There’s just something so comforting about a warm breakfast casserole, isn’t there? It’s like a hug on a plate! This Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole takes that comfort to a whole new level. Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. What I love most is how it brings everyone together around the breakfast table, whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a busy weekday morning. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! You can even prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds, and you’ll love how little effort it takes to make such a hearty, satisfying meal! So, let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole a standout dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: I prefer using a good-quality pork sausage for that classic flavor, but feel free to choose turkey or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
- 6 large eggs: These will provide the fluffy texture and richness to the casserole. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best mixing!
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk works wonders for creaminess, but you can swap it for any milk you have on hand, like almond or oat milk.
- 3 cups diced bread: Use whatever bread you love—stale bread works perfectly here! Sourdough or whole grain adds a nice twist.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: I’m all about sharp cheddar for that mouthwatering flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorite cheese or even a blend!
- 1 teaspoon salt: This helps to enhance all the wonderful flavors, so don’t skip it!
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick goes a long way, but adjust according to your taste preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely savory depth. If you have fresh garlic, feel free to use that instead—just mince it up!
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Just like the garlic powder, this will bring out that comforting savory flavor. You can also use finely chopped onions if you prefer!
Make sure you’ve got everything ready before you start, and let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare the Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—putting it all together! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast casserole in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the casserole evenly, allowing it to rise beautifully and develop that irresistible golden crust on top. Trust me, this step is essential!
Cook the Sausage
Next, grab a skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. You’ll want to break it up with a spatula as it cooks, letting it brown nicely for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning; we want all the flavor without it being greasy!
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is nice and frothy. This will give your casserole that fluffy texture! Whisking well here is key to ensuring everything is combined evenly.
Combine and Pour
Now, it’s time to add the cooked sausage, diced bread, and shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine everything together, making sure the bread is well-coated. Then, pour this delicious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Oh, the cheesy goodness is already happening!
Bake the Casserole
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set and beautifully golden brown. Give it a little shake; if it doesn’t jiggle too much in the center, it’s ready to come out!
Let it Cool
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps the casserole set up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it’ll be less likely to burn your mouth with that ooey-gooey cheese! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers behind this scrumptious Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re serving up:
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 200mg
This casserole is hearty and satisfying, making it a great start to your day! Just remember, moderation is key if you’re keeping an eye on those sodium levels. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This casserole comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time! Perfect for busy mornings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With layers of cheesy goodness and savory sausage, this dish is not just a breakfast; it’s a filling meal that will keep you satisfied until lunch.
- Family-Friendly Flavors: The combination of eggs, sausage, and cheese makes this casserole a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to start the day on a happy note!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s a lifesaver for those hectic weekdays!
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap out the sausage for bacon or ham. You can customize it to fit your family’s tastes!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a weekend family gathering, or a simple weekday breakfast, this casserole fits the bill every time.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some practical tips I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! If you’re out of breakfast sausage, try using diced ham or crumbled bacon for a different flavor. You can also swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese if you’re in the mood for something a bit spicier!
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in some chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even diced tomatoes. Just make sure to sauté them briefly before adding to the egg mixture so they don’t release too much moisture.
- Stale Bread Works Wonders: If you have any leftover bread that’s a bit stale, this is the perfect recipe to use it up! It absorbs the egg mixture beautifully, making the casserole even more delicious.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers (which might be a stretch!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to warm through.
- Make-Ahead Tips: For even more convenience, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge, covered. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge!
- Perfect Timing: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for that golden top and a firm center—this way, you avoid any soggy surprises!
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole and impressing everyone at your breakfast table!
Variations of Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole
One of the best things about this Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Different Meats: Switch out the breakfast sausage for diced ham, crispy bacon, or even crumbled turkey sausage for a lighter option. Each meat brings its own unique flavor to the dish!
- Cheese Galore: While I love using sharp cheddar, you can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste, pepper jack for some spice, or feta for a tangy twist. Mixing cheeses can also create a delightful flavor profile!
- Veggie-Loaded: Want to add some nutrition? Toss in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. These not only add color but also enhance the dish’s flavor. Just make sure to pre-cook the veggies to avoid excess moisture!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like chopped chives, parsley, or even dill can elevate the flavors. Just sprinkle them in before pouring the mixture into the baking dish for a fresh burst of taste!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. This will give your casserole a nice spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the cheese!
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free bread. This dish still delivers on flavor while catering to dietary needs!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these variations! It’s all about making this casserole your own and enjoying every delicious bite. Happy cooking!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge in the morning. It’s a total game-changer for busy mornings!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! If you want to make it ahead for later, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should be good in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver!
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
If you’re not a fan of sausage or need a different protein, feel free to swap it out for diced ham, cooked bacon, or even crumbled turkey sausage. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the dish!
Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely! While I love sharp cheddar, you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta cheese for a different flavor. Mixing different cheeses is a fun way to get creative with this casserole!
What if I don’t have bread on hand?
No worries! You can use any bread you have, whether it’s white, whole grain, or even leftover bagels. Just make sure it’s diced and ready to soak up all that delicious egg mixture!
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread. The flavors will still shine through, and everyone can enjoy it together!
For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this breakfast category on our site!
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Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole: 5 Heartwarming Steps
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and hearty breakfast casserole with cheesy goodness and savory sausage.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups diced bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cooked sausage, diced bread, and cheese to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and golden on top.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use any bread you have on hand.
- This can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Cheesy Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole