Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hearty Pennsylvania Dutch Breakfast Bake?
It is a savory breakfast casserole made with eggs, milk, sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and cubed white bread, known for its fluffy texture and rich flavor.
Can I make this breakfast bake ahead of time?
Yes, the recipe is designed to be assembled and refrigerated overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for morning gatherings.
What size baking dish do I need?
You will need a 9x13-inch baking dish for this recipe.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the baking temperature for this casserole?
The casserole should be baked at 350°F (175°C).
How long does the Hearty Pennsylvania Dutch Breakfast Bake take to bake?
It takes approximately 45 minutes to bake until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for cubed white bread, which absorbs the egg mixture well.
What kind of sausage should I use?
You should use 1 lb of sausage that has been browned and crumbled.
Can I use different types of milk?
The recipe suggests using either whole or 2% milk for the best consistency.
Is dry mustard required for this recipe?
Dry mustard is optional but recommended to add a subtle, savory depth of flavor to the egg mixture.
What type of cheese is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
How many eggs are needed?
You will need 6 large eggs for this breakfast bake.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should grease the bottom and sides of the 9x13-inch dish to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
Should the casserole sit before baking?
After removing it from the refrigerator, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before placing it in the oven.
How do I know when the egg bake is done?
The casserole is finished when the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is fully set.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
There are 32g of protein per serving.
What is the fat content for this dish?
One serving contains 30g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in one serving?
There are 30g of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I add extra salt to the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, but you can adjust this to your personal taste.
Should I cool the bake before serving?
Yes, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Is this recipe suitable for family gatherings?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as being perfect for family gatherings and weekend brunches.
Can I use a different type of cheese than cheddar?
While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you can substitute it with other meltable cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl and whisk in the milk, salt, and dry mustard.
How do I layer the ingredients?
Layer the cubed bread first, followed by the browned sausage, then the shredded cheese, and finally the egg mixture.
Is the sausage added raw?
No, the sausage must be browned and crumbled before it is added to the casserole layers.
Can I substitute the white bread?
Yes, you can use other types of bread like sourdough or brioche, though the texture may vary slightly.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include breakfast, casserole, Pennsylvania Dutch, eggs, sausage, cheese, easy recipe, make ahead, and family meal.
Can I use a smaller baking dish?
It is recommended to use a 9x13 dish to ensure the layers are thin enough to cook through evenly.
Why do I need to cover the dish with plastic wrap?
Covering the dish while it refrigerates overnight prevents the top from drying out and keeps the flavors fresh.