Hearty Harvest Casserole is a filling and nutritious dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. This delightful bake combines hearty ingredients like breakfast sausage, fresh vegetables, and eggs, making it an ideal comfort food casserole for any occasion. The blend of flavors creates a savory casserole meal that warms the soul. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or looking for an easy meal prep option, this nutritious harvest bake will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Hearty Harvest Casserole

This Hearty Harvest Casserole is packed with benefits! First, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup. Second, it’s highly nutritious, thanks to the fresh spinach and butternut squash, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking for a filling casserole dish. Third, the combination of eggs and sausage provides a protein boost that keeps you energized throughout the day. You’ll also love that it can easily be customized with seasonal vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any time of year. Plus, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Perfect for family dinners, it’s a true crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Hearty Harvest Casserole

Gather these items:

1 pound breakfast sausage
1 cup diced onions

1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
3 cups fresh spinach
1 cup diced butternut squash

8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder

4 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

How to Make Hearty Harvest Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, sauté onions, bell peppers, and butternut squash for 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 4: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked sausage, veggies, and cubed bread. Pour the egg mixture over the top.
Step 5: Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Hearty Harvest Casserole

Keep these in mind:

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.

Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference for a hearty vegetable casserole.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding different herbs.

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Best Ways to Serve Hearty Harvest Casserole

Serving this Hearty Harvest Casserole is a breeze! Pair it with a fresh salad for a nutritious meal or serve it with warm, crusty bread for a comforting dinner. For a festive touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a side of fruit to balance the savory flavors. This dish also makes a wonderful centerpiece for any brunch table, showcasing the colorful vegetables and rich cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Hearty Harvest Casserole

To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Hearty Harvest Casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual servings in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy your meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Harvest Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Hearty Harvest Casserole?

The key to a perfect Hearty Harvest Casserole lies in using day-old bread, which absorbs the egg mixture beautifully. Also, don’t rush the baking process; allowing it to rest helps set the layers and makes for a delicious slice.

Can I make Hearty Harvest Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning for a warm and hearty breakfast or brunch option that’s easy to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hearty Harvest Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the bread is stale enough to soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy. Also, be mindful of not overcooking the casserole, as this can lead to a dry texture.

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Variations of Hearty Harvest Casserole You Can Try

There are endless possibilities for customizing your Hearty Harvest Casserole! Consider trying a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and adding more seasonal vegetables. Alternatively, for a Mediterranean twist, incorporate feta cheese and cherry tomatoes. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole wheat, for added flavor and texture.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try our Eggs Benedict Casserole for another brunch favorite. If you’re looking for a quick meal, our Easy Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken is a must-try!

For more information on the nutritional benefits of the ingredients used, you can visit Healthline’s article on spinach or learn about the advantages of butternut squash at Medical News Today’s guide.

Hearty Harvest Casserole: 8 Savory Delights to Enjoy

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Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Hearty Harvest Casserole is a filling and nutritious dish perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Instructions

In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, sauté onions, bell peppers, and butternut squash for 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked sausage, veggies, and cubed bread. Pour the egg mixture over the top.

Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
Let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.