Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole With Country Gravy

Written by on in Lunch

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If you’re searching for a hearty and delicious dish that will feed a hungry crowd for breakfast and doesn’t require you to wake up before the sun, your search is over. This Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole does all of the above, with a whole lot of flavor packed in.

Why is it named the way it is? Well, we suspect that it’s just the sort of breakfast that works perfectly at a firehouse. You mix everything up the night before, set it in the fridge to chill overnight, and pop it in the oven in the morning. And then wham – hot, meaty, cheesy, filling breakfast on the table for a whole hungry crew without any A.M. effort.

As far as breakfast casseroles go, this is kind of a unique one. There are no hashbrowns, home fries, or biscuits involved. Just a whole lot of protein from eggs, sausage, and cheese, along with a medley of flavorful veggies. (Which means it’s a great option if you eat low carb, and it’ll keep you full all through the morning.) It’s definitely a powerhouse of a breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is perfect for those who prefer a hearty breakfast without the hassle of early morning cooking. It’s easy to prepare the night before, making your mornings stress-free. Plus, it’s jam-packed with protein and vegetables, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Wooden spoon
  • Toothpick
  • Whisk
  • Foil

Ingredients

For the casserole:

  • 1 pound ground breakfast sausage
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 12 eggs
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
  • 8 oz sliced mushrooms
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

For the gravy:

  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1-2 tablespoons butter or oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. When the meat has begun to brown, add onions, mushrooms, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until vegetables have softened and meat is cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Stir in green onion and remove the mixture from skillet, setting it aside to cool. (Do not drain skillet.)
  3. While the meat and vegetables cool, make the gravy: Add butter or oil to the undrained skillet. Once melted, whisk in flour and allow to cook for 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk milk in and cook until gravy thickens. Simmer 2-3 more minutes and season with salt and pepper. Cover and set aside (or put in a container to chill overnight).
  5. In the prepared baking dish, crack eggs evenly across the bottom, keeping yolks intact. Poke a hole in each yolk with a toothpick and pour cream over the top of the eggs. Top with 1/2 of the cheese.
  6. Spoon sausage mixture over the eggs and cream in the baking dish and then top with remaining cheese. Cover the dish with foil and chill overnight.
  7. Bake covered in preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 30 minutes more. Serve with country gravy, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

  • Ensure the eggs are evenly spaced in the baking dish for consistent cooking.
  • Make sure to poke the yolks to allow the cream to penetrate and cook evenly.
  • Chill the casserole overnight for the best flavor integration.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap the sausage for bacon or ham if preferred.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a perfect choice for those following a low-carb diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different kind of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.

Can this casserole be frozen? Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and consume within a month for the best quality.

Conclusion

This Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to start your day without the morning rush. It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to satisfy a crowd. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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