This Potatoes O’Brien Breakfast Casserole is a tasty and filling way to start your day! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, crispy potatoes, and colorful peppers.
Perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast at home, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. I love how easy it is to make—just mix, pour, and bake! Who doesn’t love less morning stress? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes O’Brien: This mix of frozen diced potatoes, red, and green bell peppers is super convenient. If you’re fresh out, you can use regular diced frozen potatoes and add your own chopped peppers for flavor and color.
Eggs: Eggs give the casserole its structure. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using silken tofu blended until smooth as a substitute, or egg replacement products available in stores.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or a cheese blend if you prefer something milder.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a delicious savory touch. For a vegetarian version, try using sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh as an alternative.
Onion: A small onion provides sweetness and depth. You can use shallots or green onions if that’s what you have on hand, as they work nicely too.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Potatoes for My Casserole?
Cooking the potatoes properly is key to a delicious casserole. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use medium heat when sautéing to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Stir occasionally to avoid sticking and promote even browning, taking about 8-10 minutes.
- Ensure they are tender before adding them to the egg mixture. This adds a lovely texture!
Following these simple tips will guarantee fluffy, tasty potatoes in your casserole. Enjoy your cooking journey!
Potatoes O’Brien Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups frozen diced potatoes O’Brien (potatoes with red and green bell peppers)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For Sautéing:
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and 35-45 minutes to bake, making it a perfect dish for breakfast or brunch. So, get ready to enjoy a hearty meal in about 1 hour total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Grab a skillet and warm the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and frozen diced potatoes O’Brien. Cook while stirring occasionally until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, and the onions are translucent, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Yum!
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until it’s nice and fluffy. Then add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Combine and Layer:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Stir the sautéed potatoes and onions into the egg mixture until fully mixed. Pour half of this mixture into the greased baking dish, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.
5. Finish Assembling:
Pour the remaining potato and egg mixture over the first layer. Then, sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. For a little extra flair, you can garnish with parsley or chives if you like!
Enjoy your hearty, cheesy Potatoes O’Brien Breakfast Casserole! Perfect for sharing with family or friends. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’d like to use fresh potatoes, about 4 cups of diced fresh potatoes will work well. Just sauté them longer (around 10-12 minutes) to ensure they are tender before adding them to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply assemble it in the baking dish without baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven, and you may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to Customize It?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheese. Just be mindful of the moisture content to maintain the casserole’s texture!
