Easy Southwest Breakfast Casserole

This easy Southwest breakfast casserole is hearty, comforting, and full of bold flavor. It has a soft, custardy center with golden edges, packed with smoky sausage, tender vegetables, and melted cheese. The recipe is beginner friendly and ideal for relaxed weekends or feeding a crowd. From prep to table, it is ready in about one hour.

Ingredients

For the base

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 0.5 cup single cream
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp ground black pepper

For the filling

• 250 g breakfast sausage or chorizo, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup sweetcorn, drained
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.5 tsp ground cumin

For the topping

• 1.5 cups grated Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 2 spring onions, finely sliced
• Butter or oil, for greasing the dish

Method

Preparing the oven and dish

Preheat the oven to 180°C or 160°C fan. Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or oil and set aside.

Mixing the filling

In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Add the onion and peppers, then cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the sweetcorn, smoked paprika, and cumin. Remove from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

Preparing the egg mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

Assembling the casserole

Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle over most of the grated cheese. Pour the egg mixture gently over the top, then finish with the remaining cheese and sliced spring onions.

Baking

Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is just set and the top is lightly golden.

Cooling and serving

Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set neatly and improves texture.

Tips

How do I stop the casserole from becoming watery

Make sure the vegetables are cooked until soft and any excess moisture has evaporated before assembling.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time

Yes. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next morning.

How do I know when it is fully cooked

The center should feel firm when gently pressed and a knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

Can I adjust the spice level

Absolutely. Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chilli flakes for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with sliced avocado or guacamole
• Pair with warm tortillas or crusty bread
• Add a fresh tomato and coriander salad on the side

Storage

Room temperature

This casserole should not be kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Sodium: 780 mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this breakfast casserole vegetarian

Yes. Replace the sausage with cooked black beans or sautéed mushrooms.

Can I use only milk instead of cream

You can. The texture will be slightly lighter but still delicious.

What size baking dish works best

A medium rectangular dish around 9 x 13 inches gives even cooking.

Can I add potatoes to this recipe

Yes. Use cooked and diced potatoes or hash browns and reduce the liquid slightly.