If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and oh-so-flavorful dish to kick off your day, this Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe will become your new go-to. It masterfully combines fluffy eggs, spicy breakfast sausage, and rich cheddar cheese atop a buttery crescent roll crust, resulting in a breakfast that feels both indulgent and completely satisfying. Whether brunching with family or prepping ahead for busy mornings, this casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser that delivers layers of texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dish. Each component plays its part—from the seasoned sausage adding a bold punch, to the creamy eggs that bring softness, and the golden crescent roll crust that adds a delicious buttery crunch.
- 6 large eggs: The binding element that sets the casserole with a tender and fluffy texture.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Adds savory depth and a delectable meaty flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the eggs rich and creamy, making every bite moist.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to create a gooey cheesy layer with a sharp bite.
- 1 refrigerated crescent roll dough sheet: Forms a buttery, flaky base for the casserole.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle kick that enhances all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Balances the savory ingredients and brightens the taste.
- ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic: Infuses the dish with classic aromatic warmth.
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion: Adds a mild sweetness and depth without overwhelming the palate.
How to Make Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Sausage
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your casserole assembly is complete. While it heats, brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned and there’s no pink left. Then, drain any excess oil to keep the casserole from being greasy and to maintain a balanced flavor throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Unroll the crescent roll dough sheet and gently press it into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. This step creates a flaky crust that will hold all the filling together while providing a delightful buttery crunch with every bite.
Step 3: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Evenly spread the browned sausage over the crescent roll base, making sure to cover every corner for consistent flavor. Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage, allowing it to melt beautifully and bring that rich, gooey cheesiness that you dream of in a breakfast casserole.
Step 4: Whisk Egg Mixture and Add Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, black pepper, sea salt, dried minced garlic, and dried minced onion until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. These seasonings elevate the eggs and tie the entire dish together with bursts of flavor in every forkful.
Step 5: Pour Egg Mixture and Bake
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered sausage and cheese in your casserole dish, making sure it seeps evenly throughout. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown, giving it an inviting appearance and irresistible aroma.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly for about 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up a bit for easier slicing and ensures the flavors meld perfectly, delivering the best experience with each serving of this Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can add a fresh contrast to this rich casserole. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to brighten the flavors and add a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also bring an exciting kick that plays well with the cheesy, meaty layers.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with fresh fruit like melon slices or berries for a sweet balance. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also a fantastic complement, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing crunch. Toasted English muffins or buttery biscuits on the side can round out the meal, making it feel even more indulgent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch at brunch gatherings. Or sprinkle extra cheese and herbs on top before broiling for the last couple of minutes to add a golden crispy layer. You can also top portions with avocado slices or sautéed mushrooms for an elevated presentation that impresses every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat portions to bring back the melty cheese and savory sausage goodness.
Freezing
If you want to make this casserole ahead of time for busy mornings, it freezes quite well. Wrap the baked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes to restore the crispy top and melty cheese. Either way, you’ll get that fresh-from-the-oven taste every time you reheat.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic for its sharpness and meltability, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for some extra heat. Just choose a cheese that melts well to maintain that gooey texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the breakfast sausage for a plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Just sauté the veggies until tender before layering for a delicious vegetarian take on this casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely! Assemble everything except baking it, cover the dish, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake as directed. This makes for a quick and effortless morning meal without sacrificing flavor.
What should I do if the casserole isn’t fully set after baking?
If you notice the eggs are still jiggly in the center, continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking. Every oven varies, so this extra time ensures the perfect, fully cooked texture.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish or two separate dishes. Just keep the baking time roughly the same, but start checking for doneness around 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like waking up to the savory, cheesy aroma of this Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe filling your kitchen. It’s a warm hug on a plate that’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and see how it transforms your breakfast routine into a celebration of flavors and comfort.
Print
Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is a hearty and satisfying morning dish perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Featuring a flaky crescent roll crust layered with flavorful browned sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a rich egg mixture seasoned with garlic and onion, this casserole bakes up golden and fluffy. It’s easy to prepare and serves 8, combining comforting breakfast staples into one delicious bake.
Ingredients
Sausage Layer
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Casserole Base
- 1 refrigerated crescent roll dough sheet
Cheese Layer
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage until fully cooked, ensuring no pink remains; then drain the excess oil to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Prepare Crust: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, forming the base layer for the casserole.
- Layer Sausage and Cheese: Spread the browned sausage evenly over the crescent dough, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, black pepper, sea salt, dried minced garlic, and dried minced onion until well combined and smooth.
- Combine Layers: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese layers in the casserole dish, making sure it covers all ingredients.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is set, firm to the touch, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into portions. Serve warm for a delicious breakfast treat.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking cold.
- Use reduced-fat cheese and milk for a lower-fat version.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
