Easy & Delicious Sausage Breakfast Casserole: Your Go-To Make-Ahead Recipe
Start your day with a delightful and effortless meal that promises to satisfy everyone around the table. This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a true kitchen hero, expertly layered with tender bread pieces, savory sizzling sausage, a hint of yellow mustard, rich Mexican cheese, and fluffy beaten eggs, all baked to golden perfection in a single dish. It’s designed to feed your family quickly and deliciously, whether you serve it hot right from the oven or prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning bake. This incredibly easy breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for any occasion, from busy weekdays to festive holiday gatherings, making it an indispensable addition to your culinary repertoire.
Are you looking for effortless breakfast ideas, especially for those special occasions like Christmas morning? Beyond this fantastic sausage and egg casserole, you might also enjoy a breakfast casserole with hashbrowns, which can also be prepared overnight. For a classic touch, consider these crispy breakfast potatoes, or the comforting duo of classic biscuits and gravy! Our extensive collection of breakfast casserole recipes is packed with hits, including a unique Breakfast Casserole with cottage cheese and a truly decadent Cheesy Breakfast Casserole. There’s truly something for every palate!
What Makes This Sausage Breakfast Casserole So Special?
This savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a remarkably simple yet incredibly satisfying breakfast dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a culinary delight. At its heart, it’s crafted from common pantry staples like soft bread, flavorful breakfast sausage, a generous amount of cheese, and fluffy eggs. The eggs serve as the perfect binder, holding all the delicious components together, while the bread cubes work to soak up the rich, savory liquids released during baking, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. Whisking the eggs thoroughly before adding them is key; it introduces air, making the eggs light and fluffy in the final casserole. As the casserole bakes, the tantalizing aromas of the sausage and the creamy cheese, enhanced by a touch of yellow mustard, will fill your home, creating an inviting atmosphere that is simply irresistible. In fact, after prepping this dish the night before, its incredible scent alone has often piqued the curiosity of guests, leaving them eagerly anticipating their morning meal!
This dish embodies everything a perfect breakfast casserole with sausage should be – convenient, customizable, and utterly delicious. Its versatility shines through in several preparation methods: you can assemble it the night before and let it slowly cook in a crock pot for a warm wake-up call, prepare it as a make-ahead breakfast and refrigerate it overnight for morning baking, or simply assemble and bake it immediately in the oven. For those who enjoy a touch of sweetness with their savory breakfast, a drizzle of maple syrup transforms this into a sweet breakfast casserole reminiscent of a McDonald’s McGriddle, but without the pancakes! Each slice of this sausage and egg casserole bakes up incredibly tender and fluffy, with the bread seamlessly integrating into the rich egg and sausage mixture, ensuring you won’t even taste distinct bread pieces. Serving it straight from one pan makes it an incredibly easy option for busy mornings at our farm. Another cherished country breakfast at our house is the hearty Amish breakfast casserole, especially delicious when made with bacon!
Choosing the Best Bread for Your Breakfast Casserole
The type of bread you use can significantly impact the texture and overall success of your breakfast casserole. For this recipe, soft sandwich bread is often the preferred choice. Its soft crumb allows it to absorb the egg mixture beautifully and bake up into a light, fluffy texture that almost melts in your mouth. However, don’t limit yourself! Other excellent choices include soft hamburger buns, a crusty French bread baguette (just make sure it’s soft enough to absorb well), or fluffy Italian bread. The goal is to have bread that can soak up the custard without becoming soggy or too dense.
If you plan on soaking the casserole overnight, you can even use bread croutons or day-old stale bread, which tends to absorb liquids more effectively without falling apart. For same-day baking, opt for a fresh loaf and simply tear or cut it into bite-sized pieces. This recipe also provides a fantastic opportunity to use up leftover toast or slightly stale bread, making it a frugal and resourceful meal. Consider prepping this after dinner and setting it in the fridge overnight – it’s a great way to repurpose ingredients and prepare for an easy morning.
Essential Ingredients for This Flavorful Casserole
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole boasts a short list of simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. It’s an ideal recipe for using up staples and even creatively repurposing items like stale bread or leftover sandwich buns!
