There’s nothing quite like a Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole to start your morning with a hearty, comforting dish. This breakfast recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or even a lazy weekend brunch. Imagine layers of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, creamy cottage cheese, and savory hash browns all baked together in one delicious casserole. It’s a make-ahead breakfast that’s not only super easy to whip up but also satisfies even the pickiest of eaters.
Inspired by traditional Amish recipes, this casserole brings the simplicity and heartiness of Amish cooking right to your table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a warm, cozy start to the day, this cheesy breakfast casserole is exactly what you need. Trust me, after the first bite, your taste buds will thank you!
Chef Olivia’s Notes
I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and it never fails to impress. The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. If you love a particular type of cheese, you can easily swap it in! I often throw in whatever I have on hand—from leftover ham to a handful of fresh spinach—and it turns out delicious every time. Another bonus is that it can be prepped the night before. I’m always grateful when I can wake up, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen while I enjoy a cup of coffee!
History of the Recipe
Amish cooking is all about warmth, simplicity, and heartiness. Dishes like this Amish breakfast casserole are staples in Amish communities, especially since they emphasize feeding a crowd with minimal fuss. The casserole format is ideal for families because it allows you to cook up a large batch that everyone can dig into. This recipe, featuring bacon, eggs, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese, reflects the simple yet satisfying ingredients commonly found in Amish kitchens. The love for casseroles runs deep in Amish cooking traditions because they’re easy, filling, and perfect for gathering loved ones around the table.
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Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 9×13-inch casserole 1x
Description
This Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy cheeses, crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and comforting hash browns. It’s the perfect choice for a cozy morning meal that brings everyone together, whether it’s for a holiday breakfast or a relaxed weekend brunch. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that you can prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 ½ cups small curd cottage cheese
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extras for Serving
- ¼ cup sour cream (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- ½ cup salsa (optional)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and gets that nice, golden crust along the edges. - Cook Bacon and Onion
In a skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then toss in the chopped onion and continue cooking until the onion is soft and golden. Drain off any excess grease, as this will help prevent the casserole from becoming too oily. The combination of bacon and onion adds a savory depth of flavor that makes this dish irresistible. - Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until they’re light and frothy, then add all the cheeses. Stir in the bacon, onion, and hash browns. Add a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it bakes uniformly. - Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set. A beautiful aroma will fill your kitchen as it bakes, signaling that breakfast is almost ready!
Notes
Make-ahead Tip: This casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning as directed, and you’re set!
Reheating Tips: Leftovers keep well in the fridge and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave. I often find that the flavors are even more delicious the next day.
Variations: Want to mix things up? Here are some fun variations:
- Try Sausage or Ham
Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or diced ham for a different flavor profile. - Add Veggies
Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and a pop of color. - Experiment with Cheeses
Gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can be great additions for a unique twist on this classic cheesy casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American, Amish-inspired
Health Benefits
This hearty Cheesy Amish Breakfast Casserole is loaded with protein, thanks to the eggs, bacon, and cheese. It’s a satisfying way to start the day, particularly for anyone needing extra energy. It can also be made gluten-free by ensuring there are no gluten-containing ingredients in the mix.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g (38% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 15g (5% DV)
- Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
- Sodium: 650mg (28% DV)
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this be frozen?
Absolutely! Freeze it after baking and cooling. When you’re ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it up in the oven.
Can I use fresh hash browns?
Yes, you can, but remember that fresh hash browns may alter the texture slightly. Frozen hash browns often give a more consistent texture in casseroles.
How can I make this healthier?
Try using turkey bacon, reducing the cheese, or even adding in more veggies to cut down on fat and calories while keeping it delicious.