How to Make a Delicious Breakfast Casserole: Perfect for a Make-Ahead Morning
When it comes to easy, delicious, and satisfying breakfast options, few dishes compare to a breakfast casserole. This casserole is packed with flavor from savory pork sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked into a base of toasted bread cubes. The best part? You can prepare this dish the night before, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions like Christmas breakfast. With just a little prep the night before, you can pop it into the oven in the morning for a hearty, no-fuss meal that will please the whole family. Here’s how to make this delicious breakfast casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for this breakfast casserole:
- 1 lb ground pork sausage
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 4 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful casserole that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by crumbling the pork sausage into a medium skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is evenly browned and fully cooked. Once the sausage is cooked through, drain off any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mustard powder, kosher salt, beaten eggs, and whole milk. Make sure the eggs are well-beaten and the mixture is fully combined to create a smooth, custard-like consistency.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Now it’s time to assemble the casserole. In the same bowl with the egg mixture, add the cooked sausage, toasted bread cubes, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the sausage, bread, and cheese are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Chill
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This chilling time allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a moist and flavorful casserole once baked.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
When you’re ready to bake the casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake the casserole for 45 to 60 minutes. After this time, uncover the dish and reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into portions. Serve warm, and enjoy this hearty breakfast!
Tips for Perfecting Your Breakfast Casserole
Making this casserole is simple, but here are a few tips to help you perfect the recipe:
1. Use Stale Bread for Best Results
Using slightly stale bread can help the bread cubes hold their shape during baking and absorb more of the egg mixture. If your bread is fresh, you can toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out slightly.
2. Customize the Cheese
While mild cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Sharp cheddar, Swiss, or even Monterey Jack can add different flavors to the casserole.
3. Prepare the Night Before
This casserole is perfect for prepping the night before and baking in the morning. Be sure to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours so the bread can soak up the egg mixture for a moist and flavorful dish.
4. Don’t Overbake
Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set, and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. Overbaking can result in a dry casserole, so aim for a golden brown top and moist interior.
5. Add Extra Vegetables or Seasonings
Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also enhance the flavor with additional seasonings like black pepper, thyme, or paprika.
FAQs: Your Breakfast Casserole Questions Answered
1. Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before and Bake It in the Morning?
Yes! One of the great things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply preheat your oven and bake it as directed. This makes it a perfect dish for busy mornings or special occasions when you want to spend less time in the kitchen.
2. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat, Like Bacon or Ham, Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! This casserole is highly customizable. You can substitute the pork sausage with your favorite breakfast meats like bacon, diced ham, or turkey sausage. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
3. Can I Use Whole-Grain Bread Instead of White Bread for a Healthier Version?
Yes, you can use whole-grain bread instead of white bread for a healthier option. Whole-grain bread will add extra fiber and nutrients to the dish, while still providing the same delicious texture and flavor.
4. What Can I Serve with This Casserole to Make a Complete Breakfast Spread?
To create a full breakfast spread, consider serving the casserole with fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries. You can also add sides like hash browns, roasted vegetables, or even a fruit salad to complement the dish. Don’t forget beverages like coffee, tea, or juice to round out the meal.
5. Can I Freeze Leftovers of This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
6. Can I Make This Casserole Without Meat for a Vegetarian Version?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this casserole by omitting the pork sausage. Instead, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for flavor and texture. The result will be a delicious, meatless breakfast casserole that’s just as satisfying.
7. What Can I Use as a Substitute for Mustard Powder?
If you don’t have mustard powder on hand, you can use prepared mustard as a substitute. For this recipe, you’ll need about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of prepared mustard in place of 1 teaspoon of mustard powder.
8. Is It Necessary to Use Whole Milk, or Can I Use a Lower-Fat Milk Option?
While whole milk provides a rich, creamy texture, you can use lower-fat milk options like 2% or even skim milk if you prefer a lighter version. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different, but the casserole will still be delicious.
Conclusion
This breakfast casserole is the perfect make-ahead dish for busy mornings, special occasions, or weekend brunches. With a combination of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make. The best part is that you can prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday breakfast or just as a hearty meal for your family, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, comforting breakfast that everyone will love!