There’s nothing quite like waking up to the delicious aroma of a pancake sausage casserole wafting through your home. This delightful breakfast dish combines fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and rich maple syrup, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that everyone will adore. If you’re looking for a scrumptious breakfast treat that’s easy to prepare, this pancake sausage casserole is your go-to recipe.
Growing up, Sunday mornings were reserved for special family breakfasts, and we often experimented with different recipes. One morning, my grandmother decided to combine our favorite pancakes with juicy sausage links. She served the concoction as a casserole, and it instantly became a family legend. Over the years, we refined the recipe, but it never lost its original charm or delicious taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pancake sausage casserole is ideal for busy mornings, offering an all-in-one solution that satisfies the whole family. Not only does it include the breakfast classics everyone loves, but it’s also incredibly versatile — perfect for brunch gatherings or weekday meal preps. The balance between sweet pancakes and savory sausage gives a unique twist, ensuring this dish stands out on any breakfast table.
Ingredients Notes
The key ingredients for this casserole include pancake mix, sausage links, eggs, milk, and maple syrup. For the pancake mix, opt for one you trust or make your own from scratch if you prefer a homemade touch. Use quality sausage for the best flavor; chicken or turkey sausage is a healthier alternative if desired. If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or agave nectar can work as sweet substitutes.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2
Cook the sausage links in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Once cooked, cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, prepare pancake batter according to package instructions, or use your favorite homemade recipe. Pour half of the batter into the baking dish.
Step 4
Spread the cooked sausage pieces evenly over the batter in the baking dish.
Step 5
Whisk together eggs, milk, and maple syrup, then pour this mixture over the sausage and pancake batter. Top with remaining pancake batter. Bake for 35-40 minutes until set. Serve warm.
Storage Options
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, cut into portions, wrap in parchment paper, and freeze in zip-lock bags for up to a month. To reheat, simply microwave or bake until heated through.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, replace sausage with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. If you’re avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free pancake mix. Add a spicy twist by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or serving with a spicy maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions
This dish shines as a brunch showstopper but pairs well with fresh fruit salad or a side of crisp bacon for a complete breakfast feast. Perfect for holidays when you need to impress a crowd with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since the dish will be cold.
What kind of sausage should I use? Any sausage you love will work well, from breakfast links to spicy Italian. Chicken or turkey sausages offer a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
How can I tell when the casserole is done? The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be sure not to overbake to keep it moist and delicious.
Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups pancake mix Use your favorite brand
- 1.5 cups milk
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 pound sausage cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together pancake mix, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in sausage and half of the cheese.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
