I am not a fearful person in general. I love heights. I might even like heights too much, since I always have the urge to inch up right to the edge of whatever tall thing I'm standing on and imagine what it would feel like to jump off. (Please don't analyse that...) I like scary movies, dangerous parking-lot-carnival roller coasters, sharp power tools, and creepy-crawly creatures, to name a few.
But there is one thing that sends me in to a panic-induced cold sweat whenever I think about it. And that is: a meal sign-up. You know, those opportunities that we church ladies have so often to "bless a new mommy with a meal" or "bring a dish to share" or "pot luck" or "bible study snack rotation". I think I'm getting hives even typing this.
I don't know which of the variables in these situations causes the most pain. What if they don't like the kind of food I like? What if I burn it? What if it's undercooked? What if I make them sick? What if they had the exact same meal from three other people? What if the kids won't eat it? What if they think I have no idea what I'm doing in the kitchen!
This series of freak-out-causing questions is why I usually avoid these situations altogether. Or at the very least I take something I can't mess up. How would you like some bagels and cream cheese? A pre-cut tray of veggies and dip? Could a pick up a box of cereal and milk for you? Have a pizza delivered? I know I'm not the only one, although we casserole-phobes tend to think that we are alone in our ineptitude.
And it is you--my fellow sign-up-avoiding sister--for whom I am writing this post. You are not alone. You can do this. It's time to dust off your hot pads, because I have found the perfect recipe for you. People will like it.
And it is really really easy.
So here it is:
Best Ever Bacon, Potato, and Egg Casserole
1 lb bacon
6 eggs, beaten
4 cups frozen hash-browns, thawed
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup of shredded swiss cheese
1 1/2 cups cottage cheese
Directions: Chop up the bacon into 1-inch pieces. Cook until just crispy, then drain fat and set aside. Mix eggs, potatoes, and cheese in a large bowl. Stir in bacon. Pour mixture into a greased 9x12 pan and bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.
That's it!
In the sea of frozen lasagnas and gooey burritos, any new momma would be thrilled to accept this hearty breakfast treat. (Wait until the baby is two months old, and cook it in a disposable pan for extra points.)
I've tried this casserole at home, on retreats, and at a ladies' bible study brunch, and it has gone over very well in every case. And unlike the bread-based egg casseroles that are similar, you don't have to soak this one overnight.
So it's great for forgetful procrastinators, too.
Not that I know anything about that...
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This post is part of my 2013 resolution to get more comfortable in the kitchen. Read about that here, and find more recipes here. It doesn't have to be from scratch to bless your family.
