Farmer’s Casserole is a savory and filling dish that combines hearty potatoes, flavorful sausage, and creamy eggs, all baked together with melted cheese for a comforting breakfast or dinner. This one-pan dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, as it can be easily made ahead of time and reheated. With its savory flavors and satisfying ingredients, Farmer’s Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, offering a delicious way to start the day or to enjoy a comforting evening meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking the potatoes)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Prepare the potatoes:

1. Cook the potatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, until they are golden brown and tender. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the sausage and vegetables:

2. Cook the sausage: In the same skillet, add the sausage and cook over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes. Remove any excess grease if needed.
3. Add the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Assemble the casserole:

4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
5. Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked potatoes on the bottom. Then, add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture on top of the potatoes. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Prepare the egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.

Bake the casserole:

7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. You can insert a knife into the center to check if it comes out clean to confirm the eggs are fully cooked.

Serve:

8. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

• Make-Ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning, adjusting the cooking time by an additional 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
• Variations: Feel free to swap the sausage for bacon or ham for a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion:

Farmer’s Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Packed with protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness, this casserole will fill you up and keep you satisfied throughout the day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing an easy make-ahead meal, Farmer’s Casserole is a simple yet delicious option that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s the ultimate in comfort food that everyone will love!