Start your day with a warm, cheesy, and filling breakfast casserole that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and crispy bread all baked into a golden, delicious dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (crumbled)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or toasted)
- Optional: chopped green onions or bell peppers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven & Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of crumbled breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. You want the sausage to add flavor, not extra oil.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined, ensuring a smooth custard base for the casserole.
4. Combine Bread and Sausage:
- Add the cubed bread (about 4 cups, day-old or toasted) into the egg mixture. Stir to ensure that the bread is well-coated with the egg mixture. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, which will create that wonderful custardy texture after baking.
- Stir in the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together to ensure an even distribution of sausage and cheese throughout the casserole.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy, golden crust.
6. Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The casserole should be firm to the touch and slightly puffed up around the edges.
7. Let It Cool:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into it. This helps it set a bit more, making it easier to serve.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Veggies: Add chopped green onions, bell peppers, or even some spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños before baking.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can be sprinkled on top after baking for added freshness.
Tips:
- Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old bread or toasted bread is best for this casserole because it absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a fluffier texture. Fresh bread can become soggy.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight, and bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
This Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole is the perfect hearty breakfast or brunch dish that is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just feeding the family, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone!