Turkey Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 450 g hot Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
• Butter, for greasing the pan
• 1 tbsp. l. olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 450g loaf rustic French or Italian bread, cut into 2.5cm thick cubes.
• 2 tbsp. grated gruyere (250 gr.)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1.5 tbsp chopped fresh chives, plus extra for serving

Preparation:

1. Grease a 4-quart baking dish with butter.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sausage, onion, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring, until the sausage is cooked through and crispy, and the onion and pepper are soft, about 6 minutes.
3. Place the bread in the prepared baking dish. Stir in the prepared minced meat and cheese, reserving some cheese for topping.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, chives, and some salt and pepper. Pour the mixture over the bread and toss briefly to distribute evenly. Sprinkle with the reserved cheese. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the pan from the refrigerator and let it sit for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 175°C.
6. Bake until the top is puffed and golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, about 1 hour. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve.