Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, yet for many of us, mornings are hectic. That’s why make-ahead recipes are such a blessing. A hearty, flavorful sausage and egg casserole is one of the best ways to ensure everyone in your household has a satisfying start to the day without a scramble at sunrise.
This casserole isn’t just practical—it’s delicious. It strikes the ideal balance between rich, savory sausage, creamy eggs, and just the right amount of melty cheese. By prepping it the night before, all you have to do is slide it into the oven the next morning, giving you time to focus on other tasks or simply enjoy a slower start to your day.
Why Make-Ahead Casseroles are a Breakfast Game-Changer
If you’ve never tried a make-ahead breakfast casserole, you’re in for a revelation. The concept is simple: you layer your ingredients, whip up a custard-like egg mixture, pour it over everything, and let it all sit in the fridge overnight. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb the eggs and milk, resulting in a perfectly creamy, evenly textured dish when baked. Come morning, you simply pop it in the oven, and in less than an hour, you have a warm, hearty breakfast that’s ready to serve.
For families with busy schedules, this is a huge time-saver. Instead of rushing to cook individual servings of eggs, sausage, and toast, you have one dish that covers all the bases. It’s also incredibly convenient if you’re hosting brunch or need a dish to take to a potluck. The hands-off baking time frees you to handle other preparations or, better yet, enjoy a cup of coffee while the casserole cooks.
Ingredients
- Ground breakfast sausage (pork or turkey): 1 pound (about 450g)
- Large eggs: 8
- Milk (whole, 2%, or a milk alternative): 2 cups (480ml)
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): 2 cups (about 8 ounces)
- White or whole-grain bread (cubed): 6–8 slices
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Ground black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Paprika (optional): 1/4 teaspoon for garnish
- Butter (optional, for greasing the dish): 1 tablespoon
Directions
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the bread layer: Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish, creating an even layer.
- Add sausage and cheese: Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes, followed by a layer of shredded cheese.
- Mix the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, add a pinch of paprika.
- Pour and soak: Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure the bread is fully soaked in the egg mixture.
- Refrigerate overnight (optional): Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the bread absorbs the egg mixture.
- Bake: When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45–50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutritional Information (per serving) (Approximately 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: ~16g
- Fat: ~16g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~500mg
A Versatile Dish for All Occasions
While this sausage and egg casserole is a standout breakfast option, it’s also versatile enough to serve at other times. It’s a hit at brunches, holiday gatherings, and even casual lunch or dinner settings. Pair it with a crisp green salad, some fresh fruit, or a platter of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s satisfying any time of day.
Additionally, the casserole can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Love a bit of heat? Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkling of chili flakes. Prefer a vegetarian option? Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. The basic formula is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to get creative and tailor the flavors to your liking.
Nutritional Benefits and Options
This casserole isn’t just about convenience and flavor—it can also be a nutrient-packed start to your day. Eggs are a fantastic source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins, while sausage provides a savory, protein-rich element that helps keep you feeling full. If you’re looking to lighten it up, there are simple substitutions:
- Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork for a leaner option.
- Opt for low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce overall calories.
- Consider whole-grain bread to boost fiber content.
Even with these adjustments, the casserole maintains its comforting, satisfying character, making it a balanced choice that can fit into a range of dietary preferences.
Tips for the Best Casserole Results
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, consider these tips:
- Choose the right bread: Slightly stale or day-old bread works best. It soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too mushy, resulting in a creamy, custard-like interior with a lightly crisped top.
- Let it sit overnight: Don’t skip the resting period. It allows all the flavors to meld together, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
- Bake until set: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. The center should be just set—no longer jiggly—and the edges should be golden. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so test with a knife or toothpick to ensure the perfect doneness.
- Garnish for extra flavor: Before serving, consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. It adds a fresh, vibrant note that complements the rich, savory casserole.
FAQs About Make-Ahead Sausage and Egg Casserole
- Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely. While traditional breakfast sausage is a classic choice, you can use Italian sausage, spicy chorizo, or even chicken sausage. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and crumbled before adding it to the casserole. - Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes. You can freeze the unbaked casserole after assembling it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. - What if I don’t have time to let it sit overnight?
While the overnight soak gives the best results, you can let the casserole sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before baking. This will still allow the bread to absorb the custard mixture, though the texture may be slightly less uniform. - Can I make it without cheese?
Yes. If you prefer a cheese-free version, simply omit the shredded cheese. The casserole will still be creamy and flavorful. - How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is ready when the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden, and the edges will be slightly crisp.
Conclusion: A Hassle-Free Way to Start Your Day
The make-ahead sausage and egg casserole is a breakfast classic that combines ease, flavor, and versatility. By doing the prep work the night before, you save valuable time and energy in the morning. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, preparing for a holiday brunch, or simply making your weekday mornings less stressful, this casserole is a go-to solution. Its savory, hearty layers of bread, sausage, eggs, and cheese offer a comforting, satisfying start to any day, ensuring that everyone at the table begins their morning with a smile.
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Make-Ahead Sausage and Egg Breakfast
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Overnight Sausage Egg Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and savory breakfast dish perfect for busy mornings or special gatherings. With minimal prep the night before, you can wake up to an easy, ready-to-bake casserole that’s sure to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 package pork sausage (16 oz)
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 large eggs, slightly beaten
- 4 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pork sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
- Drain excess grease and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the bread.
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, onion powder, and pepper until fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese.
- Top with the cooked sausage, spreading it evenly over the surface.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap or foil.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour, or until the center is set and no longer jiggly. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent the casserole with foil.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and bake it fresh in the morning.
- Substitutions: Use sourdough, French bread, or whole-grain bread instead of regular bread for added flavor.
- Add-Ins: Enhance the casserole with diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
