Weekend Brunch Casserole

Tips on Making This Casserole

I have used both chopped ham or ground sausage for this recipe. Both are very good.

If using chopped ham, I like to buy precooked ham pieces, such as Farmland’s Smoked Spiral Ham Slices and Pieces. Simply chop into bite-size pieces and place in your casserole. No need to cook the ham as it’s ready to go.

If using ground sausage, I always shop for the lowest fat option I can find.

I like Oldham’s Country Sausage, which has 16 grams of fat. With this brand, you don’t sacrifice any flavor, and it’s not necessary to drain the fat after cooking. A real plus!

Now, let’s talk cheese. With this recipe, I like mozzarella best, but I’ve also used Swiss or Monterey Jack. Always buy chunk cheese and grate it yourself.

Yes, shredding the cheese is an added step and takes a bit longer, but it’s also worth the effort. Have you ever wondered why the grated cheese that you buy has a waxy feel to it? Or why it doesn’t melt as good? Hmm. Good questions to ask yourself. And good reasons to stay away from it.

On occasion, I’ve found crescent rolls that are not perforated. This type is perfect for this dish. If you can find it, go for it. It will save you the effort of pinching the seams together.

And finally, use large eggs. Or extra large. Farm fresh, if you have that option. Farm fresh is always best!

Instructions for Making This Recipe

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Gather your ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table. Using a box grater, shred the mozzarella cheese. With a sharp knife on a cutting board, mince the sweet onion.

Chop the precooked ham pieces. Or, if using sausage, crumble and cook the sausage in a medium skillet over medium high heat until browned. Drain grease.

Line the bottom of a greased 13×9 inch baking dish with crescent roll dough, firmly pressing perforations to seal. Sprinkle with chopped ham or browned sausage.

In a medium bowl, combine large eggs, grated mozzarella cheese, whole milk, minced onion, dried parsley, kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix together until well blended. Pour egg mixture over the ham or sausage.

Bake in preheated oven for 20-24 minutes or until set. Let stand 5 minutes before cutting into squares.

Serve hot with your favorite salsa. You may cover and refrigerate any leftovers. This recipe will serve 6-8 people.

Make this Weekend Brunch Casserole for your family. Or take it to your next Mother’s Day Brunch. I like to serve fresh fruit and scones with this dish such as Fresh Fruit Cocktail Salad  and Mixed Berry Scones.