Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast is often heralded as the most important meal of the day, and what better way to start your morning than with a hearty and delicious Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole? This dish combines the comfort of classic breakfast ingredients into one easy, flavorful casserole that is perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. The Ninja Foodi makes the process simple, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying breakfast without a lot of fuss. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful breakfast casserole.
Why It Works Every Time
The beauty of the Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. The combination of eggs, sausage, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that can be customized to suit your taste. The frozen shredded hash browns serve as a perfect base, absorbing all the delicious flavors while providing a crispy texture. Plus, using the Ninja Foodi allows for even cooking and the option to crisp the top to perfection, making it a foolproof choice for breakfast.
Gather These Ingredients
To make your Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 eggs – The main protein source and binding agent for the casserole.
- 1 pound pork sausage (like Jimmy Dean) – A classic breakfast sausage that adds flavor and richness.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk or heavy cream – For creaminess and a rich texture.
- 30 oz. frozen shredded hash browns – The perfect base for the casserole.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (divided) – A melty, gooey topping that enhances the dish.
- 1 1/2 tsp salt – To season the eggs and enhance the flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and depth.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder – For an extra layer of flavor.
Setup & Equipment
Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Ninja Foodi – The star of the show, perfect for this casserole.
- Mixing bowl – For whisking the eggs and combining ingredients.
- Spatula – For mixing and spreading ingredients evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cooking spray or oil – To prevent sticking in the Ninja Foodi.
Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole, Made Easy
Creating your Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to whip up this delicious dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk them together until well combined. Add in the whole milk or heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Turn on the Ninja Foodi and set it to the sauté function. Add the pound of pork sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Hash Browns
Spray the Ninja Foodi pot with cooking spray or lightly coat it with oil. Evenly spread the frozen shredded hash browns across the bottom of the pot. This will form the base of your casserole.
Step 4: Add the Sausage and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Gently pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it covers the sausage and hash browns evenly.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, gooey topping once cooked.
Step 6: Cook in the Ninja Foodi
Close the lid of the Ninja Foodi and set it to the bake/roast function at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the pot from the Ninja Foodi and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm for a delightful breakfast experience.
Tailor It to Your Diet
This Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to tailor it to your dietary preferences:
- Swap the Meat: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions for added nutrients and flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that your hash browns are certified gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities.
Avoid These Mistakes
To ensure your Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly, keep these common mistakes in mind:
- Using Fresh Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns provide the best texture and moisture control. Fresh potatoes may result in a soggy casserole.
- Overcrowding the Pot: Make sure not to overfill the Ninja Foodi. If your casserole is too thick, it may not cook evenly.
- Skipping the Sausage Cooking: Always cook the sausage beforehand to ensure it’s fully cooked and to enhance the flavors in the casserole.
- Not Letting It Cool: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting. This helps it hold its shape better.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine), here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole:
To store, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to freeze it, cut the casserole into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm. If frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why is my casserole soggy?
A soggy casserole can occur if fresh hash browns are used or if the mixture is too wet. Make sure to use frozen hash browns and measure the liquid ingredients accurately.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I do if it’s not cooking evenly?
If your casserole isn’t cooking evenly, check that you haven’t overfilled the pot. If needed, you can cut it into smaller portions to ensure even cooking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Just keep in mind that some cheeses may melt differently and affect the overall texture.
Bring It Home
In a world where breakfast can often feel rushed or uninspired, the Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole provides a delightful and satisfying solution. Its combination of hearty ingredients, ease of preparation, and the ability to customize cater to various dietary needs make it a go-to breakfast option. Whether you are feeding a crowd or simply prepping for the week ahead, this casserole invites comfort and flavor into your mornings.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the Ninja Foodi, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a breakfast that is as delicious as it is easy. Enjoy every bite and the smiles that come with sharing this delightful dish!
Ninja Foodi Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 eggs and whisk them together until well combined. Add in the whole milk or heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Turn on the Ninja Foodi and set it to the sauté function. Add the pound of pork sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Spray the Ninja Foodi pot with cooking spray or lightly coat it with oil. Evenly spread the frozen shredded hash browns across the bottom of the pot. This will form the base of your casserole.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Gently pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it covers the sausage and hash browns evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, gooey topping once cooked.
- Close the lid of the Ninja Foodi and set it to the bake/roast function at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pot from the Ninja Foodi and let it cool for a few minutes. Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm for a delightful breakfast experience.
Notes
- Use frozen hash browns for the best texture and moisture control.
- Feel free to swap the pork sausage for turkey or plant-based alternatives.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to help it hold its shape.
