Wake Up Casserole Recipe

Eggs: Provides the base and structure for the casserole.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and flavorful element to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding richness and a cheesy flavor.

Frozen hash browns: Provides a hearty and filling base for the casserole.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor.

When preparing the hash browns for this casserole, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to remove any excess moisture. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming too watery and ensure a nice, crispy texture. Additionally, when whisking the eggs and milk together, make sure to whisk until the mixture is fully combined and slightly frothy. This will help incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and fluffier casserole.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. This works well as a binder in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: It provides a similar consistency and is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free alternative.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option with less fat and calories, making it a healthier choice.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a milder flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a less sharp taste.

• thawed frozen hash browns - Substitute with grated fresh potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes can be used in place of frozen hash browns. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture before using.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat level but a slightly different flavor profile, which can add a unique twist to the dish.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the casserole, cut it into individual portions. This makes reheating easier and more efficient.

• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, consume within this timeframe to maintain optimal flavor and texture.

• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• For reheating from frozen, it's best to thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as above.

• If you're in a hurry, you can reheat the casserole directly from frozen. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.

• For a quick microwave option, place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through, until hot.

• Always ensure the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure it's safe to eat.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Wake Up Casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top get crispy again.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the Wake Up Casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the leftover Wake Up Casserole in the skillet.
  4. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even heating.
  5. Check that the casserole is heated through before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Wake Up Casserole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 2-minute intervals until hot and crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, and to combine all the ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix them thoroughly with the milk, salt, and pepper.

• Spatula: Used to stir in the cooked sausage, hash browns, and shredded cheese into the egg mixture.

• Baking dish: Used to hold the casserole mixture while it bakes in the oven.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and shredded cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt and black pepper precisely.

• Cheese grater: Used to shred the cheddar cheese if it is not pre-shredded.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking.

Pre-cook the sausage: Cook and crumble the breakfast sausage ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Thaw hash browns overnight: Place the frozen hash browns in the fridge the night before to ensure they are ready to use.

Mix ingredients in advance: Combine the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper the night before and store in the fridge.

Grease the baking dish: Prepare the baking dish ahead of time to streamline the assembly process.