If you are on the lookout for a warm, comforting breakfast that brings everyone running to the table, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect harmony of savory breakfast sausage, tender bread soaked in rich egg custard, and melty cheddar cheese baked to golden perfection. Each bite feels like a cozy hug first thing in the morning, making it ideal for family weekends, brunch gatherings, or simply elevating your everyday breakfast routine with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. From the savory sausage to the creamy egg mixture and sharp cheddar cheese, every component plays a crucial role in building this irresistible casserole.
- Breakfast sausage (1 pound): Use a flavorful, good quality sausage for the best taste and a hearty protein boost.
- Large eggs (6): These bind the casserole together and create the luscious custard base.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds richness and creaminess to soften the bread perfectly.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Sharp and gooey, it melds beautifully into the layers, providing melty, cheesy goodness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors in the casserole without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives a gentle hint of spice for balance.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle savory note that complements the sausage wonderfully.
- Day-old bread, cubed (4 cups): Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture perfectly, creating a tender yet slightly crisp texture after baking.
- Chopped chives (1 tablespoon, optional): For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the sausage
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled into bite-sized pieces. This step releases all those delicious savory flavors and ensures your casserole will have that perfect sausage bite in every forkful. Drain off any excess grease so the casserole doesn’t become oily.
Step 2: Whisk together the egg custard
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is perfectly combined. This mixture is the foundation of the casserole’s custardy texture that soaks into the bread cubes and holds everything together.
Step 3: Prepare the baking dish and layer ingredients
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom. This layer acts like a sponge for the egg mixture. Next, evenly scatter the browned sausage over the bread, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for cheesy pockets throughout the casserole.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture and soak
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, pressing gently down to ensure every cube of bread is well soaked. This soaking step is key to achieving the casserole’s tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture after baking.
Step 5: Bake it to cheesy perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, then bake for 30 minutes. Removing the foil afterward allows the top to get beautifully golden and slightly crispy as you continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the center is fully set.
Step 6: Add final touches and serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the casserole with fresh chopped chives for that lovely hint of green and mild onion flavor, then serve it warm. This beautiful golden bake is ready to be the star of your breakfast table.
How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley add a fresh contrast to the rich casserole. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also brighten up each bite and bring a little extra flair.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside fresh fruit salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the casserole. A crisp green salad or light yogurt parfait complements this hearty dish beautifully and keeps the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your casserole into individual portions by baking it in muffin tins for grab-and-go breakfasts, or layer in a clear dish with vibrant veggies for a colorful brunch centerpiece. You can also top with avocado slices or a sprinkle of paprika to make it visually inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
Freezing
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking, cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil and placing in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for meal prepping or future busy days.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. For larger portions, cover loosely with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated evenly, about 15 to 20 minutes, to maintain that lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the breakfast sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Is day-old bread necessary?
Using day-old or stale bread helps it absorb the egg mixture better without turning soggy. If you only have fresh bread, try lightly toasting it beforehand for similar results.
Can I use low-fat milk or another type of cheese?
Yes, you can swap whole milk for lower-fat options, but the casserole will be less rich and creamy. Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different cheesy flavor.
How far in advance can I prepare this dish?
You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, keeping it covered and refrigerated before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from cold.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
No worries! You can omit it or substitute with a small amount of minced fresh garlic sautéed with the sausage for a similar savory boost.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm welcome on a plate. Comforting, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into making this beautiful breakfast classic—your mornings will thank you!
Print
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and cubed day-old bread to create a delicious, comforting dish perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Baked to golden perfection, it’s easy to prepare ahead and sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Layer the Bread: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread layer, then distribute the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, pressing gently down to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid fully.
- Preheat Oven and Bake Covered: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes to allow the casserole to set.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped chives on top for a fresh finish if desired. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps the casserole soak up the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your preferred cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Cooked sausage can be substituted with cooked bacon or ham if preferred.
- Make this casserole a day ahead by assembling it the night before and refrigerating. Bake as directed without foil initially, increasing baking time by about 10 minutes.
- For a lower-fat version, use turkey sausage and reduced-fat milk and cheese.
