepare this casserole in advance, making it a convenient and hassle-free breakfast option.
Introduction to Southern paula deen breakfast casserole
Southern cuisine is all about comfort food, and breakfast casseroles are at the top of the list. These dishes, made famous by Paula Deen, are loved for their warmth and taste. They’re a favorite in many homes across the South.
The Legacy of paula deen breakfast casserole Cooking
Paula Deen, a legendary Southern chef, is known for her delicious recipes. Her dishes, like chicken and waffles and pecan pie, have won many fans. Her breakfast casseroles are especially cherished, showing off the rich tastes and cozy textures that have made her famous.
Why Breakfast Casseroles Are a Southern Staple
Breakfast casseroles are a big part of Southern cuisine for good reasons. They can be a main dish, a side, or even a snack, making them perfect for any time. They’re also great for feeding lots of people, which is common in the South’s close-knit communities.
“Breakfast casseroles are the perfect way to bring family and friends together, with their comforting flavors and ability to feed a crowd. They’re a true celebration of the Southern cuisine we all know and love.”
– *Paula Deen, renowned Southern chef and author*
Essential Ingredients for Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole
To make Paula Deen’s breakfast casserole, start with frozen shredded hash browns. They form the base of your dish. Next, add a lot of reduced-fat shredded cheese, like cheddar or a blend.
For the creamy sauce, use 98% fat-free cream of celery soup. Mix in a light butter substitute, nonfat plain Greek yogurt, and light sour cream. Add chopped onion and garlic powder for extra flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For more structure and protein, beat a couple of eggs. Top it with low-point potato chips for a crunchy finish.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Frozen shredded hash browns | 2 (20 oz) packages |
| Reduced-fat shredded cheese (cheddar or blend) | 1-1/2 cups |
| Light butter substitute | 2 tablespoons |
| Nonfat plain Greek yogurt | 1/2 cup |
| Light sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| 98% fat-free cream of celery soup | 1 (10.75 oz) can |
| Onion, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Beaten eggs (optional) | 2 |
| Low-point potato chips | 1 cup, crushed |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a tasty Paula Deen-inspired breakfast casserole. It’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the tasty Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A medium-sized baking dish is key for baking it right. A small skillet is great for cooking the onions. And, mixing bowls help mix all the ingredients well.
Recommended Casserole Dishes
For the baking dish, an oval or rectangular one, 10″ to 12″ in size, is best. This size ensures even baking and fits all the ingredients. You can also use a square or round dish, as long as it’s the right size.
Additional Kitchen Essentials
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate portioning
- Rubber spatulas or wooden spoons for stirring and mixing
- A sharp knife for chopping any additional ingredients
- Cutting board for prepping vegetables or other toppings
- Oven mitts to safely handle the hot baking dish
With these kitchen tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole at home.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole is easy and fun. It’s a Southern classic that you can make at home. Just follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a skillet, sauté chopped onions in melted butter substitute until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the onions, eggs, milk, hash browns, cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Put the casserole mixture into the prepared dish.
- Top it with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs for a crunchy layer.
- Bake in the oven for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
By following these easy casserole preparation and cooking instructions, you’ll have a tasty Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole. It’s perfect for sharing with your loved ones. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this Southern classic!
The Perfect Hash Brown Base
The hash brown base is key in making the ultimate Paula Deen breakfast casserole. Use frozen hash browns for ease, but thaw them well before adding to the dish. This ensures they cook evenly and get crispy.
Tips for Thawing Frozen Hash Browns
- Put the frozen hash browns in the fridge a day before to thaw slowly.
- For quicker thawing, place them at room temperature for 2-3 hours or in the microwave on defrost.
- Don’t let the hash browns sit out too long to avoid them getting soggy.
Achieving the Right Texture
After thawing, coat the hash browns well with the casserole mix. Mix them gently with eggs, milk, and seasonings. This helps get a crispy outside and fluffy inside. Don’t overmix to avoid a dense texture.
Follow these tips to make a Paula Deen breakfast casserole with a delicious hash brown base. Your guests will surely ask for more.
Creating the Creamy Sauce Base
The secret to a delicious creamy casserole is in the sauce base. Paula Deen’s famous breakfast casserole uses Greek yogurt and sour cream. These ingredients make the sauce smooth and velvety, covering all the other flavors.
Start by mixing nonfat plain Greek yogurt and light sour cream in a bowl. Add a can of 98% fat-free cream of celery soup. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Be careful with the heat when making the sauce. If it gets too hot, the Greek yogurt might break down. Warm it slowly over low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s warm but not boiling.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Nonfat plain Greek yogurt | 1 cup |
| Light sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| 98% fat-free cream of celery soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
Now that the sauce base is ready, you can layer it with other ingredients in the casserole dish. This makes for a rich and tasty breakfast.
“The secret to a truly delectable creamy casserole lies in the sauce base.” – Paula Deen
Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole: The Original Recipe
The original Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is a Southern breakfast classic. It’s hearty and comforting, loved by many for decades. It captures the essence of Southern hospitality and flavor.
Traditional Ingredients for paula deen breakfast casserole:
The secret to this casserole’s authentic taste is in its ingredients. At its core are:
- 1 pound of ground maple pork sausage
- 6 slices of white bread
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 teaspoon of dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
These ingredients come together to make a rich and satisfying breakfast casserole. It’s sure to delight your senses.
Classic Preparation Method paula deen breakfast casserole:
The perfect Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is all about the preparation. First, the sausage is cooked and crumbled. Then, the bread is cubed and layered in a greased casserole dish.
The eggs, milk, and seasoning are whisked together and poured over the bread. This ensures every bite is full of flavor. The casserole is then refrigerated for 8 hours before baking at 350°F for 40 minutes. This results in a golden-brown, fluffy masterpiece.
