Let’s talk comfort food. What is the kind of comfort food that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a steaming hot chocolate? I just sigh and mug of coffee. What is a Sausage Breakfast Casserole? I know it’s the best way to get everyone around me. It’s a hug on tupperware, sunrise in baking dish, and the worst way I can get people around. What is the table on a Sunday morning? Is it a lifesaver? Think of it as a savory bread pudding’s cooler, more breakfast-y cousin. What is a Sausage Breakfast Casserole? What’s a good kick to start the day? Is this a staple, replacing pancakes and sourdough for holiday brunch?
What is a sausage breakfast casserole?
A Sausage Breakfast Casserole is essentially a layered baked dish featuring savory sausage, cheese, bread (or croissants – I’m partial to croissants, gives it a little something extra!), and a creamy egg custard base. Think of it as the breakfast version of lasagna, but way easier to throw together. It’s essentially a bread pudding that decided to go savory and hang out with sausage and cheddar cheese. What’s not to love? The name “Sausage Breakfast Casserole” pretty much sums it up, but the possibilities for customizing this dish are endless! You can add veggies, different cheeses, or even a little spice to make it your own. It’s like a blank canvas for breakfast deliciousness, and I’m here to guide you through creating a masterpiece. I’ve even tried different types of bread, and challah is a total winner if you have some on hand.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me tell you, this recipe has been a game-changer in my house, and I think it will be for you too! What I love most about this is its incredible flavor. The savory sausage perfectly complements the rich, creamy custard, and the bread soaks up all that goodness, creating a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. It’s also surprisingly simple to make. Don’t let the layers intimidate you; it’s basically dump, layer, and bake. Even on hectic mornings, I can usually manage to throw this together. Plus, it’s super cost-effective. You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge. And the best part? You can prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. Talk about a breakfast win! I love that it is so much easier than many breakfast recipes that I’ve come across. This dish is unbelievably versatile. You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even dinner! (Hey, no judgment here.) It’s also perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy weekend morning with the family. I often get asked to bring this to potlucks, and it disappears in minutes! It’s right up there with my french toast casserole recipe, but sometimes you want something a little more savory, right? This Sausage Breakfast Casserole definitely hits the spot. I seriously think you will add this to your rotation – I know I did!
How do you make a sausage casserole?
Quick Overview
What is the best Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe? What’s the best way to brown sausage, whisk together egg mixture, layer everything in a crockpot, and serve. Bake until golden brown and bubbly. Remove from oven. What is the beauty of this recipe? You can customize it to your liking. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Even if you mess up the layering a little bit, it will still taste amazing. What is the beauty of a good casserole?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 6 large eggs: Free-range is always best for flavor and color. * 2 cups milk: I’ve used whole milk, 2%, and even almond milk. I have used a lot of them. Is almond milk a good alternative to regular milk? * 1 teaspoon dry mustard: Adds a nice little tang that balances the richness. Don’t skip this! * 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. * 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth. Freshly ground is always best, if you can!
For the Filling:
* 1 pound breakfast sausage: I usually use mild sausage, but feel free to use hot sausage if you like a little kick. Brown it well and drain off any excess grease. * 6 cups cubed bread or croissants: What’s the best way to make stale What is a good way to use up leftover bread that’s starting to get hard? I love croissants for that extra buttery flavor. * 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup melted. Sharp cheddar gives it a nice bite, but you can use any cheese you like. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a mix! * Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onion and/or bell pepper: I usually sauté them with the sausage. Adds extra flavor and nutrients.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always use cooking spray, but you can also use butter or oil. How do you clean a casserole pan? Clean up later. Don’t skip this step!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps. The dry mustard is key here, it adds a subtle but delicious tang that cuts through the richness of the mustard. What is the difference between eggs and cheese? Trust me on this one.
Step 3: Prepare Filling
What is the best way to cook breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat? Once the sausage is cooked through, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole! If you’re using onion and/or bell pepper, sauté them with the sausage until softened. What’s the best way to add flavor to a dish?
