A comforting and flavorful casserole that embodies the spirit of the Kentucky Derby with a savory blend of cornbread, sausage, and rich flavors seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 (8.5-ounce) package cornbread mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, eggs, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined.
Gently fold the sausage and vegetable mixture into the cornbread batter, then fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven until melted.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.