The “No-Fuss, Feed-a-Crowd” Incredible Breakfast Bake: Your Secret Weapon for Lazy Mornings & Holiday Brunches

Ingredients:

• 1 lb breakfast sausage (or bacon if you prefer)
• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1 large onion, diced (optional)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 cup frozen hash browns or cubed day-old bread (for a heartier bake)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like chives or parsley, optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Sausage:
   In a large skillet, cook the sausage (or bacon) over medium heat until browned and cooked through. If you’re using sausage, break it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed, and set the cooked meat aside.
3. Sauté Veggies (Optional):
   If you’re adding onions and bell peppers, sauté them in the same skillet for 3-4 minutes until softened. You can skip this step if you prefer a more basic bake.
4. Mix the Eggs:
   In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the milk or cream. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the hash browns or cubed bread as the base. Then, layer the cooked sausage and veggies evenly over the base.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture:
   Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and veggies. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
7. Bake:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the center is set, and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve:
   Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep the night before: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a hot, fresh breakfast ready in no time.

Additional Variations:

• Add some greens: Try adding spinach, kale, or arugula for a bit of extra color and nutrition.
• Swap out the cheese: Use a mix of different cheeses, like feta or Swiss, for a unique flavor twist.
• Spice it up: Add some salsa, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce for a bit of heat!