Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
So, you’re tired of the same old breakfast routine? Cereal making you feel more “blah” than “rah”? Eggs looking at you with that same, sad, sunny-side-up stare? Now this is the undisputed champion of morning meals: the Breakfast Casserole with sausage. The dish so good, it makes bacon jealous.
Casserole recipes are the ultimate make-ahead meal, perfect for busy mornings and effortless entertaining.
Now, let’s talk about ingredient selection to baking tips, ensuring your casserole is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor.
What Makes This Sausage Casserole So Special?
This isn’t your average breakfast casserole. We’ve focused on creating a recipe that’s both easy to follow and delivers exceptional taste. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Flavorful Sausage Base: We use high-quality sausage, adding depth and richness to the entire casserole.
- Perfectly Cooked Eggs: The secret to a creamy, not rubbery, texture is in the precise cooking method for the eggs.
- Versatile Ingredient Options: Feel free to customize your casserole with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and herbs.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free brunch.
The Supporting Cast: Eggs, Cheese, and Other Delights
While sausage is the headliner, every good casserole needs a stellar supporting cast. We’re talking fluffy eggs, a glorious mountain of cheese (because cheese makes everything better, it’s a scientific fact). Bread? Veggies? A sprinkle of magic breakfast dust? Go wild!
How to Make the Perfect Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Follow these steps for a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, browned and crumbled
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Casserole? That sounds complicated. I’m not a kitchen wizard!” Relax. Putting together a breakfast casserole is easier than assembling a bookshelf, and way more satisfying.
It’s basically a delicious breakfast lasagna. Layer your ingredients, pop it in the oven, and boom! You’ve got yourself a breakfast masterpiece. This is one of the easy brunch recipes you can master.
Don’t Worry, It’s Easier Than IKEA Furniture:
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the browned sausage, cream of mushroom soup, milk, eggs, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add the cubed bread to the sausage mixture, stirring gently to coat the bread evenly.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Variations on the Classic Casserole with Sausage
This recipe is a fantastic base for endless variations. Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and herbs to create your own signature casserole. Here are a few ideas:
- Feeling fancy? Add some caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. Want a south-of-the-border twist? Throw in some chorizo, peppers, and a dash of cumin. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination (and your appetite).
- Spice it Up: For those who like a little kick in their morning meal, don’t be afraid to experiment with spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a few jalapeños can transform your casserole from mild-mannered to fiery and flavorful. Just be sure to have a glass of milk handy, just in case things get a little too heated.
- Veggie Power: Adding Some Green to the Scene. While sausage is the star, there’s no reason your casserole can’t be a nutritional powerhouse. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers not only boosts the health factor but also adds vibrant colors and textures to your dish.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Casserole
- Use day-old bread: Day-old bread soaks up the liquid better and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Don’t overmix: Gently mix the ingredients to avoid breaking down the bread too much.
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to prevent burning your mouth and allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with sides: Complement your casserole with fresh fruit, a side salad, or some crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerating:
Let the casserole cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
For longer storage, slice the cooled casserole into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- In the Oven: Place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
- In the Microwave: Heat individual slices for 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Breakfast sausage, either mild or spicy, is the classic choice. Italian sausage can also add a delicious savory flavor. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead recipe. Assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning according to the instructions.
Enjoy your delicious and easy breakfast casserole with sausage! This recipe is sure to become a breakfast staple in your household.
Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage browned and crumbled
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 6 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread day-old bread works best
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it up into small crumbles. If you’re using any optional vegetables (like bell peppers or onions), toss them into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
- Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will act as the base of your casserole and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 4: Mix the Egg Mixture
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, giving it that fluffy, custard-like texture.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage (and any sautéed vegetables, if using) evenly over the bread cubes. Next, pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure everything is well-covered. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top for that golden, melty finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the middle—it should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience.