Easy Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a savory, crowd-pleasing dish made with breakfast sausage, bread, eggs, and cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbly. This comforting casserole is a perfect choice for weekends, holidays, or any time you’re craving a filling and tasty breakfast.
You can also assemble it the night before, refrigerate it, and simply bake in the morning, which makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this breakfast casserole is a satisfying and hearty way to start the day.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (optional)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half for a richer casserole)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 6 slices of bread, cubed (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. If using, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and ground mustard until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Layer the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top the bread with the cooked sausage mixture, distributing it evenly. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese over the sausage and bread.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese. Press down gently to ensure the bread soaks up the egg mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top.
5. Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Bread Choice: Day-old bread works best for this casserole, as it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy. You can use white bread, whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche for extra richness.
- Sausage Options: Use your favorite breakfast sausage—mild, spicy, or even turkey sausage for a lighter version. You can also use Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning for an easy and fuss-free breakfast.
Variations
- Vegetable Breakfast Casserole: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Breakfast Casserole: Use spicy breakfast sausage and add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Biscuit Breakfast Casserole: Replace the bread cubes with biscuit dough for a different texture. Simply cut refrigerated biscuit dough into quarters and use it as a base.
- Mexican-Inspired Breakfast Casserole: Use chorizo sausage, add diced green chilies, and sprinkle some pepper jack cheese on top. Serve with salsa and sour cream for a Tex-Mex twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake. In the morning, simply place it in the oven and bake as directed.
Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble the casserole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover breakfast casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What type of bread should I use?
Day-old bread is best for this recipe, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. You can use any bread you like—white, whole wheat, sourdough, or even French bread.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is commonly used, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Easy Breakfast Sausage Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. With savory sausage, fluffy eggs, cheesy goodness, and hearty bread, it’s a comforting dish that’s great for any occasion—from holidays to weekend mornings.
This simple casserole can be customized to suit your tastes, making it a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire. Try it out for your next brunch or family breakfast, and watch it become a new favorite!
Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!