Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserol

Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserol

Introduction

Nothing says “comfort food” like a delicious casserole baked to golden perfection. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With layers of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, melty cheese, and a hint of herbs, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or need a satisfying meal for a busy weeknight, this casserole brings everyone together with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

History of the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

The origins of casseroles date back to ancient times, when people would bake a combination of meats, vegetables, and grains together in a single dish. The word “casserole” itself is derived from the French word for “saucepan,” reflecting the practice of using a deep dish to cook various ingredients together. This method became popular because it allowed home cooks to create a hearty, filling meal using only a few ingredients, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor.

Early Beginnings

Casseroles as we know them today gained popularity in the 19th century in Europe, particularly in France, where dishes were baked in earthenware or metal pans. They were brought to North America by immigrants and quickly became a staple in American cuisine. The technique of layering different ingredients and binding them with eggs, cream, or sauce made casseroles a versatile choice for families looking for convenient, one-dish meals.

The Rise of Breakfast Casseroles

The concept of a breakfast casserole likely developed in the mid-20th century, a time when convenience foods and make-ahead meals were becoming increasingly popular. As families gathered around the breakfast table on weekends or during holiday brunches, the breakfast casserole became a sought-after dish because it could be prepped the night before and simply baked in the morning. This made it a perfect solution for busy mornings or when hosting guests.

Breakfast casseroles often featured ingredients like eggs, bread, cheese, and meats such as sausage, bacon, or ham. This combination made them rich in protein, comforting, and filling. As the recipe evolved, cooks began adding a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach, to boost the nutritional value and add more flavors.

Cheesy Casseroles in American Culture

By the 1970s and 1980s, casseroles became synonymous with American comfort food. They were showcased in countless church cookbooks, potluck gatherings, and family dinners. The versatility of casseroles made them adaptable to personal tastes, dietary restrictions, and seasonal ingredients. The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole, in particular, emerged as a crowd-pleaser, combining the savory flavors of breakfast sausage and gooey cheese with the fluffy texture of eggs and bread.

Modern Adaptations

Today, the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a cherished dish, often appearing at brunch tables and holiday gatherings. Its popularity has continued to grow thanks to its versatility. Home cooks and chefs alike have adapted the classic recipe to suit different dietary preferences, using alternatives like turkey sausage, plant-based meat substitutes, or incorporating gluten-free breads. The addition of herbs, spices, and different types of cheese has also added unique twists to the traditional recipe.

This casserole has endured the test of time, remaining a beloved comfort food that brings people together, whether for a casual weekend breakfast or a celebratory brunch with loved ones. Its history is rooted in a tradition of convenience, creativity, and communal sharing—values that have kept it at the forefront of home-cooked meals for generations.

Casseroles have been a beloved part of culinary tradition for centuries. Originating in Europe, casseroles were traditionally made with a variety of ingredients layered in a single dish and baked in the oven. The word “casserole” is derived from the French term for “saucepan.” In the United States, breakfast casseroles gained popularity in the mid-20th century as an easy, all-in-one dish that could feed a crowd. Over the years, cooks have developed countless variations, incorporating meats, vegetables, and cheeses to create unique, comforting recipes.

Ingredients

6 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
1/2 cup diced onion
2 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or sourdough)
1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the casserole: Layer the bottom of the baking dish with the cubed bread. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, and onion over the bread layer. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the vegetables and sausage.
Pour the egg mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers, making sure everything is evenly soaked. Use a spatula to gently press down the mixture so that the bread absorbs the liquid.
Top with cheese and tomatoes: Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese on top. Arrange the sliced cherry tomatoes over the cheese layer.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, if desired.

Methods

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole involves a few key cooking methods that work together to create a hearty, satisfying dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each step:

Sautéing:

Purpose: Sautéing the sausage and vegetables (such as onions and bell peppers) before adding them to the casserole helps develop deeper flavors. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars in the sausage and vegetables, bringing out a sweetness and richness that wouldn’t be present if they were added raw.
Technique: Use a skillet over medium heat to cook the sausage until it is browned and slightly crispy. Remove excess fat if necessary. For the vegetables, a quick sauté until they’re tender (about 3-5 minutes) is enough. This also ensures that they won’t release too much water into the casserole while baking.

Whisking:

Purpose: Whisking the eggs, milk, and seasonings together ensures a homogenous mixture. This step evenly distributes the flavors and ensures a consistent texture throughout the casserole.
Technique: Use a whisk or fork to thoroughly combine the eggs, milk, and seasonings. The aim is to incorporate a little air to make the casserole fluffy and light.

Layering:

Purpose: The layering technique ensures that each bite of the casserole has a balanced combination of ingredients. By layering bread, sausage, vegetables, and cheese, you create a textural contrast and prevent ingredients from clumping together.
Technique: Start with the bread as the base, followed by a layer of sausage and vegetables, and then top with cheese. Pour the egg mixture over the layers, allowing it to soak into the bread for a cohesive structure.

Soaking:

Purpose: Letting the bread soak in the egg mixture before baking is essential for creating a cohesive casserole that holds together when sliced. This step prevents the bread from becoming dry and crumbly.
Technique: After pouring the egg mixture over the layered bread and sausage, gently press down with a spatula to ensure the bread soaks up the liquid evenly.

