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Ever since I was a kid, summer meant casseroles. Mama Boudreaux always whipped somethin' up with whatever was fresh from the garden. This Sausage & Pepper Jack Summer Casserole is my take on that tradition, but with a little kick! Think of it as a warm hug on a plate – cheesy, comforting, and with just enough spice to keep things interesting. I remember one time, I tried to 'help' my grandma by adding extra cayenne pepper. Lets just say that version of the casserole wasn't very popular ha! I can't stop laughin when I think about it. No body else laughed though... But hey, we live and learn, right?
What sets this casserole apart? Well, besides the obvious deliciousness, it's incredibly versatile. Got some leftover grilled veggies? Toss 'em in! Not a fan of sausage? Ground beef or turkey work just as well. And pepper jack cheese? Oh, that’s just the star of the show. That creamy melt, that subtle zing – it's what makes this casserole sing! One of the best things about cookin' this casserole, is that it smells sooo good while cookin. If you are a parent, I bet you can get your kids to help you.
Required Equipments
9x13 inch baking dish
Large skillet
Large bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or spatula
Sausage and Pepper Jack Summer Casserole: Frequently Asked Questions
Sausage and Pepper Jack Summer Casserole
This Sausage & Pepper Jack Summer Casserole is a vibrant medley of flavors, perfect for a lazy brunch or a potluck. It combines spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and creamy pepper jack cheese for a dish that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Seriously, folks will be asking you for the recipe – it happened to me just last weekend at my cousin's barbecue!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:6 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important; don't skip it, ya hear?
Now, lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a bit of butter – whatever floats your boat. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make serving easier. We've all been there when the casserole sticks like glue! One time I broke my serving spoon tryna get some out lol. Now i spray like 4 layers
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon until it's nice and crumbly. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody likes a greasy casserole, now do they?
Add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until they're tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. The peppers should be slightly softened but still have a bit of bite. My mom always cooked em til they were mushy... I like em a little crispier
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure everything's well combined. I usually add a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick – but that’s optional, darlin'.
Add the cooked sausage and pepper mixture to the egg mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Pour half of the sausage and egg mixture into the greased baking dish.
Sprinkle half of the shredded pepper jack cheese over the mixture in the dish. Try to spread it evenly for that perfect cheesy layer.
Pour the remaining sausage and egg mixture over the cheese layer.
Top with the remaining shredded pepper jack cheese. Make sure it's evenly distributed for that golden-brown, bubbly crust we all crave.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. One time it came out dirty and I still ate it because I was too hungry. I don't advise that!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help it set up a bit and make it easier to cut. You can serve it as is or with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if you're feelin' fancy.
📝 Notes
Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
For a spicier kick, use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.