If you are searching for a comforting and crowd-pleasing breakfast dish, this Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, soft bread cubes, and melty Cheddar cheese, it’s the perfect make-ahead meal for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches. Every bite is packed with flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let me walk you through how to create this delicious casserole that blends simple ingredients into a warm, satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe shines because of its straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays an important role in creating a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Provides rich, savory flavor and a hearty protein base.
- 6 eggs: The binding agent that gives the casserole its fluffy, custardy texture.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to keep the casserole soft.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice for depth.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: A secret little kick that brightens the savory profile.
- 6 slices white bread, cut into cubes: Acts as a soft, absorbent base soaking up all the egg and sausage goodness.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese: Brings a gooey, melty finish with just the right amount of sharpness.
How to Make Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly, resulting in that golden bubbly top we all love.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Once finished, drain the excess fat for a less greasy casserole, then set the sausage aside to cool slightly. This step is essential for developing the deep, savory flavor that complements the eggs beautifully.
Step 3: Whisk Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and mustard powder. This mixture will infuse the casserole with richness and a gentle kick from the mustard powder, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier, ensuring your casserole slices come out cleanly.
Step 5: Layer the Bread
Place the cubed white bread evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. These bread cubes soak up the egg mixture, giving the casserole a wonderfully soft and tender base.
Step 6: Add the Sausage
Scatter the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. This distributes the meat flavor throughout the dish rather than having it clumped in one spot, creating harmony in every bite.
Step 7: Pour the Egg Mixture
Carefully pour your whisked egg mixture over the sausage and bread, ensuring all areas get a good coating. This step is crucial for binding the layers together perfectly.
Step 8: Sprinkle the Cheese
Top off the casserole with a generous cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. The cheese melts into gooey pockets on top, adding a beautiful golden crust full of rich, tangy flavor.
Step 9: Refrigerate to Set
Cover your dish with aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This resting period allows the bread to soak up all the egg mixture fully, making the casserole wonderfully cohesive and flavorful.
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Once your oven is preheated, take the casserole out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature. Then bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This brief wait helps it firm up enough for neat serving while keeping it warm and comforting.
How to Serve Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions or parsley add a vibrant pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich casserole. A light sprinkle of paprika or a dollop of sour cream can also elevate the presentation and add an extra layer of taste.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp fruit salad or lightly dressed greens to add brightness and balance to your plate. You might also serve it alongside a warm biscuit or toast for a complete, satisfying breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your brunch guests? Bake individual portions in ramekins for a personalized touch or layer in a clear casserole dish so everyone can admire the beautiful layers of bread, sausage, and cheese before digging in. It’s a feast for both eyes and appetite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps nicely and is perfect for quick breakfasts or lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe either before or after baking. For best results, wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave smaller servings, but reheating slowly in the oven helps retain the casserole’s texture and keeps the cheese perfectly melted.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional for its softness and neutral flavor, whole wheat or sourdough can add a lovely nutty taste and heartier texture. Just make sure to cut it into similar-sized cubes for even soaking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the breakfast sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to maintain the savory element without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely. In fact, letting the casserole sit overnight in the fridge before baking enhances the flavors and helps the bread absorb the egg mixture more thoroughly.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the egg mixture is set and firm to the touch in the center, and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a slight golden hue.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Feel free to sneak in diced onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture so your casserole doesn’t get soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to start the day with hearty flavor and comforting textures. Its effortless preparation and make-ahead convenience make it perfect for both busy mornings and relaxed weekend gatherings. I encourage you to give it a try and share this warm, satisfying dish with friends and family. You won’t regret it!
