Description
A hearty and flavorful Sausage Breakfast Casserole featuring browned breakfast sausage, eggs, whole milk, cheddar cheese, and cubed day-old bread baked to golden perfection. This casserole is a perfect make-ahead dish for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, offering a comforting mix of savory sausage and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Other
- 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 browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until fully combined and smooth.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer Bread Cubes: Spread the cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the baking dish to form the base layer.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Evenly spread the cooked sausage over the bread cubes, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers, pressing gently with a spatula to ensure the bread is fully soaked with the eggs and milk.
- Bake Covered: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped chives on top if desired for a fresh touch, then serve warm.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps absorb the egg mixture better and prevents sogginess.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sausage while cooking.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; refrigerate covered and bake in the morning.
- Ensure to drain excess grease from the sausage to avoid a greasy casserole.
