Description
This delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Featuring savory browned breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and soft bread cubes, this casserole is easy to prepare ahead and bakes to golden perfection. It offers a satisfying combination of protein and carbs that can be refrigerated overnight and baked fresh in the morning for a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Casserole Base and Topping
- 6 slices white sandwich bread, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain the excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Prepare the bread layer: Cut the white sandwich bread into cubes and evenly layer them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base of the casserole.
- Add sausage and cheese: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage layer.
- Mix the eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down so the bread soaks up the egg mixture evenly.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully for a better texture.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until it is golden brown on top and the egg mixture is completely set.
- Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- For a crustier top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to substitute the white bread with whole wheat or a gluten-free bread if preferred.
- You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- This casserole can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
- Refrigerated leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick breakfast.
