Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that makes mornings easier and more delicious. Whether you are hosting a brunch, preparing for a holiday breakfast, or just looking for a make-ahead dish for a busy weekday, this casserole is a perfect choice. Combining savory breakfast sausage, melty cheese, and a rich egg mixture, it’s a filling dish that is guaranteed to satisfy. The best part? It can be assembled the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is bake it and serve.

This breakfast casserole has everything you need to start your day right: protein-packed sausage, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs. It’s the ultimate breakfast comfort food that is perfect for a crowd. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both easy to make and universally loved. Plus, it’s easily customizable—swap out the sausage for bacon or ham, or add your favorite veggies to make it your own. Whether you’re making it for a holiday celebration or a weekend breakfast, this Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole

• Convenient Make-Ahead Recipe: This casserole is perfect for busy mornings because you can prepare it the night before and bake it the next morning. The bread and egg mixture soak up all the flavors overnight, making it incredibly tasty and easy to bake.
• Great for Feeding a Crowd: If you’re hosting a family breakfast or brunch, this casserole is a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pan meal that serves multiple people, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak this recipe to fit your preferences. You can use different kinds of cheese, switch out the sausage for bacon or ham, and even add in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
• Comforting and Filling: With layers of savory sausage, cheese, and eggs, this casserole is both comforting and filling. It’s perfect for starting your day on a high note or for a special weekend treat.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or a Sunday family gathering, this casserole is a perfect addition to any meal. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it an ideal choice for special occasions.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf of day-old bread (such as French bread or brioche)
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (or bacon, or ham, if preferred)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• ½ cup diced onions (optional)
• 1 cup spinach (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread Base

Start by cutting your day-old bread into cubes. If you’re using French bread or brioche, the cubes should be about 1-2 inches in size. Day-old bread works best because it holds its shape when soaked in the egg mixture, whereas fresh bread may get too soggy. You can also lightly toast the bread cubes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to give them a bit of a firmer texture.

Place the cubed bread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If you prefer, you can also use a casserole dish that’s slightly smaller or larger, but the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and depth of the dish.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spatula into small crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking for 8-10 minutes, until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through. If you’re using bacon or ham, cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces.

After cooking, drain off any excess fat from the sausage and set the meat aside to cool for a few minutes. This step is important because it ensures the casserole won’t be greasy, and it helps the sausage flavors settle before adding it to the casserole.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk thoroughly until everything is well combined. This egg mixture will be poured over the bread and sausage, so make sure it’s well seasoned. For added flavor, you can include a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

If you’re using any other seasonings or herbs, like thyme or rosemary, now is the time to add them. The egg mixture serves as the base that binds the casserole together, so make sure it’s seasoned to your liking.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Once the bread cubes are evenly placed in the baking dish, layer the cooked sausage (or bacon/ham) over the bread. If you’re adding vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach, sprinkle them evenly over the meat layer. You can mix in other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes if you prefer.

Once the bread, sausage, and vegetables are arranged, pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole. Gently press down on the bread and other ingredients to help them soak up the egg mixture. This step ensures that all the bread gets coated and the casserole comes out nice and fluffy.

5. Refrigerate Overnight

After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This resting time allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture and absorb the flavors. If you’re short on time, you can let it sit for a minimum of 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.

6. Bake the Casserole

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps it bake more evenly. If desired, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole for a gooey, cheesy crust.

Bake the casserole for 35-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready to be served.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, colorful touch. Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole

• Use Day-Old Bread: Fresh bread may become too soggy when soaked overnight. Day-old bread, like French bread or brioche, is the best choice because it holds its shape better while still absorbing the egg mixture.
• Customize the Meat: While this recipe calls for breakfast sausage, you can easily swap it for bacon, ham, or turkey sausage, depending on your preference. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and load up on vegetables.
• Add Extra Flavor: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and seasonings. Try a mix of sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese, and use spices like paprika, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavor of the casserole.
• Make It Ahead of Time: The casserole can be prepared the night before, which makes it perfect for busy mornings. Just assemble it and refrigerate it overnight, and then bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your casserole while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking.

Variations of Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole

• Vegetarian Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole: Replace the breakfast sausage with vegetarian sausage or just add more vegetables. Consider using mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and texture.
• Bacon and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole: Swap the sausage for crispy bacon and use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, smoky flavor. You can also add green onions for extra freshness.
• Ham and Swiss Breakfast Casserole: For a different twist, try swapping the sausage for diced ham and using Swiss cheese. This combination creates a deliciously rich and savory casserole.
• Southwest Breakfast Casserole: Add a bit of spice with ingredients like diced green chilies, black beans, and corn. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Sweet Breakfast Casserole: For a sweeter version, use cinnamon-raisin bread and add some chopped apples or berries to the casserole. Top with a drizzle of maple syrup for a special treat.

Storage and Shelf Life

Leftover Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

If you have more leftovers than you can eat in a few days, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole

While this casserole is a meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance the richness of the casserole. Try mixing seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and melons.
• Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: If you want to add more protein to your breakfast, serve extra bacon or sausage links alongside the casserole.
• Hash Browns or Roasted Potatoes: For a more filling meal, serve the casserole with crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes.
• Freshly Squeezed Juice or Mimosas: A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a festive mimosa pairs perfectly with this hearty casserole.
• Yogurt Parfait: A yogurt parfait made with Greek yogurt, granola, and fresh berries is a lighter, healthier side dish that complements the richness of the casserole.

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Conclusion

Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying breakfast. The convenience of preparing it the night before makes it the perfect dish for busy mornings, family gatherings, or special occasions. With its rich, savory flavors and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for starting your day off right!