If you’re searching for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast dish that feels like a warm morning hug, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly combines savory sausage, gooey melted cheddar, fluffy eggs, and comforting bread cubes soaked in a rich custard, creating layers of flavor and texture that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting brunch or craving a make-ahead weekday breakfast, this recipe delivers on taste, simplicity, and that satisfying feeling of home-cooked comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe plays a vital role, contributing to the perfect balance of richness, heartiness, and texture. From the savory sausage to the sharp cheddar cheese and custardy eggs, each element enhances the final dish in its own delicious way.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite brand for a flavorful, savory base that packs a punch.
- 6 large eggs: Essential for creating the rich custard that binds the casserole together.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps soak the bread perfectly.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the casserole, giving it a sharp, indulgent finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle, savory aroma that complements the sausage.
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread: Stale bread is perfect here because it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart.
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional): Adds a fresh, oniony burst as a pretty garnish.
How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by browning the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s beautifully crumbled and golden. This step infuses the casserole with a rich, meaty flavor. Once cooked, drain the excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily and set the sausage aside. Trust me, this savory layer is what makes the casserole so crave-worthy.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined and slightly frothy. This luxurious custard is what will soak into the bread cubes, making every bite creamy and tender—the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick. Then spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom. Using day-old bread is a game-changer here because it absorbs the custard without turning mushy, giving you that perfect bite every time.
Step 4: Layer Sausage and Cheese
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread layer, then top it with shredded cheddar cheese. The contrast between the savory sausage and sharp cheddar cheese creates a beautiful symphony of flavor and melts into a golden blanket as it bakes.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture over the layers, pressing down gently to make sure the bread cubes soak up all that custardy goodness. This step ensures every morsel is infused with the rich and creamy egg base, resulting in the perfect soft yet structured texture.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to cook evenly and the custard to set without overbrowning the top. This slow bake is key to achieving that wonderful balance of gooey center and firm edges.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered Until Golden
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step gives the casserole a golden, slightly crispy top that adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy interior. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped chives if you like a burst of color and mild onion freshness. Serve the casserole warm to delight in the full depth of its flavors and comforting textures.
How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped chives are a classic choice, lending a pop of green and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish. You can also try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh finish that complements the richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad or roasted seasonal veggies. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, charming touch. You could also add layers of sautéed mushrooms or chopped bell peppers between the bread and sausage layers to sneak in some veggies and brighten both flavor and color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick grab-and-go breakfast that only needs reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results. It’s perfect for prepping meals ahead of busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes, or warm the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through. This keeps the casserole moist and prevents the edges from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can swap in spicy Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative to suit your taste and dietary needs. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before assembling the casserole.
What kind of bread works best?
Day-old white or French bread cubes work best because they hold up well when soaked in the custard without becoming mushy. You can also experiment with sourdough or whole wheat breads for a nuttier flavor and heartier texture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread cubes. Just like the regular bread, they should be slightly stale to absorb the egg and milk mixture properly.
Is it possible to add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook the vegetables beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the center is set and not jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should also be golden brown but not burnt.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser filled with comforting flavors and textures that make mornings feel special. It’s easy enough for a weekday breakfast but impressive enough to serve for guests on the weekend. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a go-to favorite for busy family breakfasts and leisurely brunches alike. Don’t wait—grab those simple ingredients and make your morning magical!
Print
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and cubed day-old bread to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for brunch or a weekend breakfast, this casserole is easy to prepare and bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection. Topped with optional fresh chives, it offers a deliciously flavorful start to your day.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined and smooth.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the cubed day-old bread across the bottom of the dish to form a base layer.
- Assemble Layers: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the sausage layer.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers. Press gently on the bread cubes to ensure they are fully soaked in the egg mixture.
- Bake Covered: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing the casserole to set and cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped chives for a fresh touch. Serve the casserole warm for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
Notes
- Using day-old bread is important as it absorbs the egg mixture better, preventing sogginess.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite type such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
