This Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a warm and tasty dish packed with fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and crispy bread. It’s perfect for a hearty morning meal!
It’s simple to make, and the best part? You can prepare it the night before! Just pop it in the oven the next day and enjoy the delicious smells as it warms up. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great, too!
Eggs: Large eggs are standard here, but if you’re looking to cut cholesterol, you could use egg whites or an egg substitute.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but feel free to use skim milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or soy milk if preferred.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can switch it up with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a pepper jack for a kick.
Bread: Day-old white or country bread works well, but you can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even croissants for a twist on texture. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture.
How Do You Ensure a Perfectly Set Casserole?
Getting the casserole to set just right can be a bit tricky. You want it cooked through but not rubbery!
- Keep an eye on the baking time—40-50 minutes should do it, but check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Look for a golden-brown top and a firm center; a slight jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t be overly wet.
- Letting it rest for 5 minutes after taking it out of the oven allows it to continue setting up and makes slicing easier.
With these tips, your Breakfast Sausage Casserole will turn out delicious and perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Breakfast Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old white or country bread works well)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-50 minutes to bake. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour in the kitchen, plus a few minutes for the casserole to cool before serving. Ideal for a delicious breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Stir it as it cooks to break it into small pieces. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Add in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Continue whisking until well blended.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Next, add the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Don’t forget to set aside about 1/2 cup of cheese for later! Toss in the chopped green onions too. Give everything a gentle stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheddar cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy finish.
6. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it, especially toward the end of baking!
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes—it will be easier to slice this way!
8. Garnish and Serve:
For a finishing touch, garnish with extra green onions and fresh parsley if you desire. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole that’s sure to please your family and friends!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen sausage, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight, or you can use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge the next day.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or oven until heated through!
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Bread?
If you’re out of bread or want to switch it up, you can use croissants for a buttery texture or even oatmeal for a healthier option. Just make sure that whatever you use can soak up the egg mixture well!