Breakfast for Dinner: Simplifying with a Casserole

In our household, breakfast for dinner is a cherished tradition. My husband and I relish the joy of enjoying pancakes, omelets, or breakfast casseroles after a long day. We used to dedicate time to crafting elaborate meals, but with the arrival of our little one, our schedules have shifted. Now, as busy parents, we seek meals that are both quick and satisfying.

As a Southern woman, I have a special affinity for casseroles. They’re the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, capturing the essence of comfort food with minimal effort. A good casserole is not only quick to prepare but also requires just a few ingredients, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

While many might turn to potatoes as the star of their casseroles, we prefer grits. Their creamy texture and rich flavor offer a delightful twist that we have come to adore. Grits bring a classic Southern vibe to the table, making each meal feel like a warm hug.

The Beauty of a Breakfast Casserole

A breakfast casserole is a versatile dish that allows you to incorporate all your favorite breakfast ingredients into one dish. It requires minimal prep work and results in fewer dishes to clean up afterward. Here's how you can streamline your breakfast-for-dinner experience:

Ingredients and Tools

To get started, gather the following ingredients and tools:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. Breakfast sausage (Mild Jimmy Dean or Spicy if you want to spice it up)

  • 4 Eggs

  • 1/3 Cup of Milk

  • 2 Cups of Chedder Cheese

  • 1 Cup of Grits

  • Seasonings (salt, pepper, etc.) to taste

  • Chicken Broth for Grits

• Tools:

  • Casserole dish

  • Pan to cook the sausage

  • Pan to prepare grits

Steps to Prepare a Breakfast Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the Sausage: In a pan, cook the breakfast sausage until it's browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

3. Prepare the Grits: Using fast cooking grits, prepare as package describes. Use chicken broth instead of water.

4. Mix the Eggs and Milk: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

   • In the casserole dish combine sausage, eggs, grits, and 1 cup of the cheese.

   • Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for an hour, or until the eggs are set.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

   
   

Why Choose a Casserole?

• Fewer Dishes: You only need three cooking vessels: a casserole dish, a pan for the sausage, and a pan for grits.

• Easy Preparation: Simply layer your ingredients and let the oven do the work.

• Versatility: Customize your casserole with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your family's tastes.

• Convenience: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, allowing you to enjoy breakfast for dinner with minimal effort on busy nights.

By opting for a breakfast casserole, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of breakfast without the hassle of multiple pans and a lengthy cleanup. It's a win-win for any household that loves breakfast for dinner!