Baking:

Purpose: Baking at a moderate temperature (around 350°F/175°C) allows the eggs to cook evenly and the top to become golden brown without burning. Baking slowly also ensures that the casserole sets properly, with no runny or undercooked spots.
Technique: Bake the casserole uncovered in the center of the oven for 45-50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—it should come out clean, indicating that the eggs are fully cooked.

Resting:

Purpose: Allowing the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve. It also allows the flavors to meld together.
Technique: Remove the casserole from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it rest before cutting into squares or rectangles for serving.

Each of these methods contributes to the overall success of the dish, resulting in a delicious, well-structured, and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for any occasion!

The method used in this recipe is a combination of layering and baking. Each layer of ingredients serves a purpose: the bread soaks up the egg mixture to form a sturdy base, while the sausage and vegetables add flavor and texture. Baking at a moderate temperature ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and the top becomes deliciously golden and cheesy.

Benefits

This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is packed with protein from the eggs and sausage, making it a great option for a filling breakfast or post-workout meal. The colorful bell peppers add vitamins and antioxidants, while the cheese provides calcium and satisfying richness. The use of bread cubes helps utilize leftover or day-old bread, reducing food waste.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

For this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole, the nutritional values are estimated based on a typical serving size of 1 slice (assuming the casserole is divided into 8 equal portions):

Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 250mg
Sodium: 680mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 20% of the DV
Calcium: 25% of the DV
Iron: 10% of the DV

Key Nutritional Benefits

High in Protein: With 18 grams of protein per serving, this casserole is a great source of muscle-building nutrients and is perfect for a post-workout meal or a filling breakfast.
Rich in Calcium: The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese provides a significant amount of calcium, supporting bone health and teeth strength.
Good Source of Vitamins: Bell peppers add a substantial amount of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin. The inclusion of eggs contributes Vitamin A, essential for vision and immune function.
Low in Carbs: With only 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this casserole is relatively low in carbs, making it suitable for those following a moderate-carb or low-carb diet.

Detailed Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

For this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole, I’ve broken down the estimated nutrition values based on a typical serving size (assuming the casserole is divided into 8 equal portions):

Calories: 420 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 250mg
Sodium: 680mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 20% of the DV
Calcium: 25% of the DV
Iron: 10% of the DV

Nutritional Breakdown

Calories: This casserole is moderately high in calories, which makes it a filling meal choice. The combination of cheese, sausage, and eggs contributes to its calorie content, providing energy and satisfaction.
Fats: With 30 grams of total fat, this dish is quite rich, especially in saturated fats (15g), which come from the sausage and cheese. Reducing the fat content by using leaner meat or low-fat cheese options can make it more heart-friendly.
Cholesterol: The cholesterol level is high at 250mg per serving, mainly due to the eggs and sausage. This can be reduced by using fewer egg yolks or substituting some of the eggs with egg whites.
Sodium: At 680mg per serving, this casserole is on the higher side for sodium content. Consider using reduced-sodium sausage and cheese or cutting back on added salt to decrease the sodium levels, which is beneficial for those monitoring their blood pressure.
Carbohydrates: With only 15 grams of carbohydrates, this casserole is relatively low in carbs, making it suitable for those on moderate to low-carb diets. The carbs mainly come from the bread used in the casserole base.
Protein: With 18 grams of protein, this breakfast casserole is an excellent source of protein, supporting muscle repair and growth. The combination of eggs, cheese, and sausage makes this a protein-packed meal.
Vitamins & Minerals:

Vitamin A: The dish provides about 15% of the daily recommended value of Vitamin A, which is important for vision and immune health.
Vitamin C: The inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers adds a good amount of Vitamin C (20% of the DV), which aids in iron absorption and boosts the immune system.
Calcium: With 25% of the DV, the casserole is rich in calcium, supporting bone and teeth health. This comes from the cheese and milk used in the recipe.
Iron: The dish provides 10% of the daily value for iron, contributing to better oxygen transport in the blood.

Tips for Healthier Variations

Lower Calorie Option: Replace regular sausage with lean turkey sausage and use reduced-fat cheese.
Increase Fiber: Add fiber-rich vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the mix.
Reduce Saturated Fat: Use plant-based milk alternatives and choose low-fat cheese.
Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium sausage and cheese, and consider using fresh herbs instead of additional salt for seasoning.

This casserole offers a balanced profile of macronutrients and essential vitamins, making it a hearty and nutritious breakfast option.

For a Lower Calorie Option: You can reduce the overall calorie content by using turkey sausage instead of regular sausage and opting for low-fat milk and cheese.
To Increase Fiber: Consider adding chopped spinach or kale to the casserole for additional fiber and nutrients.
To Reduce Sodium: Use a low-sodium cheese and reduce the added salt in the recipe to lower the sodium content for a heart-healthier dish.

Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: 15% DV
Iron: 8% DV

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. For a visually appealing presentation, sprinkle fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or even a dash of smoked paprika over the top before serving. Pair it with a simple side salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish. If serving for brunch, accompany with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a cup of coffee.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Its rich layers and customizable nature make it perfect for any meal of the day. Best of all, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish that you can prepare the night before, making breakfast or brunch a breeze.

Perfect for Casserole Lovers

If you’re a fan of all things casserole, you’ll adore the versatility and ease of this dish. It’s a must-have for potlucks, family gatherings, or lazy weekend mornings. The possibilities for variation are endless—try adding mushrooms, spinach, or even swapping the sausage for bacon or ham to suit your taste.

Enjoy your cheesy, savory creation!