Savory Breakfast Sausage & Cheese Casserole

There’s something incredibly comforting about starting your day with a warm, hearty breakfast that feels like a hug in a dish. For me, the Breakfast Sausage & Cheese Casserole is exactly that—a delicious, filling, and easy-to-make meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether it’s a lazy weekend morning or a special occasion like Christmas or Thanksgiving, this casserole has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs, all baked together into a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning, making it a lifesaver for busy mornings. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike can’t resist its cheesy, savory goodness. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to perfection, and now I’m excited to share it with you. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Breakfast Sausage & Cheese Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home too.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Breakfast sausage: The star of this dish, breakfast sausage adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the eggs and cheese. I recommend using a high-quality sausage with a good balance of spices for the best results. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative.

Eggs: Eggs are the binding agent that holds everything together. They create a fluffy, custard-like texture that makes the casserole light and satisfying. Always use fresh eggs for the best taste and consistency.

Milk: Milk adds creaminess to the egg mixture, ensuring the casserole isn’t too dense. Whole milk works best, but you can use 2% or even a non-dairy alternative like almond milk if you prefer.

Bread: Stale bread is ideal for this recipe because it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too mushy. I like using a hearty bread like sourdough or French bread, but any type will work.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese brings a tangy, melty goodness to the casserole. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. Be sure to season to taste, but don’t overdo it—the sausage and cheese already add plenty of saltiness.

Butter: Butter is used to grease the baking dish, preventing the casserole from sticking. It also adds a subtle richness to the dish.

Ingredients List

1 pound breakfast sausage
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
4 cups cubed stale bread (about 6 slices)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

How to Make Breakfast Sausage & Cheese Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown top.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Make sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will give the casserole its creamy, custard-like texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom, followed by the cooked sausage. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Finally, pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, making sure all the bread is soaked.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the bread time to absorb the egg mixture, ensuring a consistent texture throughout.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can test this by inserting a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This makes it easier to cut and allows the flavors to meld together.

Tips for Making this Recipe

Use stale bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy, so stale bread works best. If you don’t have stale bread, lightly toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for 10 minutes before using.
Prep ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven.
Customize the cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses for different flavor profiles. Gouda, Swiss, or even a bit of Parmesan can add a unique twist.
Add veggies: For a healthier option, toss in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole to avoid drying it out. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with bacon, ham, or even ground turkey. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients (like sausage) are gluten-free.

How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
It will keep for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with fresh fruit, a green salad, or even a side of hash browns for a complete breakfast spread.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Breakfast Sausage & Cheese Casserole! It’s a recipe that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to your table.