Frontier Breakfast: A Hearty, Homestyle Embrace

I remember the first time I tasted this Frontier Breakfast casserole. It wasn’t at a grand restaurant, but at a potluck hosted by a dear colleague, a woman whose kitchen was always filled with the comforting aroma of something delicious. She’d brought this seemingly simple, yet incredibly satisfying dish, and it instantly became a topic of conversation. While I’ve enjoyed her version many times, the true adventure, for me, lies in recreating that same warmth and robust flavor in my own kitchen, a culinary echo of that memorable gathering.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 10-15
• Yield: 1 9×13 inch casserole
• Dietary Type: Standard

Ingredients

To assemble this hearty breakfast, you’ll need:

• 2 packages of Pillsbury pie crusts, the kind that come folded in a box.
• 1 pound of sausage (pork, turkey, or your preferred blend).
• 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped.
• 1/2 cup picante sauce.
• 10 large eggs.
• 1/2 cup milk.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated.
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated.
• 1/4 cup canned green chilies, drained.
• 1/4 cup olives, drained and sliced.

Equipment Needed

You’ll find these essential tools helpful for preparing your Frontier Breakfast:

• A 9x13x2 inch baking pan.
• A large skillet for browning the sausage.
• A whisk or fork for beating the eggs.
• A large mixing bowl.
• A measuring cup and spoons.
• A spatula or spoon for layering.

Instructions

Embarking on the creation of this Frontier Breakfast is a straightforward, yet rewarding process. Follow these steps to achieve a delicious result:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by greasing your 9x13x2 inch baking pan thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the pie crusts from sticking and to ensure easy serving.
2. Layer the Pie Crusts: Carefully unwrap the two Pillsbury pie crusts. Lay them flat in the prepared baking pan, pressing them gently to line the bottom and sides. Don’t worry about perfect edges; a rustic look is part of its charm.
3. Brown the Sausage and Onion: In a large skillet, crumble the sausage and cook it over medium heat. As it browns, add the chopped green onion. Continue to cook until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is softened.
4. Drain and Layer: Once cooked, drain off any excess grease from the sausage and onion mixture. Spread this mixture evenly over the pie crusts in the baking pan.
5. Add the Picante Sauce: Next, spoon the picante sauce over the sausage and onion layer. Spread it out to create a uniform layer.
6. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 10 eggs. Add the 1/2 cup of milk. Beat the eggs and milk together vigorously with a whisk or fork until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
7. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients: To the beaten egg and milk mixture, add the grated cheddar cheese, grated Monterey Jack cheese, drained canned green chilies, and the drained, sliced olives. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture.
8. Pour and Bake: Pour this rich, cheesy egg mixture carefully over the picante sauce layer in the baking pan, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
9. Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 1 hour. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Frontier Breakfast from good to truly spectacular, consider these professional insights:

• Sausage Selection: While pork sausage is a classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with a spicier chorizo for an extra kick, or a leaner turkey sausage for a lighter option. Ensure the sausage is cooked through before draining to eliminate any raw meat concerns.
• Cheese Power: For an even richer and more complex cheese flavor, consider using a Mexican blend of cheeses or adding a touch of pepper jack for a subtle heat. Grating your own cheese from a block will also yield a superior melt and texture compared to pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Picante Sauce Nuances: The type of picante sauce you choose can significantly impact the final flavor. A mild salsa works well for a family-friendly option, while a medium or hot variety can add a delightful warmth. You can even make your own for ultimate control over spice and flavor.
• Green Chili Zing: If you enjoy a more pronounced green chili flavor, a quick sauté of fresh poblano or Anaheim peppers before adding them to the egg mixture can offer a more vibrant taste. Just be sure to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat.
• Olive Alternatives: While sliced black olives are traditional, Kalamata olives can offer a more briny and sophisticated flavor profile. If olives aren’t your preference, consider adding finely diced jalapeños for a fresh, spicy crunch.
• Crust Confidence: If you’re concerned about the bottom crust becoming soggy, you can pre-bake the pie crusts for about 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before adding the filling. This is known as blind baking and will help create a crispier base.
• Oven Quirks: Ovens can vary significantly. If you notice the top browning too quickly before the center is set, you can loosely tent the casserole with aluminum foil. Conversely, if it’s not browning enough, a few minutes under the broiler (watching very carefully!) can add that golden finish.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Frontier Breakfast is a magnificent centerpiece for any brunch or breakfast gathering. Serve it hot, directly from the oven, allowing it to rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This resting period helps the casserole set, making it easier to cut neat, tidy portions. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, some crispy bacon, or a side of home fries.

For storage, allow any leftovers to cool completely before refrigerating. Cover the baking pan tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the casserole into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, you can gently warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat a larger amount in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the top seems a little dry, a small splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream can help revive it. While delicious, this casserole is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze particularly well due to the egg and cheese components.

Nutritional Information

Please note that this nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	453.3 kcal
Calories from Fat	308 kcal
Total Fat	34.3 g	52%
Saturated Fat	13.5 g	67%
Cholesterol	261.4 mg	87%
Sodium	890.6 mg	37%
Total Carbohydrate	16.3 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	2%
Sugars	2.2 g	8%
Protein	19.2 g	38%

Variations & Substitutions

The beauty of a dish like Frontier Breakfast is its inherent adaptability. Feel free to customize it to your taste and pantry staples:

• Crustless Wonder: For a lighter, gluten-free option, omit the pie crusts altogether. You can lightly grease the pan and pour the filling directly in, or even bake it in individual ramekins.
• Vegetarian Delight: Swap the sausage for crumbled plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for a hearty vegetarian filling.
• Spicy Fiesta: Amp up the heat by using hot picante sauce, adding diced jalapeños, or incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the egg mixture.
• Herbaceous Notes: Fresh herbs can add another dimension. Consider adding chopped chives, parsley, or cilantro to the egg mixture for a burst of freshness.
• Cheese Choices: Beyond cheddar and Monterey Jack, try adding a touch of crumbled feta, shredded pepper jack, or even a bit of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this Frontier Breakfast ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the sausage and onion mixture and the cheese and chili mixture a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble and bake the casserole just before serving for optimal texture.

Q: What kind of milk should I use?
A: Whole milk will provide the richest flavor and texture, but 2% or even skim milk will work. Non-dairy milks like almond or soy can also be used, though they may slightly alter the flavor profile.

Q: My casserole is watery. What went wrong?
A: This can happen if the eggs aren’t fully cooked or if too many watery vegetables were added without draining them properly. Ensure your eggs are beaten thoroughly and that any added vegetables are well-drained.

Q: Can I use fresh chilies instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! If using fresh chilies like poblano or Anaheim, finely dice them and sauté them with the green onions and sausage. Remove seeds and membranes for less heat.

Q: How do I know if the casserole is fully cooked?
A: The center should be set, not jiggly, and a knife inserted near the middle should come out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed.

Final Thoughts

This Frontier Breakfast casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, comforting ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table, fosters conversation, and leaves everyone feeling satisfied and cared for. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and experience the hearty, homestyle embrace of this wonderful breakfast. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and any delicious variations you discover – happy cooking!