This hearty sausage and egg casserole is perfect for breakfast or brunch! It layers savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese for a warm, comforting dish that will fill you up.
One bite of this casserole, and it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. I love making it the night before—just pop it in the oven in the morning for an effortless meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage for this dish. I often go for pork for its richer flavor, but turkey is a healthier option.
Eggs: Large eggs are best, but if you have medium or extra-large, feel free to use them! Just keep the ratio of eggs and milk similar.
Milk: Regular or low-fat milk works well, but you can swap it for almond or oat milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just note the flavor might change slightly!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor! If you need a substitute, pepper jack offers a nice kick, while mozzarella gives a mild taste.
Diced Bread: Stale or day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture better. You can use any bread like sourdough, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Cooked Evenly?
Getting your casserole just right can be tricky! Follow these tips to ensure even cooking:
- Cook the sausage fully and drain the grease; this helps prevent the casserole from being greasy.
- Layer the ingredients carefully. Start with sausage, then cheese, followed by bread. This order helps distribute flavors evenly.
- When pouring the egg mixture, drizzle it slowly over the bread. This helps it soak properly and cook evenly throughout.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. If the top gets too brown before the center is set, cover loosely with foil.
How to Make Sausage and Egg Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup diced bread (preferably day-old or stale)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. So, you can have it ready in under an hour! Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that nice golden brown color.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir until the sausage is fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from being too oily.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of milk. Add the salt, black pepper, and onion powder (if you like a bit of extra flavor). Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy.
4. Layer the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with a little oil or cooking spray. First, layer the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage. Then, take the diced bread and evenly distribute it on top of the cheese, pressing down lightly so it sticks.
5. Pour and Top:
Pour the egg mixture over the bread layer, making sure it covers everything nicely. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top to give that delicious cheesy crust.
6. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. It might puff up a little too—don’t worry, that’s normal!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit more and makes it easier to slice. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Sausage and Egg Casserole! Perfect for starting your day off right or anytime you want a hearty meal.
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or even a meat-free alternative if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Can I Substitute the Bread for a Gluten-Free Option?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free! Just swap the regular bread for gluten-free bread. Stale gluten-free bread works best for texture, so feel free to dry it out a bit before using.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or place the whole casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole the night before! Just follow the instructions up to pouring the egg mixture over the bread layer. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
