Beginner Meals: Breakfast Casserole

#mealprep #lemon8challenge

## Meal-Prep Marvel: Breakfast Casserole with Bacon, Sausage, and Pancakes!

This recipe is a breakfast casserole dream come true for meal preppers! It combines the savory goodness of bacon and sausage with fluffy pancakes in a convenient, make-ahead dish. Perfect for busy mornings, it keeps you fueled and satisfied throughout the week.

**Ingredients:**

* **Breakfasty Base:**

* 8 slices bacon, chopped

* 1 pound breakfast sausage links (or patties), casings removed and crumbled

* 1 cup cooked and crumbled pancakes (use your favorite leftover pancakes or pre-made frozen pancakes)

* **Egg Mixture:**

* 8 large eggs, whisked

* 2 cups milk (whole milk for richer flavor, low-fat for lighter option)

* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)

* 1/4 cup chopped green onions

* 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

* Salt to taste

* **Optional Add-Ins (pick your favorites!):**

* Diced bell peppers

* Chopped mushrooms

* Shredded zucchini

* Crumbled cooked vegetables (broccoli, spinach)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prep the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

2. **Sausage & Bacon Bonanza:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Drain off any excess grease. Add the crumbled breakfast sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

3. **Pancake Power:** Once the sausage is cooked through, remove the pan from heat and stir in the cooked and crumbled pancakes.

4. **Whisk It Good:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, shredded cheese, green onions, thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste.

5. **Assemble the Casserole:** Spread the cooked sausage, bacon, and pancake mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it reaches all corners.

6. **Optional Add-Ins:** If using any additional vegetables, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole before pouring the egg mixture.

7. **Bake Time!** Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The eggs should be set and the top should be golden brown.

8. **Cool and Slice:** Let the casserole cool slightly before cutting into squares for meal prep portions.

9. **Store and Enjoy:** Refrigerate the casserole in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

**Tips:**

* Freeze the casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

* Want to save even more time? Use pre-cooked bacon bits or crumbled sausage to simplify the prep process.

* Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese and vegetables to customize this recipe to your liking.

* Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for an extra flavor kick when reheating.

This meal-prep breakfast casserole is a fantastic way to streamline your mornings and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed breakfast throughout the week. With its ease of preparation and customizable options, it's a recipe that's sure to become a breakfast staple!