sausage breakfast casserole

The inspiration for this dish? Pride. Really. It was my week to bring breakfast to our group at church. I didn't want to bring donuts, and had no idea what to bring. So, this was created, and it got rave reviews. I'll even post another one in the future that was waaaay-winging it one morning when my cupboards were bare.

One thing we learned the hard way around here is that the sausage really does make the dish - don't skimp! Just put the extra $3-4 towards your tastebuds - they'll thank you.

1 bag potatoes O'Brien

3 slices white or sourdough bread

10 eggs

1 1/2 cups milk

1 t vanilla

1 t salt

1 pound good quality, maple breakfast sausage, cooked & chopped.

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1. Generously grease a 13x9 and dump in potatoes.

2. Break bread into small pieces and layer over potatoes.

3. In a blender, combine eggs, milk, vanilla, and salt. Pour over potatoes & bread.

4. Spread the sausage pieces evenly over pan, then top with cheese.

5. CHILL FOR 8-24 HOURS.

The next morning:

6. Place in oven, turn on to 350, and bake for 1 hour or until set (no liquid).
7. Allow to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

*This casserole freezes well, and makes great breakfast burritos: just wrap casserole in foil & then plastic wrap. Defrost overnight, and reheat in the oven or toaster oven. If using for burritos, wrap in a warm tortilla.-