The original Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is a true testament to Southern culinary heritage. It’s a comforting and indulgent start to the day. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend brunch, it’s sure to impress your taste buds and heart.
Customization Options and Variations
The Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is loved for its flexibility. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Here are some ideas for recipe variations and breakfast casserole add-ins:
- Try using nonfat plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Switch to fat-free cheese to cut down on calories and fat.
- Add crispy bacon bits for a tasty crunch.
- Replace potato chips with crunchy cornflakes for a different texture.
- Boost the flavor with fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
These changes can make the dish healthier and more to your liking. Try different combinations to create your ideal Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Original Recipe | Healthy Variation |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal | 183 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27g | 27g |
| Protein | 15g | 7.9g |
| Fat | 20g | 5.9g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 2.2g |
This breakfast casserole is all about trying new things. Experiment to find the perfect mix for you.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing your Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole ahead of time can save you valuable time on busy mornings. This versatile dish can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. It’s a fantastic meal prep option. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply follow the reheating guidelines to ensure your casserole maintains its creamy, delicious texture.
Freezing Instructions for paula deen breakfast casserole
The best way to freeze your Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is to assemble it in a freezer-safe baking dish. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the casserole from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Reheating Guidelines for paula deen breakfast casserole
To reheat your breakfast casserole, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake until it’s heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, checking frequently to ensure even heating and prevent the casserole from drying out.
Remember, the key to maintaining the perfect texture of your Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole is to avoid overcooking. Reheat it gently and keep a close eye on it to prevent the ingredients from separating or becoming dry. With a little planning and these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this Southern classic any time the craving strikes.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your breakfast or brunch better with Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole. It’s great as a side or the main dish. Pair it with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
For dinner, it goes well with roasted chicken or turkey. The casserole’s creamy, cheesy taste matches these protein-rich dishes. It makes for a cozy and tasty meal.
It’s also perfect for holidays and potlucks. Easy to make and impressive to look at, it’s a hit at parties or family gatherings.
Whichever way you serve it, the Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole will wow your guests. Its rich flavors and Southern charm are sure to impress.
Suggested Pairings:
- Scrambled eggs
- Fresh fruit salad
- Roasted chicken or turkey
- Baked ham
- Dinner rolls or biscuits
- Steamed vegetables
“This casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be served at any time of day, from breakfast to dinner.”
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
Paula Deen’s Breakfast Casserole is a tasty start to the day. But, it’s key to know the nutritional facts and dietary considerations. This Southern dish is hearty and satisfying, yet it’s important to watch portion sizes and calories for a healthy lifestyle.
Portion Sizes
A single serving of this casserole is about 190 grams and has 6 WW points. The whole recipe makes 52 WW points. It’s a filling meal that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Caloric Content paula deen breakfast casserole
Each serving of Paula Deen Breakfast Casserole has 183 calories. It has 27g carbohydrates, 7.9g protein, and 5.9g fat. This includes 2.2g of saturated fat. It also has 27mg of cholesterol, 416mg of sodium, and 472mg of potassium.
Knowing the nutritional facts of this classic Southern dish is helpful. It lets you enjoy it while staying on track with your health and wellness goals.
Conclusion ; paula deen breakfast casserole
Paula Deen’s Southern breakfast casserole is a true comfort food classic. It has stood the test of time. This dish combines hash browns, sausage, eggs, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
It’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or need a make-ahead option, this recipe is sure to please.
The beauty of this casserole is its adaptability. You can customize it to fit your taste or dietary needs. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and store, making it a convenient option.
Enjoying this casserole is like embracing Southern hospitality. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, it’s a cherished addition to your repertoire.
FAQ : paula deen breakfast casserole
What are the key ingredients in Paula Deen’s breakfast casserole?
The main ingredients are frozen shredded hash browns and reduced-fat shredded cheese. You’ll also need light butter substitute, nonfat plain Greek yogurt, and light sour cream. Additionally, 98% fat-free cream of celery soup, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and low-point potato chips are used.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this casserole?
You’ll need a medium-sized casserole dish for baking. A small skillet is required for cooking onions. You’ll also need mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons for combining and measuring ingredients.
How do you prepare the hash browns for the casserole?
Start by thawing the frozen hash browns for even cooking. If they’re not thawed, cooking time will be longer by 15-20 minutes. Make sure to coat the hash browns well with the mixture for the right texture.
What is the creamy sauce base made of?
The sauce base is made from nonfat plain Greek yogurt, light sour cream, and 98% fat-free cream of celery soup. Be careful not to overcook, as the Greek yogurt can separate and ruin the sauce’s smoothness.
How does this recipe differ from the original Paula Deen version?
This version uses reduced-fat cheese and a mix of Greek yogurt and light sour cream. It also includes 98% fat-free cream of celery soup. These changes make it better for WW followers.
What are some customization options for this breakfast casserole?
You can use all nonfat plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Try fat-free cheese, add bacon bits, or use cornflakes as a topping. Adding herbs like parsley, oregano, or Italian seasoning can also enhance the flavor.
How can this casserole be prepared and stored ahead of time?
Prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. When reheating, make sure it’s heated evenly to keep the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking to prevent the ingredients from separating.
What are the nutritional facts and serving information for this recipe?
Each serving (190g) has 6 WW points. The whole recipe is 52 WW points. Here’s the nutritional info per serving: 183 calories, 27g carbs, 7.9g protein, 5.9g fat, 2.2g saturated fat, 27mg cholesterol, 416mg sodium, 472mg potassium, 2.5g fiber, 1.6g sugar, 120mg calcium, 0.7mg iron.