Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Introduction
The Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a comforting, savory baked dish layered with fluffy eggs, seasoned sausage, creamy cheese, and sometimes bread or hash browns. It’s a classic in American breakfast culture, often served for big family gatherings, holiday mornings, and potlucks. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), crumbled
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
6 cups cubed bread (day-old or lightly toasted)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing dish)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage – In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
- Prepare the Bread Base – Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- Layer the Ingredients – Spread cooked sausage evenly over the bread. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese and mozzarella on top.
- Add Cream Cheese – Drop small spoonfuls of cream cheese evenly across the top for a creamy layer (optional).
- Make the Egg Mixture – In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Assemble – Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread layers. Lightly press down so the bread absorbs the mixture.
- Add More Cheese – Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top.
- Bake – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is set.
- Rest & Serve – Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing into squares.
Methods
Layering Method – Properly layering bread, sausage, and cheese ensures even flavor in every bite.
Pre-Baking Chill Method – For extra flavor, assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking.
Moisture Control – Use day-old bread so it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
History
Breakfast casseroles rose in popularity in mid-20th-century America when convenience cooking became a household trend. Families wanted hearty, easy-to-make meals that could be prepared ahead of time. The sausage-and-egg version became a staple in church potlucks, holiday brunches, and bed-and-breakfast menus across the U.S.
Benefits
High in Protein – Great for starting the day with energy.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Saves time on busy mornings.
Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for gatherings or meal prepping.
Customizable – Can be adapted with vegetables, different meats, or cheeses.
Formation
This casserole has a golden, slightly crispy top with a fluffy, eggy interior. The sausage is nestled throughout, and the cheese melts into gooey pockets.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fat: 32g
Sugars: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
The Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a reliable, satisfying dish that never fails to bring smiles to the breakfast table. It’s hearty, cheesy, and comforting — exactly what you want in a morning meal.
Lovers
This dish is adored by:
Brunch hosts who need a crowd-pleaser
Families looking for weekend breakfast traditions
Meat and cheese lovers who enjoy savory comfort food