A hearty and satisfying breakfast dish with layers of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and gooey cheese—all baked to perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole is everything you need to start the day off right. It’s simple, comforting, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, meal-prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd during the holidays, this casserole is always a winner. The best part? You can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, making your mornings stress-free and delicious!
Ingredients
Here’s a peek at what goes into this hearty casserole:
- Breakfast sausage (crumbled and cooked)
- Eggs
- Milk or cream
- Shredded cheese (cheddar works beautifully)
- Day-old bread cubes or hash browns
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder
Find the full list of ingredients and exact measurements in the recipe card below.
Directions
- Prepare the sausage: Cook and crumble the breakfast sausage in a skillet. Set it aside to cool slightly.
- Mix the egg custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and seasonings.
- Layer the casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer the bread cubes or hash browns, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use stale bread: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without turning soggy.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!
- Test for doneness: Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Vegetarian option: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for some heat.
- Cheese choices: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread or skip the bread altogether and stick with hash browns.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Fresh fruit salad or a side of mixed berries
- A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Warm biscuits or buttery croissants
- Orange juice, coffee, or a mimosa for a brunch-ready spread
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works just as well in this recipe.
2. What’s the best size for the baking dish?
An 8×8 or 9×13 dish works great, depending on how thick you want the casserole to be. Adjust the baking time slightly for a deeper dish.
3. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Can this casserole be made dairy-free?
Yes! Use a non-dairy milk alternative (like almond or oat milk) and dairy-free cheese to make this casserole suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Conclusion
This Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings or special occasions. With its savory layers of sausage, eggs, and cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Ready to dig in? Preheat that oven and let’s make some magic!
PrintClassic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole is the ultimate breakfast comfort food. With layers of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and soft bread cubes, it’s a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for brunch gatherings, holidays, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly toasted)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring all the bread is soaked.
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Notes
- For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- Add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Substitute the sausage with cooked bacon, ham, or a plant-based alternative for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: ~380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 240mg