Easy Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Busy Mornings

Sausage Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish to kickstart your morning, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole is an absolute winner. It’s a quick and delicious Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe perfect for busy mornings that blends savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese into one satisfying meal. Ready in minutes, it’s the ideal solution for those rushed mornings when you want something warm, filling, and ready to fuel your day without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple and Speedy: This casserole comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute breakfasts.
  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with sausage, eggs, and cheese, it provides the protein and energy you need to power through your day.
  • Family Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults enjoy, bringing everyone to the breakfast table happily.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before to save even more time in the morning without sacrificing taste.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite veggies or cheese, so it never gets boring.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need are a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create layers of texture and flavor. Each one plays a crucial role, from the savory sausage to the fluffy eggs and cheesy topping.

  • Ground Sausage: The star protein with rich, savory flavors that infuse the casserole.
  • Eggs: Provide the creamy, fluffy base that holds everything together.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and richness for a tender texture.
  • Bread Cubes: Absorb the egg mixture and create a satisfying, soft bite.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooey, savory goodness on top and inside.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
  • Optional Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley, paprika, or garlic powder add extra depth with minimal effort.

Variations for Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Feel free to get creative with this Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe! It’s so easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences, making it a versatile breakfast go-to all year round.

  • Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to sneak in some greens and extra nutrients.
  • Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
  • Meat Alternatives: Substitute sausage with cooked bacon, ham, or turkey sausage for variety.
  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapenos, chili flakes, or hot sauce for a bold flavor twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes or skip the bread altogether and add extra eggs and cheese.
Easy Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Busy Mornings

How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Mix the Egg Base

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices until smooth and creamy. This mixture will soak into the bread cubes and bind everything together.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, evenly layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top, pressing lightly so the bread absorbs the liquid evenly.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until the casserole is set, golden on top, and cooked through. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up for easier slicing.

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Breakfast Casserole

  • Choose Quality Sausage: A flavorful sausage will really enhance the overall taste, so pick your favorite brand or try gourmet varieties.
  • Don’t Skip the Bread: Using slightly stale bread cubes allows better absorption of the egg mixture without turning mushy.
  • Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to maintain clean slices and prevent it from falling apart.
  • Use a Glass or Ceramic Dish: These materials provide even heat distribution for perfect baking.
  • Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate to save time in the morning.

How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens up the rich casserole beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair with fresh fruit, a light green salad, or crispy hash browns for a balanced and satisfying morning meal everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for personalized portions or cut into squares and stack for a fun brunch platter that encourages sharing and tasting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days, making it ideal for quick breakfasts or snacks later in the week.

Freezing

Wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months if you want a ready-to-bake breakfast on even the busiest mornings.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes for a speedy meal.

FAQs

Can I make the Sausage Breakfast Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives without compromising flavor or texture.

What kind of sausage works best?

Any ground breakfast sausage, spicy or mild, works well. For a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage are great substitutes.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, assembling the casserole a day ahead and refrigerating it overnight helps flavors meld and cuts down morning prep time remarkably.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular bread cubes with gluten-free bread or omit bread and add extra eggs and cheese for a custard-like bake.

How do I make the casserole less greasy?

Drain excess fat from cooking sausage and use a leaner sausage variety to reduce greasiness and keep the dish light and tasty.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is truly a lifesaver for busy mornings, combining convenience and comfort all in one dish. With its warm, savory flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become your new favorite morning routine staple. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking and enjoy a delicious start to your day every time!

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Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a quick, hearty, and flavorful morning meal combining savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and bread cubes for a satisfying and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy mornings, it can be made ahead and customized to suit various tastes, providing protein and energy to start your day right.

  • Author: Judy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Dairy

  • 1 lb ground sausage
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

Base

  • 4 cups bread cubes (preferably slightly stale; use gluten-free bread cubes for gluten-free option)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
  2. Mix the Egg Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices until smooth and creamy. This mixture will soak into the bread cubes and bind everything together.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, evenly layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the top, pressing lightly so the bread absorbs the liquid evenly.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until the casserole is set, golden on top, and cooked through. Let it rest a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up for easier slicing.

Notes

  • Choose quality sausage for enhanced flavor.
  • Use slightly stale bread cubes for better absorption without mushiness.
  • Allow the casserole to rest slightly before cutting to maintain clean slices.
  • Use a glass or ceramic baking dish for even heat distribution.
  • Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate to save morning prep time.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of casserole)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: sausage breakfast casserole, breakfast casserole, easy breakfast, make-ahead breakfast, savory breakfast, gluten-free breakfast

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