What is in a typical Irish breakfast?

A traditional Irish breakfast usually includes Irish sausages (bangers), rashers (Irish bacon), black and white pudding, fried eggs, grilled tomatoes, baked beans, and toast or soda bread. Potatoes, in the form of hash browns or boxty, are often included for extra heartiness.

What is the difference between a Scottish and Irish breakfast?

While both are hearty and filling, a Scottish breakfast often features haggis, tattie scones, and oatcakes. In contrast, an Irish breakfast includes black and white pudding, Irish sausages, and soda bread. Each reflects the distinct culinary traditions of their respective countries.

Why is it called a John Wayne casserole?

The John Wayne Casserole is named after the legendary actor who reportedly contributed the original recipe to a charity cookbook. It’s typically a southwestern dish with ground beef, cheese, peppers, and spices. While different from an Irish Breakfast Casserole, both are beloved for their comfort and bold flavors.

What’s the difference between a frittata and an egg casserole?

A frittata is cooked slowly, often starting on the stovetop and finishing in the oven, with all ingredients mixed into the eggs. An egg casserole is baked entirely in the oven, usually layered with potatoes, cheese, and meat, making it more structured.

Irish Breakfast Casserole: 6 Easy Steps For A Hearty Brunch

Description

This Irish Breakfast Casserole combines crispy potatoes, savory Irish sausage, and rich cheddar cheese, all baked together in a comforting, hearty dish. Perfect for brunch, holidays, or cozy mornings, this casserole brings the traditional flavors of an Irish breakfast to your table with ease.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Irish-style sausage (or pork sausage)
4 cups shredded potatoes (hash browns or Yukon Gold)
1 cup Irish cheddar cheese, shredded
6 large eggs
1 small sweet onion, diced
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 tsp rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (for creamier texture)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add diced onion and cook until soft. Stir in optional veggies if using.
Layer Ingredients: Spread half the shredded potatoes in the baking dish. Layer the sausage mixture on top, followed by half the shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese.
Add Eggs: In a bowl, whisk eggs with rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour evenly over the layered casserole.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and the center is set. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Customization: Swap sausage for bacon, corned beef, or vegetarian sausage. Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Cheese Options: Try mixing Irish cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for extra creaminess.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 215mg

Keywords: Irish breakfast casserole, savory breakfast bake, brunch casserole, St. Patrick’s Day brunch