If you’re looking for a delicious and unique breakfast recipe that combines savory and fluffy elements, the Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby is a perfect choice. This delightful dish, a savory twist on the traditional sweet Dutch Baby, is a versatile and flavorful option for breakfast or brunch. Originating from German pancakes, the Dutch Baby is known for its puffy, golden-brown appearance and custard-like interior. In this recipe, we add a savory twist with herbs, sausage, and cheese, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients for Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of making this delectable dish, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby:
For the Dutch Baby:
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Sausage Filling:
- 8 ounces breakfast sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional)
How to Make Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or ovenproof frying pan in the oven to heat up while you prepare the batter. This will help the Dutch Baby rise and create a crispy edge.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a blender, combine the eggs, flour, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and garlic powder. Blend until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter should be slightly runny, similar to a pancake batter. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flour to fully hydrate.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage Filling
While the batter is resting, cook the sausage filling. In a medium skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook until it starts to brown. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the vegetables are softened and the sausage is fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and swirl it around until it melts and coats the bottom and sides. Pour the prepared batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly. Quickly add the cooked sausage mixture on top of the batter. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage mixture.
Place the skillet back into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Dutch Baby is puffed up and golden brown around the edges. The center should be set but still slightly soft.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the Dutch Baby from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and sliced green onions. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream on top. Slice into wedges and serve immediately. Enjoy your Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby while it’s still warm and puffy.
About the Main Ingredients
Eggs
Eggs are the cornerstone of this recipe, providing structure and richness to the Dutch Baby. They help create the puffy, airy texture that makes this dish so delightful. Eggs are also a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making this breakfast both delicious and nutritious.
Sausage
The breakfast sausage adds a savory and hearty element to the Dutch Baby. You can use pork, chicken, or turkey sausage depending on your preference. Sausage is seasoned with various spices and herbs, contributing to the overall flavor of the dish. For a healthier option, you can opt for leaner sausages.
Cheese
Cheese adds a rich, creamy texture and a burst of flavor to the Dutch Baby. In this recipe, we use both Parmesan and cheddar cheese. Parmesan cheese is known for its nutty and salty flavor, while cheddar adds a sharp and tangy taste. Cheese also helps to create a golden-brown crust on top.
Herbs and Spices
The combination of dried thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the Dutch Baby. These herbs provide an aromatic quality that complements the sausage and cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley and green onions add a fresh and vibrant finish to the dish.
Vegetables
Onions, bell peppers, and garlic add a wonderful depth of flavor and texture to the sausage filling. They also contribute to the nutritional value of the dish, providing vitamins, minerals, and fiber. You can customize the vegetables to suit your taste or use what’s available in your pantry.
The Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby is a delightful and savory breakfast dish that combines the best elements of a pancake and an omelet. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast treat. By understanding the role of each ingredient, you can appreciate the flavors and textures that make this dish so unique and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this Herb Sausage Cheese Dutch Baby is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
