Introduction
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a hearty and savory delight – Meat Lovers Casserole! Packed with a medley of meats, cheeses, and savory seasonings, this casserole is a true comfort food masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a brunch gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible recipe!
For Whom and Why It’s Great
Meat Lovers Casserole is perfect for anyone who appreciates the rich and satisfying flavors of meat and cheese. Whether you’re a carnivore at heart or simply craving a hearty and filling meal, this casserole is sure to hit the spot. With its combination of savory sausage, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of day. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite meats and cheeses, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Recipe Details
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground sausage (such as breakfast sausage or Italian sausage)
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and ground sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the meat mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, along with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses.
- Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the meat and bacon in the baking dish.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite meats and cheeses. Try adding diced ham, cooked crumbled sausage, or even pepperoni for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of toast, biscuits, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this savory masterpiece, you’ll need:
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair Meat Lovers Casserole with a side of crispy hash browns and a fresh green salad for a satisfying and balanced meal. The crispy texture of the hash browns and the crispness of the salad provide the perfect contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the casserole. Add a glass of your favorite red wine or a cold beer for the ultimate dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in this casserole? A: While you can certainly add frozen vegetables to this casserole, be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before adding them to the meat mixture. Excess moisture from frozen vegetables can affect the texture of the casserole.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese would all be delicious additions to this casserole.
Conclusion
Satisfy your cravings for comfort food with Meat Lovers Casserole. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this savory dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Share the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious creations. Happy cooking!