Description
This hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, cheesy goodness, and comforting cubed bread, baked to a golden perfection. Perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Meat
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set the cooked sausage aside.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the cubed day-old bread across the bottom of the dish to form a base layer.
- Add sausage and cheese: Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese uniformly on top of the sausage layer.
- Pour egg mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture carefully over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Press gently on the top layer to help the bread soak up the egg mixture thoroughly.
- First baking phase: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake the casserole for 30 minutes to allow it to cook through without drying out.
- Second baking phase: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step browns the top, making it golden and slightly crisp, while ensuring the center is fully set.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped chives over the casserole for a fresh flavor and appealing look. Serve warm to enjoy its comforting flavors.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps the casserole absorb the egg mixture better, creating a moist texture.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute turkey sausage and use reduced-fat cheese and milk.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble it and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition.
