Imagine starting your day with a delicious pioneer woman hashbrown breakfast casserole. It’s perfect for feeding your family and is easy to make. Ree Drummond’s recipe has become a favorite among home cooks. It’s loved for its simple ingredients and make-ahead convenience.
As you prepare this mouth-watering breakfast casserole, you’ll learn about quality ingredients. This recipe features bacon, tater tots, eggs, and cheese as the main ingredients. This dish is satisfying and flavorful. It’s great for weekend breakfasts, family brunches, or church potlucks.
Key Takeaways
- You can make a delicious pioneer woman hashbrown breakfast casserole with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
- This breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, serving up to 10 people with just six eggs.
- The casserole can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking or frozen for up to three months.
- Each serving of the pioneer woman hashbrown breakfast casserole contains approximately 916 calories, 31g of carbohydrates, 39g of protein, and 70g of fat.
- The recipe offers variations, such as switching up the type of meat or adding vegetables, to cater to different tastes and preferences.
- The pioneer woman hashbrown breakfast casserole is a versatile dish suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, making it a great addition to your meal rotation.
- With its make-ahead convenience and easy preparation, this breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for busy families or special occasions.
Introduction to Pioneer Woman Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole
The Pioneer Woman Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole, also known as “The Kids Are Home Casserole,” is a favorite by Ree Drummond. It’s easy to make and tastes great, making it perfect for busy mornings.
History of the Recipe
Ree Drummond made this casserole for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare ahead. Its nickname, “The Kids Are Home Casserole,” shows it’s a hit with families needing a reliable breakfast.
Why This Recipe Works
This make ahead breakfast casserole is great for feeding a lot of people. You can change up the ingredients to fit different tastes and diets. Plus, you can make it early, saving time on busy mornings.
What Makes It Special
The casserole’s comforting flavors and fresh ingredients make it stand out. It’s perfect for any day, whether it’s a weekday breakfast or a weekend brunch. Its flexibility keeps it a top choice for many families.
| Prep Time | 15 mins | Bake Time | 45 mins at 350°F |
|---|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner-friendly | Yield | 8 servings |
| Main Ingredients | Hash browns, mozzarella, eggs | Special Features | Make ahead, customizable |
Essential Ingredients for Your Breakfast Casserole
Making a tasty pioneer woman breakfast casserole begins with picking the right ingredients. Each part is crucial for the perfect mix of flavors and textures in your breakfast casserole with hashbrowns.
- Breakfast Sausage: Adds savory richness and protein.
- Green onions offer a light onion taste and add a touch of freshness.
- Bell Pepper: Introduces sweetness and vibrant color.
- Eggs: function as the glue that holds the casserole together, providing structure and stability.
- Heavy Cream: Ensures a creamy texture.
- Dijon Mustard: adds a touch of zest and enriches the dish with a deep, savory flavor.
- Tabasco: Gives a hint of heat.
- Salt & Pepper: Enhance overall flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a robust cheese flavor.
- Hash Browns: The base that adds heartiness and crunch.
When making your breakfast casserole with hashbrowns, choose sharp cheddar cheese for the best taste. Use shredded hash browns for a uniform texture. For a dairy-free option, swap heavy cream with almond milk and use plant-based cheese.
For extra flavor, try adding chopped onions or more green onions, as some reviewers suggest.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
Having the right tools makes making the perfect hashbrown casserole recipe easy. Make sure your kitchen has these essentials for your breakfast casserole ideas.
Required Cookware
- 9-by-13-inch baking dish: Ideal for evenly spreading your ingredients.
- Large skillet: Perfect for cooking sausages and sautéing vegetables.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining eggs, milk, and other ingredients.
- Measure ingredients accurately with cups and spoons to ensure consistency in every recipe.
Optional Tools for Easier Preparation
- Food processor: Shred cheese quickly and effortlessly.
- Whisk: Efficiently beat eggs to the perfect consistency.
- Non-stick spatula: Makes transferring ingredients into the baking dish hassle-free.
- Cooking thermometer: Helps verify that the casserole is baked to the right temperature.
| Tool | Purpose | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Food Processor | Shredding cheese | Saves time and ensures uniform texture |
| Whisk | Beating eggs | Incorporates air for fluffier texture |
| Non-stick Spatula | Transferring ingredients | Prevents sticking and preserves casserole integrity |
| Cooking Thermometer | Checking temperature | Ensures casserole is perfectly baked |
Preparing Your Ingredients
Getting your ingredients ready is key for a tasty breakfast casserole. Start by thawing frozen hash browns in the fridge overnight. This makes them cook evenly and keeps the texture right. If you’re in a rush, thaw them in the microwave but watch out for overheating.
