As the sun rises and bathes my kitchen in warm light, the tantalizing scent of a savory breakfast casserole fills the air, coaxing everyone out of bed. A dish born from the delightful chaos of weekend brunch, this Breakfast Casserole has become my go-to recipe for gatherings—easily feeding a crowd without the stress. Picture this: layers of crispy sausage, crunchy toasted bread, and gooey cheddar melded together with a rich, creamy egg mixture.
One morning, I found myself staring at a package of day-old bread and some leftover sausage from last night’s dinner, and that’s when the inspiration hit. What ensued was an effortless, fulfilling dish that transformed my humble kitchen into the heart of my home. Perfect for lazy Sundays or surprise guests, this Breakfast Casserole not only satisfies the appetite but also brings loved ones together around the table. Let me show you how to whip up this crowd-pleaser in just a little over an hour!
Why You'll Love This Breakfast Casserole
- This Breakfast Casserole is incredibly easy to assemble, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
- The combination of savory sausage and rich cheese creates a flavor explosion that everyone will rave about.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your preferences or use up leftovers.
- Visually, this casserole is stunning when it comes out of the oven, golden and bubbly, making it an impressive centerpiece for any brunch table.
Breakfast Casserole Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this delightful Breakfast Casserole that everyone will adore!
For the Sausage Layer
• Pork sausage – a flavorful base that adds richness; you can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
For the Bread Base
• Day-old bread cubes – perfect for soaking up the egg mixture; feel free to use any bread you have on hand!
For the Egg Mixture
• Large eggs – they form the delicious, creamy structure of the casserole.
• Whole milk – adds a rich creaminess; substitute with a plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.
• Heavy cream – enhances the casserole’s luxurious texture; half-and-half can be used if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors; adjust to taste if you’re watching your sodium.
• Black pepper – adds a mild kick; fresh ground pepper elevates the meal.
• Dry mustard powder – adds a subtle tang that complements the cheese and sausage.
For the Cheese
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese – brings that gooey, melty goodness; mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
This Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home!
How to Make Breakfast Casserole
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Preheat oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This sets the stage for a perfectly baked casserole!
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Toast bread: Spread the day-old bread cubes across a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re lightly toasted and dry—this adds a lovely texture!
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Cook sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the pork sausage until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then sprinkle the sausage evenly over the toasted bread cubes.
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Add cheese: Generously sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage and bread. The melted cheese will create the decadent layers you crave!
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Mix eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and dry mustard powder until combined. This creamy mixture binds everything beautifully!
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Combine layers: Gently pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread layers in the baking dish. Don’t forget to top it with the remaining cheese for that golden finish!
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Bake casserole: Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly—a true breakfast feast!
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Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking. This makes slicing easier and ensures each piece holds together nicely.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Breakfast Casserole preparations are a dream for busy home cooks! You can assemble the layers up to 24 hours in advance, covering your baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. Simply toast the bread cubes, cook the sausage, and layer them with cheese and the egg mixture as directed. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and pop it in for 40-50 minutes—it’ll taste just as delicious as if made fresh that morning! For optimal flavor, consider refrigerating the casserole overnight to allow the ingredients to meld, ensuring a perfectly hearty meal with minimal effort.
What to Serve with Breakfast Casserole?
As the rich aroma of your Breakfast Casserole fills the air, it’s time to think about the delightful accompaniments that will round out your meal.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole, enlivening each bite.
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Crispy Bacon: Extra crispy strips of bacon introduce a smoky, salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy layers of the casserole.
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Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns offer a satisfying crunch, making breakfast feel like a hearty feast.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread creates a trendsetting combination; its creaminess complements the casserole’s rich textures.
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Herbed Yogurt Dip: A dollop of tangy herbed yogurt brings a cool and zesty touch, balancing the richness of each serving.
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Coffee or Tea: A robust cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the comforting experience, making these flavors sing together at brunch.
Each of these options not only elevates the Breakfast Casserole experience but also turns your meal into a memorable gathering with friends or family.
Breakfast Casserole Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this Breakfast Casserole; it’s begging for some fun modifications!
- Vegetable Boost: Add 1-2 cups of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a nutritious twist. They’ll bring color and freshness to every slice!
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage layer for some heat. This will awaken your taste buds and pack a flavorful punch!
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, or thyme into the egg mixture to elevate the aroma and flavor profile. It adds a delightful freshness that brightens the dish.
- Cheese Variance: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta cheese for a delightful twist on flavor. Each option brings its own unique charm to the casserole!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread cubes to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. It’s just as satisfying and delicious!
- Meat Options: Try substituting the pork sausage with crumbled turkey sausage or cooked bacon for an alternative protein source. Each brings its own savory essence!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of whole milk and heavy cream for a dairy-free version. It will still be creamy without compromising on taste.
- Savory Muffins: For a fun twist, serve the casserole topped with crumbled, savory muffins like cornbread or herb biscuits for added texture and flavor contrast!
With these variations, the possibilities feel endless, and you can truly make this Breakfast Casserole your own!
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Casserole
Fridge: Refrigerate your Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Portioning: Consider slicing the casserole into individual portions before freezing for easy reheating and serving—perfect for busy mornings!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing the Breakfast Casserole, make sure your bread cubes are day-old to absorb the egg mixture better and achieve a perfect texture.
- Avoid overcooking the sausage; it should just be browned since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined for a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Keep an eye on the casserole during baking, as ovens can vary; a clean knife inserted in the center confirms it’s done, so don’t hesitate to check a few minutes early.
Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for this Breakfast Casserole?
I recommend using day-old bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture beautifully and maintains a lovely texture. However, you can use any bread you have on hand—sourdough, whole wheat, or even bagels work well!
How should I store leftover Breakfast Casserole?
Store your Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make it soggy.
Can I freeze Breakfast Casserole? How do I do it?
Absolutely! For best results, let the casserole cool completely, then slice it into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes.
What if my casserole isn’t set in the middle?
No worries! If the center of your Breakfast Casserole is still jiggly after the recommended cooking time, simply return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the top to make sure it doesn’t over-brown. A knife or toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
Is this Breakfast Casserole suitable for dietary restrictions?
You can easily modify this recipe to suit various dietary needs! For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives. If you have a sausage allergy, I highly recommend using a substitute like mushrooms or plant-based sausage to maintain that delicious flavor. Always double-check labels when using alternatives!
How can I add more flavor or variation to my Breakfast Casserole?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add chopped veggies, like bell peppers, onions, or spinach, to the sausage layer. Fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, sprinkled over the top can elevate the flavors even more. You could also experiment with different types of cheese for added depth!
Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread day-old bread cubes across a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly toasted.
- In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease and sprinkle sausage over the toasted bread cubes.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and bread.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over sausage and bread layers in the baking dish. Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake casserole for 40-50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
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