- Sausage: The star of this savory breakfast bake! You’ll want to use breakfast sausage, pork sausage, or country sausage. These varieties are typically seasoned with black pepper and sage, which are crucial for that classic, delicious breakfast flavor. Popular brands like Jimmy Dean or store brands (such as Aldi’s) work wonderfully. For a lighter, healthier option, a turkey breakfast sausage roll can be a great substitute without sacrificing much flavor.
- Bread: Plan on using 4-5 slices of your favorite soft sandwich bread. Cut the bread into 1/2-inch cubes or simply tear them into bite-sized pieces. Having distinct chunks is important as it allows the egg mixture to seep through and evenly coat all the bread, ensuring a perfectly moist casserole.
- Cheese: Shredded cheese is essential for flavor and creaminess. Sharp cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, or a Mexican blend (Fiesta blend) are all excellent choices for this breakfast casserole with bread. I recommend adding a bit of additional cheddar cheese sauce to the fried sausage for an extra layer of creaminess and intense flavor that truly elevates the dish.
- Eggs: Six large eggs cracked into a bowl and thoroughly beaten with a whisk will create a light and fluffy texture, which is key to a truly enjoyable breakfast sausage casserole. Well-whisked eggs help bind the ingredients and contribute to the overall rise and texture.
- Milk: For the richest and most decadent casserole, whole milk is your best bet. Its higher fat content contributes to a creamier, more luxurious custard base, ensuring the casserole is moist and flavorful.
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper are your foundational seasonings, vital for enhancing the flavor of any breakfast dish. A pinch of dried sage is particularly recommended to complement the sausage, bringing out its savory notes and adding depth to the entire casserole.
- Yellow Mustard: Don’t skip this secret ingredient! When combined with the breakfast sausage, this prepared mustard creates an unbelievably appetizing aroma that fills your kitchen. The slight tanginess also beautifully cuts through the richness of the sausage and cheese, adding a complex layer of flavor that will leave everyone wondering what your secret is.
Delicious Variations to Customize Your Casserole
One of the best things about breakfast casseroles is how easily they can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. Make this the best breakfast casserole by experimenting with these delicious variations to please your crowd:
- Different Meats: While sausage is fantastic, feel free to use cooked ham, crispy bacon, or a combination of all three! Diced ham adds a salty chew, while crumbled bacon brings a smoky crispness. These meats can be used interchangeably or together for a truly loaded casserole.
- Add Potatoes: For a heartier meal, incorporate about 15 oz (1 3/4 cups) of frozen tater tots or shredded hash browns into the mix. Ensure they are slightly thawed or par-cooked if you prefer them crispier.
- Creamier Base with Heavy Cream: For an even richer, more luxurious texture, substitute 1 cup of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream. This will make your egg custard incredibly decadent and smooth.
- Soupy Goodness: A can of Cream of Mushroom Soup or leftover Country gravy can be stirred into the egg mixture to create an extra creamy egg breakfast casserole. Use about 1 1/4 cups or a 10 oz can for enhanced richness and a unique flavor profile.
- Sneak in Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add freshness by mixing in 1/2 cup of your favorite cooked vegetables. Canned mushrooms (drained), finely diced bell peppers (any color), finely chopped onion, steamed broccoli florets, or fresh spinach are all excellent choices.
- Cheese, Please!: Elevate the cheesiness by using 1 cup of Velveeta cheese shreds or your own homemade cheese sauce for an ultra-creamy casserole. Beyond Mexican blend, other delicious shredded cheese options include Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack (for a spicy kick!), or Mozzarella.
Step-by-Step: How To Make This Easy Breakfast Casserole
This is truly one of the easiest breakfast casseroles you’ll ever make, featuring minimal prep time and maximum flavor! All the ingredients are layered into one baking pan, allowing your oven to do most of the work. You can cook this breakfast egg casserole the day you prepare it, or conveniently store it in the fridge hours (or even overnight) ahead of time for later baking. The baking process is delightfully simple!
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium-low heat until it is thoroughly browned and crumbled. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for doneness. Use a meat chopper or a metal spatula to easily break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the cheddar cheese sauce (if using) and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the Bread Base: While the sausage cooks, cut your bread slices into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. Spread these bread cubes evenly across the bottom of a 10×6 baking dish. This forms the foundational layer of your casserole.
