If you are looking for a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings everyone to the breakfast table with smiles, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and perfectly toasted bread cubes into a comforting casserole that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether for a weekend brunch or a holiday morning, this casserole fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and satisfies hungry appetites with every cheesy, sausage-filled bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to making this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe shine. Each component plays a role in balancing flavors and adding texture, creating that unforgettable breakfast you crave.
- Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Provides the rich, savory backbone with just the right amount of spice and fat to keep things juicy.
- Large eggs (6): The binding agent that holds all ingredients together while adding a fluffy, custardy texture.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and helps soak the bread cubes for that perfect tender bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts over the top, delivering classic sharpness and gooey goodness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor, balancing the richness of sausage and cheese.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a touch of heat and depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Brings subtle warmth and an inviting aroma that elevates the dish.
- Cubed day-old bread (4 cups): Acts as the casserole’s hearty base, soaking up the egg mixture for a soft but structured texture.
- Chopped chives (1 tablespoon, optional): A fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color when garnishing.
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your breakfast sausage until it’s browned and beautifully crumbled. This step is crucial because well-cooked sausage adds that savory, meaty layer everyone loves. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease so your casserole won’t turn too oily.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the six large eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is completely smooth. This mixture is what binds all the ingredients harmoniously and gives the casserole its creamy, custard-like consistency once baked.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray so your casserole won’t stick. Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the dish. The bread cubes act like sponges, soaking up all the flavors from the sausage, eggs, and cheese as they bake.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes first, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Next, add a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layering helps the flavors blend together while creating a cheesy crust on top once baked.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the seasoned egg mixture evenly over the layers. Press down gently on the entire casserole to help the bread soak up the liquid fully. This soaking process is what makes the casserole wonderfully moist without being soggy.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Covering the casserole traps steam, ensuring the eggs cook through evenly without drying out the top.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, until the top turns a gorgeous golden color and the center is set. This finishing step adds that needed golden crust and a slight crispness to contrast the soft interior.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped chives on top if you like a fresh herbal touch and a hint of vibrant green. Serve the casserole warm for the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color and subtle brightness that balances the richness of the casserole beautifully. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few slices of fresh avocado to elevate each bite even further.
Side Dishes
This sausage breakfast casserole loves company! Pair it with fresh fruit salad for a juicy contrast or a light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a more indulgent brunch, crispy hash browns or buttery toast make perfect companions.
Creative Ways to Present
You can portion the casserole into individual ramekins for a charming brunch presentation, or bake it in disposable trays to make serving at a crowd-friendly gathering effortless. For a festive twist, add colorful bell peppers or diced tomatoes between layers to brighten both the look and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This allows you to enjoy the deliciousness without any rush.
Freezing
You can freeze this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe after baking or even before, just make sure to wrap it well. If freezing beforehand, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until warmed through and bubbly. Microwaving works for a quick fix, but the oven method ensures the texture stays delightful without getting rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can swap in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you want a little spice. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.
What can I use instead of day-old bread?
If you don’t have day-old bread, fresh bread will work but consider toasting it lightly so it holds up better when soaked with the egg mixture. Even sturdy rolls or croissants can be delicious alternatives.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and sautéed bell peppers. The cheese and egg combo will still create a satisfying casserole.
How early can I assemble the casserole before baking?
For convenience, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning, adding about 5 to 10 extra minutes to the cooking time since it will start chilled.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding sautéed onions, spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers boosts nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook them beforehand to avoid extra moisture.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort all in one dish. It’s perfect for feeding family and friends on a relaxed morning or special occasion. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how this classic casserole becomes your new go-to breakfast favorite!
Print
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family brunch or breakfast gathering. It combines savory breakfast sausage with eggs, whole milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and cubed day-old bread to create a rich, cheesy casserole with a golden, crispy top. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole is ideal for prepping ahead of time and feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Meat
- 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
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Assemble the casserole: Top the bread cubes with the cooked sausage, then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Add the egg mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, pressing gently to ensure the bread is fully soaked and the mixture is well distributed.
- Bake covered: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally garnish with chopped chives and serve the casserole warm.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps the casserole absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a slightly lighter dish.
- For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble everything, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
