If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This dish combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melty cheddar cheese, and soft bread into a harmonious bake that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or special occasions, this casserole offers a delicious way to start your day with protein-packed good vibes and hearty, cheesy comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every bite of this casserole is a symphony of familiar, simple ingredients that work together to build layers of flavor and texture. Each element brings something special to the table—whether it’s the rich, savory sausage or the creamy, cheesy blend that ties it all together.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Provides a flavorful, meaty base that’s well-seasoned and juicy.
- 8 large eggs: Create the rich, custardy foundation that holds the casserole together.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess to the eggs for a soft and tender bake.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers sharpness and gooey melted texture throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients’ natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, warming spice to brighten the dish.
- 6 slices white sandwich bread, cubed: Absorbs the egg mixture, creating a fluffy, bread pudding-like texture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful garnish that adds a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by cooking your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Crumble it as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked through. Once it’s done, drain off any excess grease to ensure the casserole isn’t overly oily, then set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Base
Cube your white sandwich bread into bite-sized pieces. Spread these cubes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This bread layer is essential because it soaks up the egg and milk mixture, creating a soft yet structured base for the casserole that balances the meat and cheese perfectly.
Step 3: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Evenly scatter the browned sausage over the bread cubes. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. The cheese not only brings flavor but also helps bind the casserole together while baking, creating blissfully gooey pockets of melted happiness.
Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is smoothly combined. This simple egg custard is what will set into a fluffy, tender quilt that holds all the ingredients together in one satisfying bake.
Step 5: Pour and Press
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in your baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the bread, sausage, and cheese layers down so they absorb the custard fully. This step ensures every bite has the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Step 6: Chill to Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least two hours or overnight if you’re prepping ahead of time. This chilling period lets the bread soak up the egg custard deeply, resulting in an even, set casserole after baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake it for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center is firmly set. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly gathering at the table.
Step 8: Let Cool and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes. This rest time helps it firm up for easier slicing. Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note if you like.
How to Serve Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds an inviting splash of color and a bit of brightness that balances all the rich, hearty flavors. For an extra touch, a spoonful of sour cream or avocado slices complement the dish wonderfully and add delightful creaminess.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides to keep the meal balanced. Think mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, sliced fresh fruit for a juicy burst, or even roasted veggies like asparagus or bell peppers for an earthy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual casserole squares in small ramekins with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who like a kick. Or turn this dish into a brunch buffet centerpiece by offering various toppings—sour cream, guacamole, scallions, or sautéed mushrooms—so guests can customize their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It remains flavorful and moist, making it perfect for quick reheats during the busy workweek.
Freezing
If you want to save some portions for much later, freeze the casserole in individual airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Covering with foil in the oven helps prevent the edges from drying out, preserving the casserole’s creamy, rich texture and cheesy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use spicy chorizo, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your taste preferences. Each variation will bring a unique flavor twist to your Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I prep the casserole entirely the night before?
Definitely. In fact, letting it refrigerate overnight enhances the flavors and gives the bread plenty of time to soak in the egg mixture fully, resulting in a more cohesive, flavorful dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the white sandwich bread for a gluten-free bread of your choice. Make sure the bread is sturdy enough to absorb the custard without turning mushy.
What can I do if I don’t have cheddar cheese?
Other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack work great too. They’ll deliver a different but equally delicious flavor profile to your Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe has all the hallmarks of a beloved classic: hands-down easy preparation, hearty flavor, and warm, comforting satisfaction that feels like morning magic on a plate. If you’ve been craving a go-to breakfast that feeds a crowd and keeps everyone smiling, give this recipe a try—you’re going to want it in your regular rotation.
Print
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 65 minutes (including refrigeration time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious sausage and egg breakfast casserole combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and cubed bread to create a hearty and comforting dish perfect for brunch or a weekend breakfast gathering. The casserole is assembled ahead of time, refrigerated to let flavors meld, and then baked until golden and set.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Dairy & Eggs
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Breads & Seasonings
- 6 slices white sandwich bread, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain off excess grease and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the bread base: Cut the white sandwich bread into cubes and evenly layer them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base of the casserole.
- Layer sausage and cheese: Spread the cooked sausage over the cubed bread, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Mix the egg custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Gently press down on the layers so the bread absorbs the liquid custard.
- Chill overnight: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate the casserole for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the egg mixture fully.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it to save time on the day of serving.
- Use whole milk for a richer custard; low-fat milk can be substituted for a lighter version.
- Feel free to substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the white bread with gluten-free bread.
