There’s something so comforting about breakfast casseroles, don’t you think? They just scream cozy mornings and family gatherings! My absolute favorite is this hearty Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole. I remember the first time I made it for a holiday brunch; the aroma of sizzling sausage and melting cheese filled the kitchen, and everyone just couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s become a staple at our family get-togethers—everyone asks for seconds! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which is a dream when you’re juggling coffee and conversation. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll warm your heart and belly, making it a go-to for any occasion!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (I love using spicy sausage for an extra kick!)
- 8 large eggs (fresh is best, trust me!)
- 2 cups milk (whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use what you have)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to your taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is my go-to for flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (a must for that savory depth)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (because who doesn’t love onions?!)
- 4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but feel free to get creative with your favorite)
- 6 cups cubed bread (any kind works—stale bread adds a nice texture!)
How to Prepare the Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Making this delicious Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a breakfast that’ll impress everyone at the table.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly. You don’t want to end up with a soggy center, right? So, set that oven and let it warm up while you prepare everything else!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Next, grab a skillet and cook your breakfast sausage over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Stir it occasionally to make sure it cooks evenly. I usually break it up into smaller pieces with my spatula, which helps it get that lovely golden-brown color. The smell of the sausage sizzling is just heavenly!
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the sausage is cooking, take a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure it’s really well mixed! This is where all that flavor comes from, so don’t skimp on the whisking!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once the sausage is ready, add it to the egg mixture along with your shredded cheese and cubed bread. Give it a good stir to make sure everything’s evenly coated. You want every bite to have that delicious sausage and cheesy goodness, so mix it up well!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Now, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then pop it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and a little golden on top. Just keep an eye on it near the end to avoid overcooking!
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This step is super important because it allows the casserole to firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares. Trust me, you’ll want to let it rest before diving in. Grab a slice, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness with your favorite sides!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: You can whip this up in just about 15 minutes—perfect for busy mornings!
- Filling and Hearty: This casserole is packed with protein and flavor, sure to keep everyone satisfied until lunchtime.
- Customizable: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or swap out the cheese for something different—there are no rules!
- Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Whether it’s a family brunch or a potluck, this dish is sure to please a crowd with its generous servings.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning. Easy peasy!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!
- Check for Doneness: Make sure to test the center with a toothpick or knife. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Customize the Cheese: Don’t feel limited to just cheddar! Try mixing in Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even feta for a tangy twist. The world is your cheesy oyster!
- Add Vegetables: If you want to sneak in some greens, bell peppers, spinach, or even diced tomatoes work great! Just make sure to sauté them lightly before adding to the mixture so they don’t release too much moisture.
- Make It Ahead: You can prep this casserole the night before! Just assemble everything in the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, just bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Serve with Toppings: Consider topping your slices with fresh herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or even hot sauce for an extra flavor boost. It’s all about making it your own!
With these tips, you’ll be a breakfast casserole pro in no time! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Nutritional Information
As with all recipes, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. However, here are the estimated nutritional values for one slice of this delicious Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
Keep in mind these values are approximations, so if you’re keeping an eye on specific dietary needs, feel free to adjust the ingredients accordingly. Enjoy your hearty breakfast without the worry!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or even chicken sausage for something a bit different. The key is to choose a variety that you enjoy!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to keep the flavor strong!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I freeze the casserole?
You can definitely freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should last about 2 months in the freezer. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or even some crispy bacon on the side. It’s a complete breakfast that’ll satisfy everyone!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole properly is key to enjoying those delicious leftovers! Once the casserole has cooled completely, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to avoid any unwanted moisture or odors from sneaking in!
If you’re looking to keep it for longer, you can freeze the casserole! Slice it into portions for easy access later. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should last about 2 months in the freezer. Just be sure to label it with the date so you don’t lose track!
When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole again, here’s how to reheat it without sacrificing any flavor or texture. For refrigerator leftovers, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the slice in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
For frozen slices, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating, but if you’re in a hurry, you can microwave from frozen—just add a little extra time. You’ll be back to enjoying that warm, cheesy goodness in no time!
Print
Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole: 5 Comforting Tips
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring sausage and cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 6 cups cubed bread
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cooked sausage, cheese, and cubed bread to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the center is set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use any type of bread.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Sausage & Cheese Breakfast Casserole