Breakfast Sausage Casserole is the perfect dish when you need a hearty, comforting meal that feeds a crowd with minimal effort. Whether it’s a holiday morning, a family reunion, or simply a lazy Sunday, this casserole brings everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma of baked sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepped the night before. That means no scrambling around in the morning—just pop it into the oven, and in about an hour, you’ll have a warm, savory breakfast ready to serve. It’s also flexible enough for variations, making it a versatile recipe to keep in your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Feeds a Crowd Easily: Serves 6–8 people in one dish.
- Minimal Morning Prep: Can be assembled the night before.
- Comforting & Satisfying: A balanced mix of protein, carbs, and cheesy goodness.
- Customizable: Change up the cheese, bread, or seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this hearty breakfast casserole, gather the following:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage – Mild or spicy, depending on preference.
- 1 tsp mustard powder – Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- ½ tsp kosher salt – Enhances the overall taste.
- 4 large eggs, beaten – The base that binds the casserole together.
- 2 cups whole milk – For richness and creaminess.
- 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes – Acts as the hearty base, absorbing the custard.
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully and adds savory flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Crumble the sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until evenly browned. Drain the excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together mustard powder, salt, eggs, and milk until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Stir in the cooked sausage, toasted bread cubes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is coated evenly with the egg mixture.
Step 4: Chill Overnight
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This step allows the bread to soak up the custard and ensures a fluffy texture.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for 45–60 minutes. Remove the cover, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C), and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set in the center.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm with fresh fruit, coffee, or your favorite breakfast sides.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance.
- Serve alongside crispy bacon or breakfast ham for extra protein.
- Add a side of hashbrowns or roasted potatoes for a hearty brunch spread.
- Drizzle with hot sauce or salsa for a little kick.
Variations to Try
Change the Protein
- Swap pork sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Switch the Cheese
- Try pepper jack for heat, Swiss for mild nuttiness, or a mix of cheeses for variety.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for extra crispiness.
Customize the Bread
- Replace white bread with sourdough, French bread, or even croissants for a richer taste.
- Use whole-grain bread for a heartier texture.
Add Vegetables
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Add diced tomatoes for freshness and color.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Sausage Casserole
- Toast the bread first – This prevents sogginess and helps it absorb the egg mixture better.
- Don’t skip the overnight chill – It develops the flavor and texture.
- Check doneness with a knife – Insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Let it rest before cutting – A short cooling time makes it easier to slice neatly.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings – Bake in two separate dishes to feed a big crowd.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate until baking time.
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooled slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze baked casserole portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
- Meal Prep Tip: Cut into individual squares and store in containers for grab-and-go breakfasts during the week.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving of 1 slice, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
(Values vary depending on the sausage and bread used.)
FAQs About Breakfast Sausage Casserole
Can I bake it right away instead of refrigerating overnight?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. The bread won’t have as much time to soak up the egg mixture, so it may be softer. If possible, chill for at least 2 hours before baking.
Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?
Absolutely. Using half-and-half will make the casserole even richer and creamier.
What’s the best bread to use?
Sturdy breads like French bread, sourdough, or Italian loaf hold up better than soft sandwich bread, which can get mushy.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
Use turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and whole-grain bread. You can also add vegetables for extra nutrients.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free bread and use a sausage brand that’s certified gluten-free.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Cover slices with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel on top to retain moisture.
Final Thoughts
Breakfast Sausage Casserole is the ultimate no-fuss meal for mornings when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With its cheesy, savory flavor and comforting texture, it’s a dish that pleases kids and adults alike. Whether for holidays, weekend brunch, or busy weekdays, this make-ahead casserole is a recipe worth keeping in your collection.