If you’ve been searching for a hearty, comforting brunch classic that pleases a crowd, look no further than this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe. Combining savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melty cheddar cheese, and the perfect texture of cubed, day-old bread, it’s a dish that wakes up your taste buds while feeling like a warm, cozy hug on your plate. This casserole is not just simple to make but delivers flavors and textures that everyone will rave about, whether it’s a relaxed weekend morning or a special holiday gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is delightfully straightforward, but each component plays a crucial role in building the dish’s rich and satisfying character. From the savory sausage to the creamy egg base and the sharp cheddar, every ingredient marries to create a perfect harmony of taste and texture.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite brand for a flavorful, seasoned meat base that’s essential to that classic breakfast taste.
- 6 large eggs: These set the custard-like foundation that soaks into the bread, providing both moisture and richness.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and ensures the casserole isn’t dry, balancing the savory and cheesy elements.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to give sharp, gooey pockets of flavor throughout the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle spice that rounds out the savory profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle depth and warmth without being too pungent.
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread: Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the egg mixture perfectly without turning soggy.
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional): A fresh, oniony finish that adds color and a light bite when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
First, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. This process develops rich, savory flavors and crisp bits that give your casserole that irresistible texture. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This egg custard is the heart of the casserole, soaking into the bread and balancing the flavors of cheese and sausage with creamy richness.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a sturdy but tender base for layering the rest of the ingredients.
Step 4: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Scatter the cooked sausage evenly over the bed of bread cubes, ensuring every bite has some meaty goodness. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top, which will melt and tie the layers together with its gooey, sharp flavor.
Step 5: Pour Egg Mixture
Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Gently press down on the layers to make sure the bread soaks up as much of the custard as possible—this step is key for a creamy interior without dryness.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil to lock in moisture and bake the casserole for 30 minutes. This initial cooking will set the custard so it’s tender and melt-in-your-mouth but not overdone.
Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the top to become beautifully golden and slightly crispy, providing an appetizing finish and textural contrast to the soft interior.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the optional chopped chives over the warm casserole for a fresh burst of color and mild onion flavor. Serve immediately while it’s perfectly warm, gooey, and deeply comforting.
How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a simple garnish like chopped chives adds a pop of green and a mild, fresh flavor that beautifully contrasts with the cheesy richness. You can also experiment with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with light, refreshing sides to balance out its richness. Think crisp fruit salad, roasted asparagus, or a tangy tomato salsa. For something more traditional, serve with buttered toast or crispy hash browns to round out the breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, slice the casserole into neat squares and serve on colorful plates with fresh herbs scattered around the edges for visual appeal. You can also portion it into individual ramekins before baking, offering personalized servings that are as charming as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together even more after resting, making leftovers almost better the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and keep it frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until hot and bubbly, or warm larger portions covered in a 350°F oven until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore moisture if the casserole has dried out a bit.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar offers a classic sharpness, feel free to try mozzarella for melty creaminess, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of cheeses to customize the flavor to your liking.
Is it okay to use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old bread works best because it’s slightly dried out and soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out in a low oven for 10 minutes to achieve the right texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the breakfast sausage for vegetarian sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. The rest of the ingredients and steps remain the same.
How far in advance can I assemble the casserole before baking?
You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate it. This overnight soaking time actually enhances the casserole’s flavor and texture—then just bake it fresh in the morning!
What if I want a spicier version of this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe?
Try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or using spicy sausage for extra heat. You can also top it with hot sauce or sriracha just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly a winner for any brunch or breakfast occasion, delivering warmth, flavor, and comfort in every bite. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and generously feeds a crowd. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience just how effortlessly delicious a home-cooked breakfast casserole can be. You’re going to want to keep this one on regular rotation!
Print
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish for weekend mornings or holiday brunches. Featuring savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and cubes of day-old bread soaked in a flavorful milk and spice mixture, this casserole bakes until golden and bubbly. Easy to prepare and delicious to eat, it serves as a comforting start to your day that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Mix Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the cubed day-old bread across the bottom of the dish.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture slowly over the layered ingredients, gently pressing down to help the bread soak up the liquid fully.
- Preheat Oven and Bake Covered: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center of the casserole is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped chives if desired, and serve warm for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old bread as it soaks up the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated before baking to save time in the morning.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
