Sausage and Egg Casserole

The Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty, comforting breakfast dish that has stood the test of time in kitchens everywhere. It’s a baked combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, melty cheese, and bread cubes that soak up all that rich, custardy goodness. Golden on top and soft inside, this casserole is a complete breakfast in one dish — satisfying, protein-packed, and deeply flavorful.

Whether you’re hosting a family brunch, preparing for the holidays, or simply want to meal-prep a make-ahead breakfast, this dish delivers. It’s easy to assemble, customizable with your favorite ingredients, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell incredible as it bakes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Sausage and Egg Casserole because it feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of fluffy eggs, juicy sausage, melted cheese, and crispy edges gives you all the comfort of a traditional breakfast without the hassle of cooking everything separately. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together the night before, pop into the oven in the morning, and serve to a table full of happy faces.

I especially adore how flexible it is — you can make it with spicy sausage for a kick, swap in vegetables for a lighter version, or use different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Every bite is cozy, rich, and deeply satisfying.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This casserole is an absolute must-try because:

• It’s a crowd-pleaser: Everyone — from kids to adults — loves the comforting flavors.
• It’s make-ahead friendly: Assemble it the night before for an easy, no-stress breakfast.
• It’s versatile: Works as breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner.
• It’s customizable: You can tailor it with different meats, veggies, or cheeses.
• It’s wholesome and hearty: Packed with protein to keep you full and energized.

It’s one of those timeless recipes that never fail to impress, no matter the occasion.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Breakfast / Brunch
• Cuisine: American
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix with mozzarella or Monterey Jack)
• 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or toasted; white, sourdough, or French bread)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch (or similar size) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
• Cube the bread and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly (about 6–8 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
3. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Stir in the shredded cheese, leaving some aside for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle cooked sausage and onions evenly over the bread.
3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, making sure all the bread is soaked.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
• To check doneness: insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

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How to Serve

Serve this Sausage and Egg Casserole warm with:

• Fresh fruit salad or orange slices for brightness
• Toast or croissants for extra indulgence
• A cup of coffee, tea, or fresh juice

It’s perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, potlucks, or breakfast-for-dinner nights.

Recipe Tips

• Use day-old bread: Slightly dry bread absorbs the custard mixture better and prevents sogginess.
• Add a vegetable twist: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms add color and nutrients.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
• Let it rest: After baking, rest for 10–15 minutes to set the texture.
• Double or halve easily: Adjust ingredient quantities to suit the crowd size.

Variations

• Cheesy Delight: Use a mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss for more flavor depth.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or spicy sausage for a bolder taste.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
• Meat Lovers’ Casserole: Add diced ham or bacon along with the sausage for an ultra-rich version.
• Crusty Top: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes before baking for a crispy golden topping.

Freezing and Storage

1. Refrigeration:
   Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
2. Freezing (Unbaked):
   Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
3. Freezing (Baked):
   Cool completely, cut into portions, and wrap individually. Freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm through (about 20 minutes).

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Foil (if storing or freezing)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this casserole overnight?
Yes! Assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next morning. It’s perfect for brunch or holidays.

Q2: Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely. French bread, sourdough, brioche, or even whole wheat bread works beautifully.

Q3: Can I replace milk with cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer texture.

Q4: Why is my casserole soggy?
Too much milk or not enough bread can cause sogginess. Always ensure bread fully absorbs the egg mixture before baking.

Q5: Can I reheat this casserole?
Yes. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Conclusion

The Sausage and Egg Casserole is a timeless, heartwarming breakfast dish that combines comfort and convenience in every bite. It’s ideal for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or special gatherings when you want something delicious without the fuss. The combination of golden eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese creates a flavor harmony that feels indulgent yet homely.

Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a family favorite — one you’ll return to time and time again for its simplicity, versatility, and pure comfort.

Sausage and Egg Casserole

The Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty, comforting breakfast dish that has stood the test of time in kitchens everywhere.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Breakfast

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Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 8

Ingredients

Servings

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound (450 g)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix with mozzarella or Monterey Jack)
• 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or toasted; white, sourdough, or French bread)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (or similar size) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Cube the bread and set it aside.
2. Step 2: Cook the Sausage : In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly (about 6–8 minutes). Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in the shredded cheese, leaving some aside for topping.
4. Step 4: Assemble the Casserole : Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cooked sausage and onions evenly over the bread. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, making sure all the bread is soaked. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
5. Step 5: Bake : Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check doneness: insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Step 6: Cool and Serve : Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

Keywords: Sausage and Egg Casserole