Oh, there’s just something so comforting about a hearty breakfast that warms you right up, isn’t there? This Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is like a big, cozy hug on a plate! It’s packed with savory sausage, melty cheese, and soft, fluffy bread, making it the ultimate morning meal. What I love most is how easy it is to whip up—just toss everything together in a baking dish, and let the oven do the magic! Perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends, this casserole checks all the boxes: it’s satisfying, full of flavor, and can feed a crowd. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound of sausage (any type you love, I usually go for breakfast sausage for that classic flavor)
- 6 large eggs (the fresher, the better! They really make a difference in taste)
- 2 cups of shredded cheese (I like a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that melty goodness)
- 2 cups of cubed bread (day-old bread works great; it soaks up all those delicious flavors)
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk is my go-to for creaminess, but you can use any kind)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (adjust to your taste, especially if your sausage is salty)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (to give it a little kick, but feel free to spice it up more if you like!)
How to Prepare Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Alright, let’s get this breakfast party started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven means your casserole will cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown on top. While that’s heating up, grab a skillet and cook your sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and delicious—about 5 to 7 minutes should do it. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks, so you get that savory goodness throughout the casserole.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until it’s all combined and frothy. This is where the magic begins! Once your sausage is cooked, throw it into the bowl with the egg mixture, along with the shredded cheese and cubed bread. Give it a good stir—just enough to coat everything nicely. Now, pour that glorious mixture into a greased baking dish (don’t skip the greasing, or you might be scraping it off later!).
Finally, pop it in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all set and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and then dig in! This casserole is best enjoyed warm, but believe me, it tastes incredible even as leftovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Add the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and cubed bread to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Grease a baking dish and pour the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes before cutting into slices and serving. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings!
- One-dish wonder—less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal.
- Rich, savory flavors that everyone will love.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
- Hearty and filling, it’s a breakfast that keeps you satisfied.
Tips for Success
To really nail your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole, here are some handy tips! First, make sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned; this adds so much flavor! Don’t rush the mixing—gently combine your ingredients to avoid mushiness. If you want an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash more milk or even a dollop of sour cream to the egg mixture. Also, let your casserole sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it firm up a bit, making cutting and serving easier. And if you’re using fresh bread, give it a little time to dry out before cubing, as it soaks up the egg mixture better. Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with your add-ins—herbs or veggies can elevate this dish even more!
Variations for Your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is! You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For a spicy kick, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sausage while it cooks. You can also swap out the sausage for crispy bacon or even some sautéed veggies like bell peppers and spinach for a lighter option.
If you want a different flavor profile, why not experiment with different cheeses? Feta or pepper jack can add a delightful twist! And for those who love a bit of sweetness, consider adding some diced apples or pears along with a pinch of cinnamon. Trust me, these simple changes can take your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole from good to amazing!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
You’re going to love how easy it is to store leftovers from your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole! First, let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick meal. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it into portions, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave for a quick fix, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Trust me, it’s just as delicious the second time around!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is just a guideline. Typically, one slice of my Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole contains about 250 calories, 15g of fat, 14g of protein, and 16g of carbohydrates. It’s a hearty start to your day that balances flavor and nutrition, making it a delightful breakfast option!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great lower-fat alternative, and it adds a tasty flavor to your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole. Just be sure to cook it well before adding it to the egg mixture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before! Just assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What type of cheese works best?
I love a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect meltiness, but feel free to experiment! Feta, pepper jack, or even gouda can bring unique flavors to your dish.
How do I make this casserole vegetarian?
No problem! Just skip the sausage and load it up with your favorite veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also add some beans for added protein!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, definitely! Just slice it into portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned before. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole: 7 Delicious Secrets
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty and satisfying casserole perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of shredded cheese
- 2 cups of cubed bread
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage, cheese, and bread to the egg mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden brown.
Notes
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer.
- Add vegetables for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole