Maple Pecan Christmas Breakfast Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, removed from casings
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup, plus more for drizzling
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal), cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet over the sausage and vegetables.
6. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the skillet cool slightly before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and drizzle with additional maple syrup, if desired.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
A Christmas Morning Delight
This Maple Pecan Christmas Breakfast Skillet is the perfect way to start your holiday morning. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The combination of savory sausage, sweet maple syrup, and crunchy pecans makes for a truly unforgettable breakfast experience.
### The Perfect Skillet Choice
Choosing the right skillet is essential for a successful breakfast skillet. Cast iron is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and can go directly from the stovetop to the oven. However, any oven-safe skillet will work. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients.
### Customizing Your Skillet
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. If you’re not a fan of sausage, you can substitute it with bacon, ham, or chorizo. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
### Make-Ahead Options
This breakfast skillet can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the skillet as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
Elevating the Flavor Profile
The combination of maple and pecans is a classic for a reason. The sweetness of the maple syrup complements the nutty flavor of the pecans perfectly. However, there are other ways to elevate the flavor profile of this breakfast skillet.
### Selecting Your Maple Syrup
Using high-quality, pure maple syrup will make a significant difference in the taste of your breakfast skillet. Avoid using imitation syrups, which are often made with corn syrup and artificial flavors. Look for maple syrup that is graded as “Grade A: Dark Color, Robust Taste.”
### Toasting the Pecans
Toasting the pecans before adding them to the skillet will enhance their flavor and add a satisfying crunch. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
### Adding a Touch of Spice
In addition to cinnamon and nutmeg, you can add other spices to the egg mixture to enhance the flavor of your breakfast skillet. A pinch of cardamom, ginger, or allspice would all be delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Maple Pecan Christmas Breakfast Skillet is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few suggestions:
### Complementary Side Dishes
Fresh fruit, such as berries, melon, or grapes, makes a light and refreshing side dish. Toast or muffins are also a great addition to round out the meal. Consider serving with a side of crispy bacon for added heartiness.
### Beverage Pairings
Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa are all classic breakfast beverages that pair well with this skillet. For a festive touch, try serving with mimosas or a sparkling cranberry juice. A simple glass of orange juice is always a good choice, too.
### Garnish Ideas
Garnishing your breakfast skillet adds a touch of elegance and makes it even more appealing. Fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar are all great options. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream also adds a touch of sweetness.
Tips and Tricks for Skillet Success
Making a breakfast skillet is relatively easy, but there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve skillet success.
### Preventing a Soggy Skillet
To prevent your skillet from becoming soggy, make sure to drain off any excess grease from the sausage after cooking. Also, avoid overcooking the vegetables, as they will release moisture. Using a good quality cheese that melts well is key.
### Ensuring Even Cooking
For even cooking, use an oven-safe skillet that distributes heat evenly. If your skillet is not oven-safe, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish before baking. Make sure to spread the ingredients evenly in the skillet before baking.
### Storage and Reheating
Leftover breakfast skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire skillet in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Variations and Adaptations
This Maple Pecan Christmas Breakfast Skillet is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences.
### Gluten-Free Option
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the sausage you are using is gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
### Dairy-Free Option
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk with a dairy-free milk alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative.
### Vegetarian Option
To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also add a plant-based meat substitute.
FAQ
Is it possible to assemble this the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the skillet the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Bake as directed in the morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even a combination of nuts would work well in this skillet.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish before baking.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
