If you’re on the lookout for a hearty, crowd-pleasing weekend treat, look no further than this Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s that perfect comfort food dish that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melty cheddar cheese, and soft bread, all baked together into a warm, satisfying casserole. Whether you’re feeding a large family or prepping for a brunch gathering with friends, this recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal fuss, making your morning feel extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a memorable breakfast casserole. What’s great about this dish is how straightforward everything is — each ingredient plays a role in building layers of taste and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor and a little spicy kick—choose your favorite variety for the best results.
- 8 large eggs: The essential binder that holds all the flavors together and gives the casserole its fluffy structure.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and moisture, helping the bread soak up that delicious custard mixture.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, giving every bite a gooey, cheesy surprise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors, but use sparingly if your sausage is already salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth to the dish.
- 6 slices white sandwich bread, cubed: The soft base that soaks up the egg custard and sausage juices, providing tender bites.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): Offers a fresh, bright color and subtle herbal note when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the breakfast sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. This step releases all the savory sausage fats, which will ultimately infuse the casserole with rich flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Layer
While the sausage is cooking, cube the white sandwich bread into bite-sized pieces. Layer them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This bread base is what gives the casserole its wonderfully soft texture after soaking in the egg mixture.
Step 3: Assemble Sausage and Cheese Layers
Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread, then top it all off with the shredded cheddar cheese. The combination of savory sausage and sharp cheddar is what truly makes this casserole shine.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined and smooth. This custard is what binds the casserole and penetrates the bread, sausage, and cheese layers, creating a soft-yet-structured final texture.
Step 5: Combine and Refrigerate
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled casserole. Gently press the layers with a spatula to help the bread absorb all that tasty liquid. Cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight — this waiting period lets the flavors meld beautifully and the bread soak up all the custard goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and pop the casserole into the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the egg is set in the center. The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the kitchen eager to dive in.
Step 7: Let it Rest and Garnish
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This brief rest helps it set perfectly. If you like, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh burst of color and flavor that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your casserole from delicious to divine. Fresh chopped parsley is a classic choice that adds a lovely pop of green and a mild herbaceous note. If you want to get more creative, sprinkle some sliced green onions or a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky touch.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair the casserole with crisp fruit salad or fresh slices of avocado for a bright contrast. A side of roasted potatoes or some lightly sautéed greens can also balance the richness of the casserole while keeping the meal hearty and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting brunch? Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant, personalized touch. You can also slice it into bite-sized squares for an easy-to-eat finger food option at parties. Either way, the crowd will be wowed by this irresistible savory delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got some leftovers? Simply cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It should keep well for up to 3 days without losing its flavor or texture, perfect for quick breakfasts later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish even more convenient, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual portions or the whole casserole tightly in freezer-safe wrap and store for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm your portion in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes to avoid drying out. Either method restores that fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bread with a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite gluten-free bread in the same cubed form. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will remain just as comforting and tasty.
Is it possible to use turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative. It will keep the casserole flavorful while reducing some of the fat content, making it a lighter option.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before and bake the next morning?
Definitely. In fact, refrigerating it overnight enhances the flavors and allows the bread to soak better. Just take it out of the fridge while your oven preheats to get even baking results.
What cheese other than cheddar can I use?
Feel free to get creative here. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp Colby cheese can work wonderfully, depending on your preference for melty texture and flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
You want the top to be nicely golden and the eggs set completely. A good test is inserting a knife or toothpick in the center — it should come out clean. The casserole should also feel firm to the touch, not jiggly.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and ease to your breakfast table. From the savory sausage to the gooey cheese and soft bread soaked in fluffy eggs, it’s a combination that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to give this recipe a try, especially when you want to impress your loved ones with a dish that feels homemade and special without hours of effort. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole perfect for feeding a crowd. This make-ahead dish features browned breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and soft bread cubes baked to golden perfection. Ideal for brunch or a weekend breakfast, it’s easy to prepare, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices white sandwich bread, cubed
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and crumbled into small pieces. Drain any excess grease from the pan and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the bread layer: Cut the white sandwich bread into cubes and evenly layer them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base of the casserole.
- Add sausage and cheese: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer.
- Mix egg custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Gently press down the layers with a spatula or spoon to ensure the bread absorbs the egg custard.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak thoroughly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
- Rest and garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if desired before serving.
Notes
- For best results, prepare the casserole the night before to let the bread fully absorb the egg mixture.
- Use day-old bread if possible to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with other types like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Feel free to add veggies such as diced bell peppers or onions into the sausage layer for extra nutrition.
- This casserole freezes well; bake fully, cool, then freeze in portions. Reheat in the oven before serving.
