Wake Up Casserole Recipe

Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and protein.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together.

Sausage: Adds a savory and flavorful element to the dish.

Shredded cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a rich and cheesy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

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

To ensure your casserole has a fluffy texture, make sure to whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly until they are fully combined and slightly frothy. This will incorporate air into the mixture, helping it rise and set evenly during baking.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a great vegan alternative and adds a nutty flavor.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that provides a similar texture and slightly nutty flavor.

• cooked and crumbled sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled tofu: Tofu can be seasoned to mimic sausage flavors and is a good vegetarian option.

• shredded cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast provides a cheesy flavor and is a vegan alternative.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami depth.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile, often used in lighter-colored dishes.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you prefer to store individual portions, cut the casserole into squares and place them in airtight containers. This makes it easy to grab a quick breakfast or snack.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap the entire dish or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the wrapped casserole with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain its texture and flavor.
• Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, you can use a microwave for quicker results, heating on high for 1-2 minutes.
• To keep the casserole moist while reheating, cover it with aluminum foil. This prevents the top from drying out and ensures even heating.
• If you notice any excess moisture after reheating, simply blot it with a paper towel before serving. This will help maintain the desired texture and taste.
• Enjoy your wake up casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful start to your day.

• 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 the casserole 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 slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Cut a portion of the Wake Up Casserole and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second increments until the casserole is hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place a portion of the Wake Up Casserole in the skillet.
  4. Cover the skillet with a lid to help heat the casserole evenly.
  5. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the casserole is heated thoroughly.

• Air Fryer Method:

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

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

• Large bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs and milk and mix in the other ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to thoroughly combine the eggs and milk.

• Baking dish: The container in which the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

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

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

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

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

• Knife: Used to cut the casserole into portions after it has cooled.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the casserole on.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cook and crumble the sausage the night before and store it in the fridge.

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

Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine the salt and pepper in a small bowl the night before.

Grease the baking dish early: Grease the baking dish in advance to save time during assembly.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.