Step 4: Layer the Casserole
Arrange half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, sausage, and cheese. This layering technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it looks pretty when it’s baked!
Step 5: Pour Egg Mixture
The egg mixture should be evenly distributed over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they are soaked with the egg mixture. What is the best way to make a moist and delicious casserole?
Step 6: Let it Sit (Optional)
For best results, cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the egg mixture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it if you can. The longer it sits, the better the flavor!
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Keep an eye on it! Every oven is different, so baking times may vary.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. How do you make it easier to cut and serve warm?
9. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is pretty much a meal in itself, but here are some ideas to round out your breakfast, brunch, or even dinner:
For Breakfast:Serve with fresh fruit like berries or melon. What are some good side dishes to serve with bacon or sausage links? What would be a good side dish with savory casserole?
For Brunch:Add a side salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Mimosas or Bellinis would be a festive addition. Think bright and bubbly!
As Dessert:Okay, maybe not *as* dessert, but after! What are some good ways to end a meal? If you’re feeling indulgent, a small slice of coffee cake would be perfect.
For Cozy Snacks: I like serving this with a simple side salad. It cuts through the richness of the casserole and makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
In my family, we always serve this with a big bowl of fresh fruit and bacon. I’ve been known to sneak a slice of this for dinner. I’ve also served this with a simple green salad for dinner when I feel too tired to eat. What is the best way to cook? What is the versatility of this recipe?
What are some tips for perfecting a sausage breakfast casserole?
What are some insider tips to take your Sausage Breakfast Casserole from good to good? Is there a I’ve made this recipe so many times, I have learned a few tricks along the way!
Bread Choice Matters: Why does breadWhat are the best ways to prevent a stale bread from turning into an unhealthy snack? Soggy casserole. The drier the bread, the better it will absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy. I like to leave my bread out overnight to dry out a bit.
Sausage Savvy:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage. Hot sausage adds a nice kick, while Italian sausage gives it more complex flavor. What are some good ways to brown a casserole?
Cheese Please:Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to get creative with your cheese selection. What are some good recipes for Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan? A combination of cheeses can add depth and complexity to the flavor.
Veggie Power:What are some good ways to add veggies to a casserole? What are some great vegetables to eat: onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and arugula? Sauté them before adding them to the casserole to soften them and release their flavors.
Spice It Up:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use hot sausage. What are some ways to add hot sauce to a salad? A little spice goes a long way.
Make-Ahead MagicCan you make this casserole ahead of time? What is the best way to assemble a product the night before and store it in the refrigerator? In the morning, pop it in the oven and bake. This is a lifesaver!
Don’t overbakOverbaking will result in a dry, rubbery casserole. Bake until casserole is golden brown and set, but still slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Got leftovers? No problem! This Sausage Breakfast Casserole stores well and reheats beautifully. Here are some tips to keep it fresh and delicious:
Room Temperature: I really don’t recommend leaving it out at room temp for more than two hours, just to be safe. If you’re serving it buffet-style, keep it in a warming dish or chafing dish to maintain a safe temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before refrigerating. This will help prevent condensation from forming and making the casserole soggy.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To thaw, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. You can also reheat it directly from frozen, but it will take longer to bake. I don’t suggest freezing it if you glazed it.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick and easy meal. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry. Adding a pat of butter or a splash of milk can help keep it moist.
I’ve found that the refrigerator is best for short-term storage. The freezer is great if you want to save it for later, but the texture may change slightly. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, friends! My family’s Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that becomes a family tradition, passed down from generation to generation. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why! This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is one of the best to have, and I cannot wait for you to make it and experience the same joy and love for it as I do!
If you’re looking for more easy and delicious breakfast recipes, be sure to check out my french toast casserole recipe too! It’s another family favorite.
Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share your own variations! I love seeing what you come up with.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast Sausage
- 6 cups Bread Cubes
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 4 large Eggs
- 1 cup Milk
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook sausage until browned, then drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine bread cubes, cheese, cooked sausage, eggs, and milk. Mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