Let your eggs get to room temperature. This makes them mix well with the casserole, making it creamier. While waiting, chop your veggies. Use a sharp knife and cutting board to cut the red bell pepper and green onions. Make sure they’re all the same size for even distribution.
Measuring ingredients correctly is crucial for great results. Have all your ingredients ready, including 12 ounces of shredded Cheddar cheese. This saves time and ensures you don’t miss anything important.
Set up your workspace by arranging all your tools and ingredients. Prepping your ingredients in advance makes cooking simpler and more enjoyable. By following these steps, you’ll make a pioneer woman hashbrown breakfast casserole that’s both delicious and fulfilling.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to create an easy breakfast casserole for your family. It serves up to 12 people.
Hashbrown Preparation
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter a 13-by-9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread 30 ounces of frozen shredded hash browns evenly in the dish.
Mixing the Ingredients
Cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Add 6 chopped green onions and 1 diced red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 10 large eggs, 1 1/4 cups of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1-2 teaspoons of Tabasco, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
Layering the Casserole
Distribute the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture over the hash browns. Sprinkle 3 cups of sharp cheddar cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
Baking Instructions
Tent the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the casserole is set. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors come together.
| Servings | 10-12 |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 mins |
| Total Time | 1 hr 10 mins |
| Cooking Temperature | 350°F |
| Storage | 3-4 days in fridge, 2-3 months frozen |
Make-Ahead Tips and Storage Guidelines
Preparing a breakfast casserole ahead of time helps save time and reduces stress on busy mornings. By taking a few simple steps in advance, you ensure a delicious meal is ready when you need it.
Preparation in Advance
Assemble your breakfast casserole with hashbrowns the night before. Place all ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste when baked.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze both baked and unbaked casseroles. For unbaked casseroles, cover them securely and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing a baked casserole, let it cool completely before wrapping and storing to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating Methods
Warm up single servings in the microwave for a fast and easy meal. For the entire dish, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Reheating this casserole properly helps retain its moisture and flavor.
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Unbaked) | Up to 2 days | Cover tightly and refrigerate before baking. |
| Refrigerator (Baked) | 3-4 days | Store in an airtight container after cooling. |
| Freezer (Unbaked) | Up to 3 months | Wrap securely with plastic wrap and foil. |
| Freezer (Baked) | Up to 3 months | Ensure completely cooled before wrapping. |
Recipe Variations and Customizations
Make your hashbrown casserole your own by changing it up. Need inspiration? Here are a few ideas to kick things off:
- Bacon Swap: Try using crispy bacon instead of sausage for a smoky taste.
- Cheese Choices: Mix it up with cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for more nutrition and color.
- Spice It Up: Use herbs like thyme or add cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add more veggies or plant-based proteins for a meatless dish.
- For a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free hashbrowns and ingredients.
These ideas let you make the dish fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs. It’s a great choice for any breakfast.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Start your day with the perfect sides for your pioneer woman breakfast casserole. These pairings will make your brunch complete and enjoyable.
Complementary Side Dishes
- Fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing balance
- Crunchy hash brown potatoes to complement the casserole
- Buttery scones or a classic coffee cake
- Pair it with a mixed green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette.
Beverage Pairings
- Mimosas for a festive touch
- Bloody Marys to kickstart your day
- Freshly brewed coffee or herbal teas
- Freshly squeezed orange juice for a citrusy refreshment
| Side Dish | Beverage |
|---|---|
| Fresh Fruit Salad | Mimosas |
| Hash Brown Potatoes | Bloody Marys |
| Buttery Scones | Freshly Brewed Coffee |
| Mixed Green Salad | Herbal Teas |
Conclusion
The Pioneer Woman Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a hit for any morning meal. It’s easy to make and can be tailored to suit everyone’s taste. This makes it a go-to for families and hosts.
You can prepare it ahead or add your favorite ingredients. This recipe offers a filling start to your day. The mix of crispy hashbrowns, savory sausage, and melted cheese is a perfect blend.
Feel free to add veggies, try different cheeses, or add jalapeños. This flexibility makes it a must-have for breakfast or brunch. It’s a dish you can always count on.
Give this recipe a try and see how it changes your mornings. Share your own twists and stories to help others in the kitchen. The Pioneer Woman Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole is a joy to cook and eat.