Sausage Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Recipe

Sausage Breakfast Casserole: the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will transform your weekend brunch from ordinary to extraordinary! Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of savory sausage mingling with fluffy eggs and melted cheese – a symphony of flavors that promises a delightful start to your day. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience.

Casseroles, in general, have a rich history, often associated with resourcefulness and family gatherings. They represent a way to create a hearty and satisfying meal using readily available ingredients. While the exact origins of the Sausage Breakfast Casserole are a bit hazy, its popularity has exploded in recent decades, becoming a staple at potlucks, holiday celebrations, and casual get-togethers.

What makes this dish so universally loved? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The crispy, browned sausage provides a delightful savory counterpoint to the soft, custardy egg base. The melted cheese adds a creamy richness that ties everything together. But beyond the deliciousness, it’s the sheer convenience that truly shines. You can assemble it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and have a hot, satisfying breakfast ready with minimal effort. It’s the perfect solution for busy families or anyone who wants to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen. So, get ready to discover the magic of a truly exceptional breakfast!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular)
• 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for richness)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the Sausage and Bread

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is cook the sausage. I like to use a large skillet for this, so everything cooks evenly.

1. Cook the Sausage: Crumble the breakfast sausage into the skillet. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. You want to make sure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain the Grease: Once the sausage is cooked, drain off any excess grease. I usually tilt the skillet and use a spoon to scoop out the grease, but you can also use a colander if you prefer. Getting rid of the extra grease will prevent the casserole from being too oily.
3. Prepare the Bread: While the sausage is cooking, you can start preparing the bread. Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes. You can use a serrated knife for this, which makes it easier to cut through the crust.
4. Toast the Bread (Optional): This step is optional, but I highly recommend it! Toasting the bread cubes helps them hold their shape better in the casserole and prevents them from getting too soggy. You can toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. Alternatively, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, tossing them occasionally until they’re lightly browned.

Making the Egg Mixture

Now that the sausage and bread are ready, let’s move on to the egg mixture. This is what will bind everything together and give the casserole its creamy texture.

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. The dry mustard adds a nice little tang to the casserole, so don’t skip it!
2. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. I like to use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor, but you can use all cheddar or all Monterey Jack if you prefer.
3. Incorporate Sausage and Bread: Add the cooked sausage and bread cubes to the egg mixture. Gently toss everything together to make sure the bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture. You want the bread to soak up as much of the liquid as possible.
4. Add Green Onions: Stir in the chopped green onions. They add a nice fresh flavor and a pop of color to the casserole.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to assemble the casserole and get it into the oven.

1. Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make it easier to clean up later.
2. Pour into Baking Dish: Pour the sausage and bread mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
3. Press Down Gently: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press down on the mixture. This will help the bread soak up even more of the egg mixture.
4. Cover and Refrigerate (Optional): At this point, you can cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This is a great option if you want to prepare it ahead of time. The bread will have plenty of time to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in an even more flavorful and moist casserole. If you refrigerate it, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
5. Bake: If you’re baking the casserole right away, bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
6. Let it Rest: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set up a bit more and make it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

This sausage breakfast casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even better:

• Hot Sauce: Serve with your favorite hot sauce for a little extra kick.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a nice creamy tang.
• Salsa: Salsa is a great way to add some fresh flavor and spice.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, for a complete breakfast.
• Coffee or Juice: Don’t forget the coffee or juice!

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize this sausage breakfast casserole to your liking:

• Use Different Sausage: You can use any type of breakfast sausage you like, such as Italian sausage, maple sausage, or even turkey sausage.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the casserole, such as diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. Sauté them before adding them to the egg mixture.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this casserole gluten-free.
• Add a Topping: Sprinkle some extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top of the casserole before baking for a crispy topping.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles or sautéed vegetables.

Make Ahead Instructions

This sausage breakfast casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how:

1. Assemble the Casserole: Follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking.
2. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
3. Bake: When you’re ready to bake the casserole, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 50-60 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and set. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the casserole will be cold.

Storage Instructions

Leftover sausage breakfast casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it’s simple, delicious, and customizable. The combination of savory sausage, cheesy eggs, and crusty bread is a classic breakfast combination that everyone loves. The dry mustard adds a subtle tang that balances out the richness of the other ingredients. And the fact that you can prepare it ahead of time makes it perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Fat: 25-35 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams

Enjoy your delicious Sausage Breakfast Casserole!

Conclusion:

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your weekend brunch rotation. From the savory sausage and perfectly cooked eggs to the cheesy goodness that binds it all together, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe because it’s incredibly versatile, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, even on busy mornings. Forget slaving over a hot stove flipping pancakes – this casserole allows you to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved ones while a delicious and hearty breakfast bakes to golden perfection. But the best part? You can customize this Sausage Breakfast Casserole to your heart’s content! Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the sausage for chorizo for a spicy kick, or add some diced bell peppers and onions for extra veggies. For a vegetarian option, crumble in some plant-based sausage and load it up with spinach and mushrooms. The possibilities are truly endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives. * Add a side of fresh fruit salad for a balanced and refreshing meal. * For a spicier version, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. * Make it ahead of time! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Simply bake it in the morning for a stress-free breakfast. * Individualize it! Bake the mixture in muffin tins for easy grab-and-go breakfast muffins. These are perfect for meal prepping or packing in lunchboxes. * Cheese lovers, rejoice! Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of your favorites. * Add a layer of crispy hash browns to the bottom of the casserole dish for an extra layer of texture and flavor. * Consider adding a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning before baking for a savory and aromatic touch. I’ve made this casserole countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply a special weekend breakfast. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the kitchen, eager to dig in. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to bring smiles to faces. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of this incredible Sausage Breakfast Casserole. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and happy breakfasting! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures with this delightful casserole. Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!

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