Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe (with Video)

Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe: Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast idea? A sausage breakfast casserole is the perfect dish to start your day. Packed with protein, cheese, and savory flavors, this casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is your go-to guide for a comforting breakfast that satisfies every craving.

What is a Sausage Breakfast Casserole?

A sausage breakfast casserole is a baked dish that combines breakfast staples like sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread or hash browns. Think of it as the ultimate breakfast comfort food. The ingredients are layered or mixed together in a casserole dish and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s versatile, meaning you can add or substitute ingredients to suit your tastes, making it a staple recipe for any breakfast table.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

There are countless reasons why this sausage breakfast casserole deserves a spot in your recipe collection:

1. Ease of Preparation: With just a few steps, you can create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
2. Customizable Options: From veggies to different types of cheese, the possibilities are endless.
3. Perfect for Groups: This casserole feeds a crowd, making it ideal for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well in the fridge or freezer, saving you time on busy mornings.

Ingredients Needed for Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Main Ingredients

• Sausage: Use your favorite breakfast sausage, whether it’s spicy, mild, or flavored.
• Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and fluffiness.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend works wonderfully.
• Bread or Hash Browns: Bread cubes create a fluffy texture, while hash browns add a heartier, more rustic feel.

Seasonings and Optional Add-ins

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for an added kick.
• Veggies: Diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• A large baking dish (9×13 inches recommended).
• Mixing bowls for whisking the egg mixture.
• A whisk or fork to blend ingredients smoothly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepping Your Ingredients

1. Start by cooking your sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Crumble it into small pieces and cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
2. If using bread, cut it into 1-inch cubes. For hash browns, ensure they’re thawed and patted dry.
3. Shred your cheese or use pre-shredded for convenience.

Step 2: Making the Egg Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 10–12 eggs with 1 ½ cups of milk (or cream for extra richness).
2. Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred spices. For a herby touch, add parsley or thyme.

Step 3: Assembling the Casserole

1. Grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Spread the bread cubes or hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish.
3. Layer the cooked sausage over the base, followed by shredded cheese and any vegetables.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all layers are soaked.

Step 4: Baking the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes or until the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Serving Suggestions

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs. Pair it with toast, a fresh fruit salad, or a hot cup of coffee for the perfect breakfast combo.

Tips for the Best Sausage Breakfast Casserole

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh sausage with natural seasonings for the best flavor.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning.
• Avoid a Soggy Casserole: Use stale bread or toast the cubes to prevent excess moisture.

Customizing Your Breakfast Casserole

Substitutions for Ingredients

• Swap out sausage for bacon or a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Use gluten-free bread or hash browns if needed.

Additional Add-Ins for Flavor

• Add a kick with jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Experiment with cheeses like feta or pepper jack for unique flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To Reheat: Microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes for a freshly baked feel.

To Store: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

FAQs about Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

1. What ingredients do I need for a sausage breakfast casserole?

To make a sausage breakfast casserole, you will need ground sausage, eggs, milk, shredded cheese, cubed bread or hash browns, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley.

2. Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole the night before. Simply assemble the ingredients in your baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit while you preheat your oven, and then bake as directed.

3. How long does it take to bake a sausage breakfast casserole?

Typically, a sausage breakfast casserole takes about 45 minutes to bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. However, times can vary depending on the depth of the dish and your oven, so it’s best to check that the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

4. What are some variations I can try with this casserole?

This versatile dish can be customized in many ways. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. For a spicier version, mix in some chopped jalapeños or use spicy sausage. You can also swap out the sausage for bacon or ham if preferred.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Leftover sausage breakfast casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave, covered, for about one minute or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm.

Conclusion

Sausage breakfast casserole is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether for a lazy weekend or a holiday morning, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and just the thing to start your day right.