Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying start to your day, this sausage breakfast casserole is the perfect recipe. Combining savory sausage, eggs, cheese, and more, it’s a dish that caters to both convenience and flavor. Whether it’s for a special weekend brunch or just a treat-yourself moment, this casserole will become a regular in your breakfast rotation. It’s simple to prepare and doesn’t compromise on taste.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– One pound of breakfast sausage
– Six large eggs
– Two cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– One cup of milk
– Four cups of bread cubes, gently toasted
– Half a teaspoon of salt
– One-quarter teaspoon of black pepper

Prep Time

Preparing the sausage breakfast casserole is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by toasting your bread cubes lightly to give them that ideal texture. Crumble and cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, draining any excess grease. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Arrange the toasted bread cubes in a greased baking dish, layering them evenly. Spread the cooked sausage over the bread and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the egg mixture across the top, ensuring everything is covered evenly. Refrigerate the dish for a few hours or, ideally, overnight to let the flavors meld.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Place your prepared casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for approximately 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center, and the top is golden. The total time, including preparation, chilling, and baking, is around 4 to 8 hours, depending on how long you allow the casserole to sit before baking. This recipe yields approximately 6 to 8 servings, making it ideal for feeding a family or a group of friends.

Enjoy the comforting layers of savory goodness and watch your guests or family members savor every bite. This sausage breakfast casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage

Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Base

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay the slices of bread on the bottom of the dish, ensuring they cover the base. Tear or cut pieces to fit if necessary.

Step 4: Add the Sausage Layer

Spread the cooked and crumbled sausage evenly over the bread layer in the baking dish.

Step 5: Mix Ingredients for the Egg Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Whisk until fully blended.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread layers in the baking dish.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is lightly golden brown.

Step 9: Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

Note 1: Bread Type

You can use any type of bread for this recipe, such as whole-grain, sourdough, or white bread.

Note 2: Sausage Options

Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy, mild, or turkey sausage, depending on your preference.

Note 3: Make-Ahead Option

Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.

Note 4: Additions

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

Note 5: Serving Ideas

Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
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Cook Techniques

Assembling the Casserole

Layer ingredients in a precise order to achieve the perfect texture. Start with the cooked sausage as the base, followed by the shredded cheese and then carefully pour the egg mixture on top to evenly distribute the flavors.

Pre-Cooking the Sausage

Brown the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the casserole. This ensures fully cooked, flavorful meat while eliminating excess grease.

Combining the Egg Mixture

Whisk together the eggs, milk, and seasonings thoroughly to create a smooth and uniform custard. This step is crucial for a cohesive dish with even flavor blending.

Even Cheese Distribution

Spread the shredded cheese evenly across the casserole to ensure every bite includes a cheesy element, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Resting Time Before Baking

Allow the assembled casserole to sit for a few minutes to let the bread (if used) absorb some of the egg mixture, resulting in a harmonious texture.

Cooking Temperature

Bake the casserole at the recommended temperature for an even cook, ensuring the eggs set properly without overcooking or drying out.

FAQ

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake, making it an excellent option for busy mornings.

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Mild or spicy breakfast sausage works well, but you can choose any sausage variety depending on your flavor preferences.

Can I substitute the cheese in the recipe?

Yes, you can use any melty cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for your preferred taste.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Once it has cooled, cut it into portions, wrap them tightly, and store in the freezer for up to two months.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use a microwave for quicker reheating.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely. Feel free to include sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I use instead of milk in the egg mixture?

If you are dairy-free or out of milk, you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or a similar non-dairy alternative.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set, and the center is no longer jiggly. You can also check by inserting a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Conclusion

The Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for starting your day on a hearty note. Its combination of flavorful sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread creates a satisfying meal that can easily be prepared ahead of time. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a simple breakfast solution, this casserole checks all the boxes for taste, texture, and convenience.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Breakfast Casserole

Replace sausage with a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for a healthy vegetarian twist on the classic casserole.

Hash Brown Breakfast Bake

Swap the bread base with crispy hash browns to create a crispy, golden dish with a potato-filled twist.

Mexican-Inspired Breakfast Casserole

Incorporate ingredients like chorizo sausage, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and shredded cheese for a spicy, flavorful dish.

Cheesy Bacon Breakfast Casserole

Substitute sausage with crispy bacon and load the casserole with your favorite cheeses for a rich, indulgent breakfast treat.

Mini Breakfast Casserole Muffins

Portion the casserole mixture into muffin tins to create individual serving-sized breakfast bites, perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd.

Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Use diced ham and a combination of cheddar and Swiss cheeses for a classic breakfast pairing that never disappoints.

Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole

Use gluten-free bread or bread alternatives to make this dish accessible for those with gluten sensitivities while retaining great flavor.

Italian-Style Breakfast Casserole

Add Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast option.