Wake 'Em Up Breakfast Casserole

This recipe is from the book Devil's Food Cake by Josi S. Kilpack, and my friend made it for a potluck breakfast we had. It's delicious!

1 lb. sage sausasge or ham or crisp bacon

8 eggs

1/2 tsp. dry mustard powder or 1 tsp. prepared mustard

1 green pepper, diced

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

1 1/2 c. small-curd cottage cheese

1 c. shredded Swiss cheese

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese (sharp is best)

4 c. frozen shredded hash browns

1/2 c. of your favorite vegetable (optional) such as steamed broccoli, onions or mushrooms

In a skillet, brown sausage or cook bacon until crispy; drain well. In a large bowl combine eggs, mustard, green pepper, salt, pepper, and cottage cheese. mix until eggs are slightly beaten. Add cheeses and has browns, mix well. Add meat and any optional veggies. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes, or until center is well-set and edges are browned. Let sit for 10 minutes before cutting. Serves 8.

*The casserole can be made the night before and kept in the fridge. Add an additional 10 - 15 minutes to the baking time.

*You can bake in muffin tins to make individual casseroles that are perfect for brunch. Decrease cooking time to 25 - 35 minutes.