why make this recipe
Sausage Breakfast Casserole is an excellent choice for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts. It combines hearty ingredients that are satisfying and delicious. This casserole is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. With just one dish to bake, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.
how to make Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (spicy or mild)
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 8 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk or cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 5 cups day-old bread cubes (substitute with gluten-free bread cubes or cooked quinoa for gluten-free)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Optional: sour cream or salsa for serving
Directions:
- Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Drain excess fat, then add diced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This custard will soak into the bread and bind the casserole.
- Grease a casserole dish thoroughly. Layer the bread cubes evenly at the bottom. Spread the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture over the bread, then sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. Pour the egg mixture over all ingredients, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set. Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to serve warm and bubbly.
how to serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole warm, right out of the oven. You can cut it into squares and present it on a platter. For an extra touch, offer sour cream or salsa on the side for your guests to add as they like. Fresh parsley or chives make a lovely garnish on top to enhance both flavor and presentation.
how to store Sausage Breakfast Casserole
To store leftover Sausage Breakfast Casserole, allow it to cool completely first. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture. If you don’t have bread, cooked quinoa can be a great gluten-free alternative.
- You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it the next morning for an easy meal.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. Spinach, mushrooms, and different cheese varieties can make it uniquely yours.
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and adding more veggies such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Substitute the milk with a plant-based option if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning for a fresh meal.
What type of bread works best?
Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the liquid better. However, you can use any bread, including gluten-free options.
Can I freeze Sausage Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Once assembled, cover it well and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to cook it, bake it directly from frozen, but allow a bit more time in the oven.