Breakfast just got better with this incredibly delicious and satisfying Sausage and Egg Casserole. This simple recipe delivers a hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of day, not just the morning. Our easy-to-follow steps ensure a customizable casserole that’s a breeze to prepare and even better as a make-ahead dish. Get ready to enjoy a stress-free start to your day with this amazing Sausage and Egg Casserole.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Egg Casserole
This delightful Sausage and Egg Casserole will quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches.
- Quick to assemble: You can put this dish together in no time, making your meal prep effortless.
- Uses everyday ingredients: You likely have most items already in your pantry and fridge.
- Perfect for meal prep: Prepare it the night before and simply bake in the morning for a fresh breakfast.
- Family-friendly and hearty: This savory casserole satisfies everyone, from kids to adults.
- Easily customizable flavors: Adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs.
Ingredients
This simple breakfast casserole relies on a few core ingredients to create a fulfilling dish. You’ll need these basics for your delicious Sausage and Egg Casserole.
- 8-10 large eggs: The foundation for a fluffy and rich texture.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (ground): Choose your favorite type for a savory flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: We recommend sharp cheddar for a tangy kick.
- 2 cups milk: Any fat percentage works well here.
- 2 slices sandwich bread: Cut into cubes, this adds structure and absorbs flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional): Enhances all the delicious flavors.
- Black pepper to taste: Freshly ground pepper is always best.
Notes & Substitutions
You have many options to customize this easy Sausage and Egg Casserole. Feel free to experiment with these suggestions.
- Sausage options: Try mild, spicy, or even maple-flavored sausage to change the profile.
- Cheese varieties: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend are fantastic alternatives.
- Milk alternatives: Use half-and-half or heavy cream for an even richer and creamier breakfast casserole.
- Bread: Slightly dried or day-old bread works best to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Add-ins: Incorporate diced onions, bell peppers, or fresh spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Bacon: Substitute the sausage entirely with cooked bacon, or combine both meats for a truly decadent dish.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make this fantastic Sausage and Egg Casserole. Gather these common kitchen items before you start.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for a family-sized casserole.
- Large mixing bowl: For combining all your ingredients easily.
- Skillet for browning sausage: Any non-stick or cast-iron skillet works.
- Whisk or fork: To scramble the eggs and mix ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
How To Make Sausage and Egg Casserole
Making this Sausage and Egg Casserole is straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time.
- Prepare your oven and dish: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the casserole from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
- Brown the sausage: Next, place the ground breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat thoroughly from the cooked sausage. This step is crucial for flavor and texture in your Sausage and Egg Casserole. According to FoodSafety.gov, ground meat and sausage should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Whisk eggs and milk: In a large mixing bowl, gently scramble the 8-10 large eggs with a fork until well combined. Then, pour in the 2 cups of milk and whisk everything together until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Add the browned and drained sausage, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, the cubed bread, 1 teaspoon of salt (if using), and black pepper to taste into the egg mixture. Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are evenly distributed. Make sure the bread cubes are well coated.
- Pour and bake: Carefully pour the entire Sausage and Egg Casserole mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the pan. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes. Baking in a casserole dish offers benefits such as even heat distribution and improved moisture retention, resulting in a consistently cooked and flavorful dish.
- Check for doneness: The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is done. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the eggs rubbery.
- Rest before serving: Once baked, remove the Sausage and Egg Casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set further, making it easier to cut into neat portions.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieve the perfect Sausage and Egg Casserole every time with these helpful tips.
- Use dry or slightly stale bread: This type of bread absorbs the egg mixture better, preventing a soggy bottom.
- Don’t over-mix the egg mixture: Mix just enough to combine ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to a less tender texture.
- Adjust baking time for casserole thickness: Thicker casseroles may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
- Test for doneness (no jiggle): Gently shake the dish; the center should be firm, not wobbly, indicating it’s fully cooked.
- Cover loosely if edges brown too fast: If the top is getting too dark, loosely tent the dish with foil.
- Ensure sausage is thoroughly drained: Excess fat can make the casserole greasy and less appealing.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This versatile Sausage and Egg Casserole is fantastic on its own, but also pairs well with many sides.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your casserole plain for a hearty meal, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Pair with fresh fruit, yogurt, or warm rolls for a complete breakfast spread.
- Garnish with fresh chives or chopped green onions right before serving for added color and flavor.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make ahead: Assemble the entire Sausage and Egg Casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning!
- Refrigerate leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Freeze individual portions: Cut cooled casserole into individual servings and freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1-2 months.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat larger pieces in the oven until heated through.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Easily make this casserole gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free bread.
- Meat changes: Substitute the breakfast sausage with diced ham, spicy chorizo, or lean turkey sausage.
- Add vegetables: Fold in sautéed mushrooms, wilted kale, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy kick: For those who love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
- Cheese blends: Experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Doubling the recipe: For a large crowd, simply double all ingredients and bake in two 9×13 inch dishes, or a larger roasting pan if you have one.
Nutrition
Understanding the estimated nutritional values for this Sausage and Egg Casserole can help you make informed dietary choices.
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. Please consult a professional for personalized dietary advice.
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 356 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 7 g |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Trans Fat | 1 g |
| Cholesterol | 246 mg |
| Sodium | 872 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Got questions about making the perfect Sausage and Egg Casserole? We have answers!
Can I use frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can add thawed and drained hash browns to the mixture for extra potato goodness.
How to prevent a watery casserole?
Ensure your sausage is thoroughly drained, and use slightly stale or toasted bread to absorb moisture.
Can I freeze it before baking?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar provides a classic flavor, but Monterey Jack or a Colby Jack blend also work beautifully.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based milk substitute and dairy-free shredded cheese in your Sausage and Egg Casserole.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Egg Casserole truly makes breakfast, brunch, or even dinner effortlessly delicious. It’s a simple, versatile, and incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoy making this easy recipe and savoring every hearty bite. Give this fantastic casserole a try soon! We’d love for you to share your feedback or any creative variations you discover in the comments below.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, scramble the eggs, then stir in the milk.
- Combine the remaining ingredients with the egg mixture, stir well, then pour into the prepared pan and bake for 30-45 minutes.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
- Dominiquehttps://goldfoodie.com/author/empirecipegmail-com/
