Name: Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Breakfast Sausage; 6 large Eggs; 1 cup Milk; 1.5 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 1 cup Bread Cubes

Okay, friends, let’s talk about breakfast – or brunch, or even a surprisingly satisfying dinner.Breakfast Casserole: Sausage and Egg.is one of those recipes that I’ve leaned on for years, especially when I need something hearty and healthy. What makes a good flavorful drink that doesn’t require sprinkling of water? If you’re a fan of strata or even breakfast quiche, prepare to meet your new best friend. What is that comforting, savory thing going on, but it’s a whole lot easier to throw together. When you have hungry mouths to feed, you’re a jerk. I promise, this will become a staple in your house too – it already is in mine!

What is a sausage and egg breakfast casserole?

Simply put, a Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole.is a baked dish brimming with savory goodness. Think of it as a deconstructed breakfast sandwich, but amplified to feed the crowd. What is essentially a layering of bread, cooked sausage, eggs, cheese, and custard that bakes. It’s mainly fried bread. What a golden, bubbly masterpiece. What is the beauty of this dish? Can you customize it with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, and even different types of sausage? What are some good ways to use up leftover bread in your fridge? What are some of the best recipes for the holidays?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What is a good way to start the day?

Flavor Explosion:What are some of the best combinations of savory sausage, rich eggs, and melty cheese? Is it that perfect balance of comforting and satisfying? I always find myself going back for seconds (and sometimes thirds)
Ridiculously EasyWhat are some of the best casseroles you have ever made? Most of the prep time is just chopping and crumbling. Even a novice cook can nail this one.
Budget FriendlyWhat are some of the ingredients that are common and affordable? What are some good ways to adapt this idea based on what you already have on hand? Bread, eggs, sausage – pantry staples!
Totally VersatileWhere does the fun begin? Can you substitute sausage for ham? What are some of the best cheeses? I even tried it once with a little bit of leftover roasted sweet potatoes and it was amazing!

What I love about this book is that it is so good.Breakfast Casserole: Sausage and Egg.How adaptable it is. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. While I adore eggs Benedict, this casserole is way less fussy and just as satisfying. Plus, it feeds a whole family with minimal effort. Is this recipe a winner?

How do I make a breakfast casserole?

Quick Overview

What is the easiest way to make a casserole? How do I cook sausage, bread, and whisking? What are some good ways to make the egg mixture. What is the best way to put everything in a baking dish and let the oven do its magic? What is the best way to rest your bread for the night? What is the best part of this recipe – prepares and cooks the next day!

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:

6 large eggs: Use the best quality eggs you can find. What are the ingredients that really make a difference in flavor and texture?
I usually use whole milk for richness, but 2% works just fine too. Is almond milk creamier?
What’s the best way to add salt to a recipe?
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a nice savory note.
1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic powder beautifully.
1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes. I prefer a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread. How do you keep a day-old bread from getting soggy?

For the Filling:

1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled. I like to use spicy sausage for a little kick, but mild works great too. How do I drain off grease after cooking?
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: 1 tbsp. Sharp cheddar is my go-to, but Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would be good.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that extra melty goodness.
What are some good ways to cook green onions? Can you substitute chives for arugula?

What is the step-

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking? I always do this first so that I don’t forget!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined. This creates the custard base for the casserole.

Step 3: Prepare Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the cooked and crumbled sausage, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Set aside. What is the flavor of this mixture?

Step 4: Combine

Add the bread to the egg mixture and toss gently to coat. Make sure all the bread is evenly moistened. Let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid. This step is crucial for a creamy, not dry, casserole.

Step 5: Assemble Casserole

If you have a large baking dish, pour half of the bread and egg mixture into it. Cover and refrigerate for 10 minutes. Set aside. Sprinkle half of the sausage and cheese mixture over the bread. If you have leftover bread and egg, top with the remaining bread mixture, then sprinkle with remaining sausage and cheese. I like to spread everything out evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it!

Step 7: Cool Slightly

Let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set up a bit and makes it easier to cut.

Step 8: Slice & Serve

Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. This is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of fruit or a dollop of sour cream. My family loves it with a sprinkle of hot sauce too!

What to Serve It With

This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

For Breakfast: Pair it with a strong cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. I also love to serve it with a side of fresh berries for a touch of sweetness. For a festive presentation, garnish with a sprig of rosemary or thyme.

For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread with a side of mimosas or a spicy Bloody Mary. Serve the casserole with a colorful salad or a platter of assorted pastries. Consider offering a variety of toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream, for guests to customize their slices.

As Dinner: I’ve even served this as a dinner party option. Serve the casserole with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the casserole. Follow with a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with caramel sauce.

My family has a tradition of serving this casserole every Christmas morning. We pair it with cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate for a truly decadent and memorable breakfast. No matter how you serve it, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure this Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time. Here are some of my top tips:

Bread Choice: Use a sturdy bread like sourdough, French bread, or even challah. These breads hold their shape well and don’t get too soggy. Avoid using soft breads like sandwich bread, as they can become mushy.

Sausage Selection: Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite. Spicy sausage adds a nice kick, while maple sausage adds a touch of sweetness. You can also use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a healthier option. Just make sure to cook it well!

Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to mix and match cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack are all great options. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and browning. I actually prefer gruyere over cheddar sometimes!

Vegetable Additions: Incorporate your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. Diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and spinach are all delicious additions. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole to soften them and enhance their flavor.

Overnight Soak: The overnight soak is crucial for a creamy and flavorful casserole. It allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a soft and custardy texture. If you’re short on time, you can soak it for at least 30 minutes.

Baking Time: Baking times can vary depending on your oven. Check the casserole after 30 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly. The casserole is done when it’s golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Preventing Soggy Casserole: If you’re worried about the casserole becoming soggy, you can toast the bread cubes lightly before adding them to the egg mixture. This will help them retain their shape and prevent them from absorbing too much liquid. I learned that the hard way!

Customizing Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or use different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor. I like to add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Room Temperature: I don’t recommend storing it at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate it as soon as possible.

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. The next day tastes even better!

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick and easy meal. If reheating from frozen, add some cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread. I recommend using a sturdy gluten-free bread that can hold its shape. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid, as gluten-free bread can sometimes be drier. Start with slightly less milk and add more if needed.

Do I need to peel the sausage?

That depends on the type of sausage you’re using. If you’re using sausage links with a casing, you’ll need to remove the casing before cooking and crumbling it. If you’re using bulk sausage, there’s no need to peel it. I never peel sausage unless it’s required – saves time!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! Grease a muffin tin and fill each cup with the bread and sausage mixture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and set. Muffin form is easy for individual servings!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

This casserole isn’t meant to be overly sweet, but you can adjust the sweetness level by using a different type of sausage. Maple sausage will add a touch of sweetness, while spicy sausage will add a kick. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey on top after baking.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

There are many delicious cheese options to try! Monterey Jack, Gruyere, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses would all be great substitutes for cheddar cheese. Choose a cheese that melts well and has a flavor you enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a hug on a plate, a comforting tradition, and a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any taste. It’s the perfect way to start a weekend, impress brunch guests, or even enjoy a cozy dinner. I truly hope you give this recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that I know you’ll come back to again and again. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other breakfast casseroles for more inspiration! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!