- Layer the Flavor: Evenly spread the cooked sausage mixture over the bread cubes. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese over the sausage layer. This creates a rich, savory foundation.
- Whisk the Egg Custard: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs. Add the yellow mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients vigorously until they are well combined and slightly frothy. Pour in the whole milk and continue to whisk until the mixture is homogenous and smooth. This creates your fluffy egg custard base.
- Combine and Soak: Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over the sausage and cheese layers in the baking dish. Ensure the liquid is distributed as evenly as possible, allowing the bread to soak it all up.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Place it into a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 1 hour. After an hour, remove the foil and continue to bake uncovered for an additional 10-20 minutes, or until the sausage egg breakfast casserole has risen, appears golden brown on top, and the center is set and no longer jiggly.
How Long to Cook Breakfast Casserole? Your Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfectly done when the center looks fluffy and set, and there’s no visible wetness. A good visual cue is to check the edges – if they are golden brown and bubbling, it’s likely finished. If the center feels too jiggly or watery, it requires more baking time. Do you cover breakfast casserole when baking? Yes, it’s highly recommended to cover it for the first hour of baking. This traps moisture and ensures the casserole cooks through evenly without drying out. Then, bake uncovered for the final 15-20 minutes to allow the eggs to fully set and the top to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly: Your Ultimate Breakfast Solution
One of the most remarkable features of this easy breakfast casserole recipe is its incredible make-ahead capability and long storage time, making your mornings incredibly convenient! You don’t necessarily have to let this breakfast casserole sit overnight in the fridge before baking; it can be baked immediately or even go straight into the freezer for future use. For overnight preparation, simply assemble the casserole dish as directed, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and place it in the fridge. In the morning, you can pop it directly into a cold oven, then preheat the oven to 400°F. This allows the casserole to gradually warm up with the oven, giving it a gentle jump start in cooking without shocking the ingredients.
How To Freeze Breakfast Casserole for Later:
Freezing this casserole is straightforward, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it. To freeze, double-wrap the top of the assembled, unbaked casserole dish with aluminum foil. For extra protection against freezer burn and to secure the foil, wrap the entire dish with a large plastic bag or several layers of plastic wrap. Place it into the freezer, where it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the frozen casserole to the refrigerator the night before to thaw completely. Once thawed, bake as directed in the recipe. There’s no need to bake this casserole first before freezing, which saves you an extra step! For reheating leftovers, simply microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until thoroughly hot.
What To Serve With a Delicious Breakfast Casserole
Whether you’re preparing this easy breakfast casserole for a special Christmas morning or just a regular weekend, you might wonder what complements such a hearty dish. Breakfast casseroles are often substantial enough to stand alone, but here are some delightful ways to serve and enjoy your morning bake, along with other creative ideas:
- Fresh & Fruity: Serve a vibrant side of fresh fruit, such as berries, melon, or sliced oranges, to add a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole. Or pair it with warm, flaky homemade Crescents (Pillsbury Copycat) for a bakery-fresh feel.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: For a delightful sweet and savory experience, drizzle generously with warm maple syrup, much like you would with French toast. This transforms the casserole into a breakfast-dessert hybrid!
- Classic Pairings: Complement the casserole with sweet treats like soft Cinnamon Rolls or moist Muffins for a complete brunch spread.
- Breakfast Sandwich Style: Turn a slice of casserole into a hearty breakfast sandwich by serving it sandwiched between warm, fluffy Biscuits or toasted English muffins, much like a savory patty.
- Tex-Mex Twist: For a unique dinner or brunch option, re-fry leftover casserole pieces in a skillet with diced bell peppers and onions to create a “Texas hash.” Serve this flavorful hash with a dollop of fresh salsa for a zesty kick.
More Delicious Casserole Recipes to Explore:
If you love the ease and versatility of casseroles, be sure to check out these other fantastic recipes from our collection:
- Amish Breakfast Casserole – A true comfort food classic and one of the best breakfast casseroles!
- Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole – A rich and savory dinner option.
- Breakfast Casserole with Cheese Sauce – For the ultimate cheese lovers!
- Chicken Pot Pie Casserole with Biscuits – A quick and easy take on a classic.
- Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cottage Cheese – A lighter, protein-packed breakfast option.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) About Breakfast Casseroles
How Long Is Breakfast Casserole Good For?
How Long Can a Breakfast Casserole be Refrigerated before Baking? This breakfast casserole with sausage is best stored unbaked in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you don’t plan to use it within this timeframe, it’s best to freeze it for longer preservation, up to 3 months. Once baked, any leftovers can be safely kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making it excellent for meal prepping throughout the week.
How Can I Make This a Crockpot Breakfast Casserole?
Transforming this into an overnight breakfast casserole for your slow cooker is incredibly easy and yields a delicious result. You can prep it the night before, set it on low heat, and wake up to the wonderful aromas of breakfast filling your kitchen! For this recipe, I typically don’t drain off the grease when cooking the sausage; it helps keep the casserole moist and prevents it from drying out in the slow cooker. However, if you do drain the fat, remember to spray or grease your slow cooker thoroughly (or use a slow cooker liner) to prevent sticking. Here’s how to adapt it for your slow cooker:
- Layer the Bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Cook and Add Sausage: Brown the sausage in a pan as directed, then transfer it directly into the slow cooker, spreading it over the bread.
- Layer Remaining Ingredients: Distribute the shredded cheese and pour the whisked egg mixture over the sausage and bread layers.
- Cook Slowly: Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours for an overnight bake (this prevents overcooking the eggs), or on high for 4-5 hours if you’re baking it closer to mealtime.
- Serve: Once cooked through and golden on the edges, slice and serve your delicious slow cooker breakfast casserole. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salsa or a drizzle of maple syrup!
BEST Casserole Tips for Success:
- Avoid Freezing Egg Substitutes: If you’re using an egg substitute, avoid freezing the casserole, as these products tend to not freeze well and can result in a rubbery texture upon reheating.
- Prevent Freezer Burn: When freezing casseroles, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burns. For added security, I like to double-wrap each casserole dish with two grocery bags and tie them tightly before placing them in the freezer.
- Use Disposable Pans: For potlucks, gifts, or when you simply don’t want to worry about getting your dish back, use disposable foil pans. They make transportation and cleanup a breeze.
- Achieve Fluffy Texture: To ensure a wonderfully fluffy casserole, preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake mostly covered with foil, then uncover for the last portion of the baking time. This method ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden top.
- Holiday Hosting Hero: This recipe is a fantastic choice if you’re searching for impressive yet easy holiday casseroles for breakfast! Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it perfect for hosting Easter, Christmas, or Thanksgiving gatherings.
- Double Up for Convenience: Consider doubling the ingredients to make two breakfast casseroles – one to enjoy immediately with your family, and another to freeze for a busy morning down the road.
- Add Extra Creaminess: For an even richer and creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup into the egg mixture.
- Sweet Tooth Option: Don’t hesitate to enjoy this savory casserole with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet breakfast casserole experience! Many find it tastes surprisingly like a McGriddle when served this way.
- Make it a Complete Dinner: For a hearty dinner meal, mix in extra ingredients like diced bell peppers, onions, or other favorite veggies. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- Flexible Prep: Remember, this sausage breakfast casserole recipe offers ultimate flexibility – it can be baked right away for immediate enjoyment or assembled and stored in the fridge overnight for a convenient morning meal.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
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Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Equipment
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1 10-inch skillet or medium saucepan (to fry the sausage)
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1 10×6 baking dish
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1 meat chopper (or metal spatula to break up the sausage)
Ingredients
Ingredients:
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1 lb breakfast sausage (pork sausage)
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1/2 cup cheddar cheese sauce
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3 cups cubed bread (5 slices of bread cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
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1 cup Mexican cheese (shredded Fiesta blend)
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6 eggs
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1 tsp yellow mustard
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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2 cups whole milk
Instructions
Directions:
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Fry the sausage until browned. Stir in the cheddar cheese sauce and set aside. -
Meanwhile, spread the bread cubes in a 10×6 baking dish. Top with the sausage and shredded Mexican cheese. -
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour in the milk and whisk well. -
Pour the egg mixture over the assembled casserole. Cover and bake or store overnight in the fridge. -
Bake at 400°F for 1 hour. Then uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes until the casserole fluffs up and is no longer wet in the center.
Nutrition per serving