Versatile Omelet Casseroles

• Any combination of ingredients you would typically put in an omelet can be baked in a casserole. Always precook meats before baking them. Precooking vegetables is optional, depending on whether you prefer crunchy or soft vegetables. Make a Western omelet casserole with diced ham, onions, bell peppers and Monterey Jack cheese. Keep it simple by adding crumbled sausage and bacon to the bottom of your casserole dish. Beat eggs and milk together in a mixing bowl along with cheese and spices. Pour the egg mixture over the filling ingredients and bake at about 375 degrees Fahrenheit until the egg is thoroughly cooked, usually about 45 minutes.

Biscuits on the Bottom

• A biscuit crust produces a more filling option for those with heartier appetites. Simply press biscuit dough in the bottom of the casserole dish. Pour a mixture of beatten eggs and your choice of filling ingredients over the biscuits to fill the casserole dish. Bake the casserole until the biscuits are golden brown and the eggs are set, usually about 30 minutes at 375 F. Remove the casserole about 5 minutes before it's done cooking if you want to add a melted cheese topping. Try a biscuit casserole with egg and sausage filling, topped with your favorite breakfast gravy.

Hash-Brown Casseroles

• Hash browns and home fries are always a crowd pleaser, but they're among the most time-consuming and attention-demanding breakfast side dishes. A baked hash-brown casserole keeps your hands free to complete other tasks. Start with a bag of frozen hash browns or precook fresh shredded potatoes until soft. Ingredients you might stir into the hash-brown potatoes include cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, diced onions, shredded cheese and salt and pepper to taste. Bake until the potatoes, in their creamy mixture, are bubbling hot and the top is golden brown. Top with extra cheese, French fried onions, crushed crackers or crushed cornflakes and bake for another 5 minutes.

French Toast Bake

• Prepare French toast casserole the night before serving, allowing the bread to fully absorb the egg and cream for an almost custardlike texture. Use French sourdough or sweetbreads like brioche or challah to make the casserole special. Cut the bread into slices or cubes and distribute them evenly in the casserole dish. Prepare an egg mixture with cream and optional granulated sugar, cinnamon and vanilla extract. Pour the egg mixture over the bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake the covered casserole for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the cover and continue baking until the top is golden brown. Enhance a basic casserole with your favorite fresh fruit, fruit syrup or a powdered sugar glaze.