Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Imagine waking up to the smell of sizzling sausage, bubbling cheese, and fluffy eggs wrapped in a warm, hearty casserole. That’s exactly what this cheesy sausage breakfast casserole delivers — comfort in every bite and a guaranteed hit for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or anytime you want breakfast to feel like a celebration. It’s rich, savory, and the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of a family brunch tradition. Every Christmas morning, we’d gather around the table still in our pajamas, and someone would pull a hot, golden casserole from the oven. Over the years, I’ve tweaked and tested different combinations, but this version? It’s the one that stuck. With layers of cheesy goodness, tender bread, flavorful sausage, and eggs that bake to perfection, it’s everything you want in a make-ahead breakfast.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Breakfast casseroles are a staple in American kitchens, especially around the holidays. They became popular in the mid-20th century as convenient, prep-ahead dishes that could feed a crowd without stress. This version, packed with cheese and sausage, draws inspiration from Southern breakfast flavors, where hearty and indulgent reign supreme. It’s the kind of dish that’s as welcome at a weekend brunch as it is at a potluck.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This isn’t just any breakfast — it’s the one that has everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile: Swap ingredients to suit your tastes, from veggies to different cheeses.

Budget-Friendly: Feeds a crowd without fancy or expensive ingredients.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep, especially if you make it the night before.

Customizable: Use your favorite sausage, bread, or add in extras like spinach or mushrooms.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or weekend sleepovers.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before and just bake in the morning.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making your next breakfast effortless.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Making a great breakfast casserole is all about balance and baking. Here’s how to make yours shine:

• Use day-old bread to soak up the egg mixture without getting soggy.
• Brown the sausage until fully cooked and slightly crispy for deeper flavor.
• Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking before slicing.
• Mix the eggs and milk well to avoid streaky egg whites.
• Add shredded cheese both inside and on top for the best gooey melt.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.

Skillet: For browning the sausage.

Mixing Bowl: To whisk together eggs, milk, and seasoning.

9×13 Baking Dish: The ideal size to hold all your delicious layers.

Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the eggs and mix everything smoothly.

Foil: Useful for covering the casserole during baking to prevent over-browning.

Ingredients in Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece.

1. Breakfast Sausage: 1 pound. Adds flavor and protein, browned before layering.
2. Eggs: 8 large. The base that binds everything together and bakes up fluffy.
3. Milk: 2 cups. Lightens the eggs and gives the casserole a custardy texture.
4. Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. Melts into every bite for gooey, cheesy comfort.
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon. Brings out all the savory flavors.
6. Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a little warmth and balance.
7. Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon. For subtle depth and aroma.
8. Bread: 6 slices, cubed. Soaks up the egg mixture and gives body to the dish.
9. Green Onions (optional): 1/4 cup, sliced. Adds a fresh finish and pop of color.
10. Butter (for greasing): 1 tablespoon. Keeps the casserole from sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily tailor this recipe to your preferences or pantry.

Breakfast Sausage: Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage.

Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk work if you need a dairy-free option.

Cheddar Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend.

Bread: Use croissants, sourdough, or even hash browns.

Green Onions: Chives or sautéed diced onions also work.

Ingredient Spotlight

Breakfast Sausage: This savory protein brings bold flavor and texture to the dish. Choose a mildly spiced version or go hot for a kick.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a satisfying, melty richness. It contrasts beautifully with the soft egg custard and hearty sausage.

Instructions for Making Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This dish comes together easily and bakes into a bubbly, golden breakfast centerpiece.

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Place cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by shredded cheese and optional green onions.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour this mixture evenly over the sausage, bread, and cheese.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Slice into squares and serve warm. A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce on top takes it over the edge.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

This casserole has it all — crisp edges, melty cheese, soft savory layers of bread, and a fluffy, custardy center that’s deeply satisfying. The contrast of textures is what makes every bite interesting, while the sausage, garlic, and cheddar combine for rich, cozy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Keep these tips in mind for best results:

• Brown your sausage ahead of time and drain well to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Add extra cheese on top in the last 5 minutes of baking for a bubbly finish.
• Let it cool slightly before serving for easier cutting and better texture.
• For more color, toss in diced bell peppers or spinach.

What to Avoid

These mistakes can take your casserole from wow to whoops — here’s how to dodge them:

• Using fresh bread: It can make the casserole too soggy. Day-old is better.
• Undercooking: Make sure the center is fully set before pulling it from the oven.
• Skipping seasoning: A little salt and garlic go a long way to boosting flavor.
• Not letting it rest: It needs a few minutes after baking to firm up.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 410

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this casserole is how well it handles time. You can assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven. It also freezes beautifully — just thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Serve it with a fresh fruit salad, a mug of strong coffee, or a light green salad for brunch. It also pairs perfectly with orange juice or mimosas if you’re celebrating. Add some avocado slices or sour cream on the side for a creamy contrast.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Don’t let leftovers go to waste. Here’s how to turn them into something new:

• Chop and fold into a breakfast burrito.
• Dice and stir into cooked pasta with a little extra cheese.
• Reheat and top with a fried egg for brunch 2.0.
• Serve cold, cubed, as a protein-packed snack.

Additional Tips

• To make it spicy, add diced jalapeños or use hot sausage.
• Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top before baking for color and depth.
• Cut into smaller squares and serve as breakfast bites for a party.

Make It a Showstopper

Want to wow your guests? Top the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. Use a colorful dish or garnish each serving with a slice of avocado or a swirl of hot sauce. Clean slices, stacked just right, look amazing on a brunch buffet.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Twist: Use meatless sausage and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Tex-Mex Style: Add diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and serve with salsa.
• Mediterranean: Use feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
• Everything Bagel Inspired: Use bagel cubes and sprinkle everything seasoning on top.
• Mini Muffin Version: Pour into greased muffin tins for portable breakfast bites.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen sausage?

Yes, just thaw and cook it thoroughly before adding to the casserole.

Q2: Can I prep this a day ahead?

Absolutely. It actually gets better when it sits overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q3: Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes. Try sourdough, French bread, or even English muffins.

Q4: Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q5: Can I make this without cheese?

You can, though the texture and richness will change.

Q6: How do I know it’s done?

The center should be set, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat?

Microwave individual portions or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

Q8: Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes work great.

Q9: Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk, cheese, and butter alternatives.

Q10: How long can leftovers be stored?

Up to 4 days in the fridge, or 2 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

This cheesy sausage breakfast casserole is the ultimate comfort food that works just as well on a sleepy Sunday as it does for a festive brunch. It’s hearty, cheesy, flavorful, and comes together with such ease that you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Trust me, once you try it, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

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