Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the perfect morning dish that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese to create a comforting meal. It’s especially popular during holidays like Christmas morning, as it’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and can be customized to fit anyone’s taste. Not only is this dish perfect for special occasions like a holiday breakfast or Easter brunch, but it’s also great for busy mornings. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—it works as a make-ahead breakfast, an overnight casserole, or even as a quick and simple breakfast bake. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious breakfast casserole that’s sure to impress!
Chef Olivia’s Notes
I love making this sausage breakfast casserole because it’s so easy to adapt based on what you have on hand. For instance, if you don’t have pork sausage, you can use turkey sausage or even a plant-based version. I’ve made this casserole with extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to add a healthy twist. In fact, adding onions or garlic can elevate the flavors even more. The key is using high-quality ingredients—good sausage makes all the difference. One of my favorite tips is to assemble the casserole the night before. In other words, it’s a perfect make-ahead breakfast that you just pop into the oven the next day. This way, you can focus on enjoying your holiday morning instead of spending time in the kitchen.
History of the Recipe
The origin of the breakfast casserole can be traced back to humble home kitchens where using leftovers to create something filling and hearty was common. The sausage variant became popular because it packs so much flavor and protein into a single dish, making it an ideal breakfast choice. Over time, families adapted the dish for holidays, and today, it’s a staple in many households for Christmas breakfast or other special occasions. Different regions have their versions, such as incorporating spicy sausage in the South or adding hash browns in the Midwest for a hash brown casserole variation. No matter how it’s prepared, this dish has earned its spot on the breakfast table thanks to its comforting, hearty nature.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need just a few ingredients:
- 1 pound of ground pork sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
- 4 cups of cubed white bread
Optional add-ins include:
- Vegetables like peppers, onions, or spinach
- Different types of cheese like Swiss or mozzarella
- Bacon or ham for an extra savory touch
The sausage and egg combo is the heart of this dish, but feel free to mix in whatever extras you like. In particular, using gluten-free bread or dairy-free cheese makes it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Extras for Serving
When it’s time to serve, I like to garnish my cheesy casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of color. You could also serve it with salsa or hot sauce for a little kick! In addition, pairing this casserole with a light fruit salad or some yogurt balances out the richness of the dish. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family breakfast or a holiday brunch, these extras really round out the meal and offer something for everyone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation:
First, cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. If you’re adding veggies, throw them in with the sausage and cook until they’re tender. Tear or cut your bread into small cubes and place them in a greased casserole dish.
Layering the Casserole:
Next, layer the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread cubes. In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers, ensuring everything is soaked well.
Baking:
Now, you can cover and refrigerate the dish overnight if you want to make it ahead. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the eggs are set, and the top is golden brown. If the top starts to brown too fast, loosely cover it with foil to prevent over-browning. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Make-Ahead Tip: The best part about this dish is that you can assemble it the night before. By letting it sit overnight, the flavors meld together beautifully, and it’s one less thing to worry about in the morning. Furthermore, you can simply pop it into the oven when you wake up.
Customization Ideas: You can easily swap out ingredients to make this casserole fit your preferences. For instance, use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version, or add more vegetables like mushrooms or tomatoes for a healthier option.
Freezing & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in the freezer. Simply cut the casserole into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. To reheat, bake the portions in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, and they’ll be good as new!
Variations of the Recipe
Low-Carb Version: If you want to skip the bread, use cauliflower instead. The casserole still holds together well and is just as tasty!
Mexican Style: Give your casserole a south-of-the-border twist by adding diced green chilies, salsa, and pepper jack cheese. A dollop of sour cream on top adds the finishing touch.
Spicy Kick: For those who like heat, use spicy sausage and throw in a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, you can make it extra mild by sticking with basic ingredients.
Prep Time and Cook Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
Yield: One 9×13-inch casserole, serving 6-8 people
Recipe Category
- Cuisine: American
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baked
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Total Fat: 25g (30% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 180mg (60% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 700mg (30% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrate: 15g (5% Daily Value)
- Protein: 18g (35% Daily Value)
Health Benefits
This hearty breakfast recipe is packed with protein, thanks to the sausage and eggs. Protein is an essential nutrient for keeping you energized throughout the day, especially during a busy morning. Likewise, the cheese and milk add calcium, while optional veggies provide a boost of vitamins and minerals. To illustrate, adding spinach offers a significant amount of iron and vitamin K.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or simply omit it and add more vegetables.
Why is my casserole runny?
If your casserole comes out runny, it’s likely because it didn’t bake long enough. Be sure to bake until the eggs are fully set.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic dish for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a regular morning when you want something filling. Altogether, it’s an easy casserole recipe that can be customized endlessly to fit your family’s needs. Try it out, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for the next holiday breakfast!
