Start your day the right way with a mouthwatering sausage breakfast casserole. This dish is a perfect blend of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, all baked together for a hearty meal that will satisfy everyone at the table. Whether for a holiday brunch or a simple weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to impress and keep you full until lunch. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g of fat, 28g of carbohydrates, and 18g of protein. This is based on a typical serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
- Fold in the cooked sausage and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the casserole is set and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions. Additionally, feel free to mix in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This sausage breakfast casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or hash browns.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using stale bread can result in a dry casserole.
- Not whisking the eggs thoroughly can lead to an uneven texture.
- Overbaking will make the casserole rubbery.
- Skipping the greasing step may cause sticking.
- Not letting it cool slightly before serving can make it hard to cut.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
- Consider adding chopped tomatoes for a fresh twist.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage and add more vegetables to make it a hearty vegetarian option.
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, feel free to use any bread you prefer, like sourdough or whole grain, for different textures and flavors.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with fresh fruit, coffee, or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole should be set in the middle and golden brown on top. You can also insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Conclusion
This sausage breakfast casserole is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for any breakfast table. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy a delightful start to your day!
Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 3 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
- Fold in the cooked sausage and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the casserole is set and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
