Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• Cooking spray
• 1 lb fresh Mexican chorizo, casings removed
• 1 orange bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 poblano chile, finely chopped
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 2 teaspoons garlic salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup shredded mild Cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper Jack or quesadilla cheese
• 5 cups refrigerated shredded hash browns

For Topping:

• 2 avocados, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions

Steps to Prepare

Preparation

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Chorizo and Veggies: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. In the same skillet, sauté the orange bell pepper and poblano chile until tender.

Assemble the Casserole

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, garlic salt, onion powder, black pepper, and chili powder.
4. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the shredded hash browns evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Layer the cooked chorizo and sautéed vegetables over the potatoes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with shredded cheeses.

Bake

5. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

Serve

6. Garnish and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing. Top with avocado slices and scallions before serving.

Prep Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings

Serves 6–8

Calories

Approximately 420 kcal per serving (based on 8 servings).

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Cheesy Chorizo Breakfast Casserole embodies the essence of a timeless recipe. Its appeal lies in its versatility and ability to bring people together. It’s a dish you can make ahead for convenience, yet it has the warmth and freshness of a home-cooked meal. Casseroles have a universal charm, evoking memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday mornings. By incorporating bold, modern flavors like chorizo and poblano peppers, this dish bridges tradition and innovation.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the chorizo with Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. The next morning, bake it as directed.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, the casserole freezes well. Store portions in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

• Use high-quality chorizo for maximum flavor.
• Ensure your hash browns are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
• Customize the cheese blend based on your preference—Monterey Jack and Colby work beautifully.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Chorizo Breakfast Casserole is much more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a culinary experience that brings people together in ways few meals can. With its hearty layers of flavor, it promises a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfy not only hunger but also the soul. Every bite tells a story, from the smoky, spicy warmth of the chorizo to the creamy richness of eggs and cheese, balanced beautifully by the comforting crispness of golden hash browns.

What makes this dish so memorable is its versatility. It fits seamlessly into a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a festive holiday brunch, preparing a special breakfast for a loved one, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary on a quiet morning. Its vibrant, colorful presentation also makes it a centerpiece-worthy dish that adds warmth and joy to your table.

Moreover, the casserole embodies the perfect balance of indulgence and practicality. It’s a make-ahead marvel that simplifies your mornings without compromising on taste or quality. For families, it’s a time-saving solution that still feels luxurious. For gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences with just a few simple tweaks.

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, this casserole resonates with something deeper: the sense of connection that comes from sharing a meal. Food is love in tangible form, and a dish like this—nourishing, comforting, and full of character—creates moments of togetherness that linger in memory long after the last bite. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a tradition, one that you turn to time and again because it never fails to deliver happiness.