Delicious Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

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I’ve always had a soft spot for warm, cheesy, savory breakfasts that fill the kitchen with comfort and joy — and this Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole does exactly that. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or I’m feeding a hungry crowd for brunch, this dish never fails to impress. It’s one of those easy-to-prep recipes that feels indulgent without being fussy, and it’s become my go-to when I want something hearty, satisfying, and just plain delicious.

What I love most is how well this casserole fits into my routine. I can prep it the night before, pop it in the oven the next morning, and let the magic happen while I sip coffee. Layers of golden sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese come together over bread cubes that soak up all the rich flavor. It’s simple, it’s cozy, and it hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

This casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s rich, filling, and layered with comforting textures. It’s also versatile — perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a family breakfast. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making leftovers something to look forward to.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

The best bread for this casserole is day-old or slightly stale bread that holds its shape. Think crusty French bread, sourdough, or even a rustic white loaf. The bread soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without turning mushy, giving the casserole structure and a tender bite. Avoid overly soft sandwich bread, which can get soggy.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t eat pork? Swap the sausage with turkey or chicken sausage. You can also go vegetarian with plant-based crumbles or cooked mushrooms for a similar texture. Use any cheese you love — cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even Swiss. If you’re dairy-free, try dairy-free cheese alternatives and a splash of plant-based milk in place of the cream.

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Ingredients for This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Breakfast Sausage – This is the star of the dish, bringing in rich, savory flavor. Use bulk sausage or remove casings from links. Browning it first adds depth.

Eggs – The binding force of the casserole. They puff up beautifully when baked and help hold all the ingredients together.

Milk and Heavy Cream – These give the egg mixture richness and a creamy texture. You can substitute with all milk for a lighter version.

Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor and melts perfectly. You can mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a stretchier texture.

Bread Cubes – Choose a hearty bread like sourdough or French loaf. It acts as a sponge to absorb the egg mixture and provides structure.

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning. Add to taste depending on your sausage’s salt level.

Optional: Diced Onions, Bell Peppers, or Spinach – These add color, nutrition, and extra flavor if you want to level up your casserole.

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until fully browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and set aside. This step builds flavor and ensures the sausage doesn’t make the casserole greasy.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Layer

Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes. You can leave the crust on for texture. Spread the cubes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3: Add the Sausage

Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the layer of bread. Try to distribute it well so every bite gets a bit of sausage.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. You can reserve a little for topping later if you like a golden, cheesy top.

Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. This mixture will soak into the bread, creating that fluffy, custardy texture.

Step 6: Pour and Soak

Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Gently press the top with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid. Let it sit for 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead version.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. If it starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil in the last 10 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the eggs to finish setting and makes for cleaner slices. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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How Long to Prepare the Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Prep Time: If you’re preparing everything from scratch, it takes about 20–25 minutes to brown the sausage, cube the bread, whisk the egg mixture, and assemble the layers. It’s very hands-on at the start but straightforward and beginner-friendly.

Bake Time and Resting: Once assembled, the casserole needs to bake for about 45–50 minutes at 350°F. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set properly. If you prep it the night before, just add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.

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Tips for Perfect Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old bread for better texture — fresh bread can turn mushy.
• Always grease your baking dish to avoid sticking.
• Press the bread cubes gently after pouring the egg mixture to help with soaking.
• If you’re making this ahead, cover it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
• For extra richness, sprinkle a bit of cheese on top halfway through baking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: If the casserole gets too dry, it’s likely been in the oven too long. Check it around the 45-minute mark.
• Undermixing Eggs: Make sure the eggs and dairy are fully whisked, or the texture will be uneven.
• Using too much bread: Overloading the dish with bread can prevent the custard from soaking evenly.
• Skipping the rest time: Cutting too soon can make it fall apart. Let it rest.
• Salting too early: Some sausages are already salty, so taste your mix before adding extra salt.

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What to Serve With Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole?

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

A light, refreshing mix of berries, melons, or citrus offsets the richness of the casserole.

2. Buttery Croissants

For those who love a carb-on-carb moment, croissants or rolls make a delicious side.

3. Roasted Potatoes

Crispy breakfast potatoes seasoned with herbs are a classic brunch companion.

4. Yogurt Parfaits

Add some sweetness and creaminess with layered yogurt, granola, and fruit.

5. Green Salad

A simple arugula or spinach salad with vinaigrette brings balance to the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Freezer: This casserole freezes very well. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot.

Make-Ahead: Assemble everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate. The next morning, bake straight from the fridge (add 5–10 minutes to baking time).

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 19g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 210mg
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance can I make this casserole?

You can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge until ready to bake.

Can I use egg whites or egg substitutes?

Yes, you can substitute whole eggs with a carton of egg substitute or use a mix of egg whites and whole eggs for a lighter version.

What if I don’t have sausage?

You can use cooked bacon, diced ham, or even ground turkey or beef.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The center should be set and no longer jiggle. You can insert a knife into the middle — if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based milk (like oat or almond) and dairy-free cheese alternatives. Make sure your bread is also dairy-free.

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Conclusion

This Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is everything you want in a morning meal — comforting, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for prepping ahead, easily customizable, and guaranteed to please a crowd. Whether you serve it for a weekend brunch or holiday morning, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

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