Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole

Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is the ultimate morning comfort food, offering hearty flavors, satisfying textures, and the convenience of being a make-ahead dish. Perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or special gatherings, this casserole layers fluffy eggs, savory breakfast sausage, gooey cheese, and crusty bread to create a balanced and flavorful breakfast. Whether you’re serving this dish for brunch, holiday mornings, or meal-prepped breakfasts, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

This casserole is incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or seasonings. With simple ingredients and a stress-free preparation process, it’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the ability to prep it ahead of time makes it a lifesaver for busy mornings or entertaining guests.

The combination of sausage, eggs, and cheese makes this casserole rich in protein and flavor, providing a satisfying and energizing start to the day. It’s easy to see why this dish has earned its place as a breakfast and brunch staple. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

This casserole serves multiple people at once, making it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or holiday breakfasts.

2. Make-Ahead Convenience

Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free, ready-to-go meal.

3. Customizable

Easily tailor this recipe to your preferences by adding veggies, swapping meats, or experimenting with different cheeses.

4. Rich and Hearty Flavor

The combination of savory sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a comforting, flavorful dish that everyone will love.

5. Family-Friendly

With simple, familiar ingredients, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to breakfast recipe for busy families.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild, spicy, or turkey sausage)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups bread cubes (French bread, sourdough, or white bread, cut into 1-inch pieces)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and no longer pink.
3. Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Cheese Layers

1. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Use day-old bread if possible, as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming soggy.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes.
5. Layer the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese on top of the sausage.

Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers. Use a spatula to press the bread cubes down gently, ensuring they soak up the liquid.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients

If you’re adding vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole before baking.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and the eggs are fully set.
4. To check doneness, insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Breakfast Sausage

Breakfast sausage is the star protein in this dish, offering savory and slightly spiced flavors. Options include classic pork sausage, turkey sausage for a leaner alternative, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.

Eggs

Eggs are the binder for this casserole, creating a fluffy, custard-like texture. They provide a high-quality source of protein, making this dish filling and nutritious.

Cheese

A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan adds depth of flavor, creaminess, and the perfect melty texture. Cheddar contributes sharpness, mozzarella provides stretchiness, and Parmesan adds a savory, nutty note.

Bread

Bread acts as the foundation of the casserole, soaking up the egg mixture and adding structure. Day-old bread works best, as it absorbs the liquid without becoming mushy.

Technique Tips

1. Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture more effectively, preventing a soggy casserole.
2. Even Layers: Spread the sausage, cheese, and bread evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect mix of ingredients.
3. Press Down the Bread: Gently press the bread cubes into the egg mixture to ensure they absorb enough liquid for a consistent texture.
4. Test for Doneness: Check the center of the casserole with a knife to ensure the eggs are fully cooked. If the knife comes out clean, it’s ready.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable-Loaded Casserole: Add diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrients.
2. Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage and add a dash of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
3. Bacon Lover’s Casserole: Substitute cooked, crumbled bacon for the sausage or use a combination of both.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes.
5. Cheesy Upgrade: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a unique cheesy flavor twist.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing

1. Allow the baked casserole to cool completely.
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in a freezer-safe container.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Tip

Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes to retain its texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Events

1. Holiday Brunch: Serve with fresh fruit, orange juice, and mimosas for an elegant holiday breakfast spread.
2. Family Breakfast: Pair with hash browns or roasted potatoes and a side of bacon for a hearty, complete meal.
3. Potluck Favorite: Bring the casserole in a warm, covered dish to share with friends and family.
4. Meal Prep: Divide the casserole into individual portions and refrigerate or freeze for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

Special Equipment

1. 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for baking this casserole evenly.
2. Large Skillet: For browning the sausage efficiently.
3. Mixing Bowls: Use for preparing the egg mixture and combining ingredients.
4. Whisk: Ensures the eggs and milk are fully blended for a smooth custard texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning.

2. Can I freeze the unbaked casserole?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

3. What’s the best bread to use?

Day-old French bread, sourdough, or white sandwich bread works best, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soft.

4. Can I use turkey sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that works perfectly in this recipe.

5. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Use day-old bread and ensure the egg mixture is evenly absorbed before baking.

6. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes. Bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms are great options to add color, flavor, and nutrition.

7. Can I use a different cheese?

Of course! Try pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.

8. How long does the casserole stay fresh in the refrigerator?

The casserole will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, looking for a holiday breakfast centerpiece, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers on every level. With its customizable ingredients, make-ahead capability, and rich, satisfying taste, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

From its fluffy eggs and savory sausage to its melted cheese and hearty bread, every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it warm with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or a cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience. This versatile, crowd-pleasing dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

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