A warm, savory slice of biscuits and gravy casserole is everything a comforting breakfast should be—rich, hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This casserole takes the Southern classic of biscuits smothered in sausage gravy and transforms it into a baked morning masterpiece layered with fluffy scrambled eggs and melted cheddar cheese. It’s ideal for lazy weekend mornings, potluck brunches, or even as a “breakfast-for-dinner” favorite.
This version is streamlined for home cooks, combining simple ingredients with familiar flavors, and can be made ahead for even more convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 lb ground breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk or half-and-half
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Casserole Base:
- 8 to 10 refrigerated biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra if desired for topping)
Making the Sausage Gravy
Browning the Sausage
Start by cooking the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles with a spoon or spatula and continue cooking until browned and fully cooked through. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Keep about 2 tablespoons of the sausage drippings in the pan for extra flavor.
Building the Roux
In the same skillet with the sausage drippings, add the butter and melt it over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to form a roux. Keep stirring constantly for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the roux takes on a light golden color. This step helps thicken the gravy and ensures it doesn’t taste like raw flour.
Making the Gravy
Slowly pour in the milk or half-and-half while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture thickens to a classic gravy consistency. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Set the finished sausage gravy aside to cool slightly.
Assembling the Breakfast Casserole
Preparing the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Arranging the Biscuits
Cut the biscuits into quarters or smaller bite-sized pieces. Spread them evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. These biscuit chunks will puff up as they bake, forming the base of the casserole and soaking in all the delicious flavors from the eggs and gravy.
Whisking the Eggs
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the heavy cream or milk. Season with salt and pepper. Pour this egg mixture over the biscuit pieces, making sure every piece is touched by the eggs. This ensures even cooking and a creamy, cohesive base.
Adding Gravy and Cheese
Spoon the prepared sausage gravy evenly over the top of the biscuit and egg layer. Use the back of the spoon to spread it gently and ensure full coverage. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. For cheese lovers, add an extra ½ cup over the surface for more melty goodness.
Baking the Casserole
In the Oven
Place the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling, the center is fully set (not jiggly), and the top has turned golden brown.
Optional Broil for Crisp Top
If you like your casserole top extra golden and slightly crisp, switch the oven to broil during the last 2 to 3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully—broiling can turn from golden to burnt very quickly.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal in itself, but you can pair it with:
- A light fruit salad for contrast
- A drizzle of hot sauce or country-style gravy
- A simple green salad if serving as brunch or dinner
For gatherings, it’s great alongside coffee, juice, or even a Bloody Mary bar.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking as instructed.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in foil and placed in freezer bags. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Use a flavorful sausage: If you like heat, try spicy breakfast sausage. For a milder taste, stick with classic pork sausage.
- Add extra flavor: Sauté diced onions or green peppers with the sausage for added texture and taste.
- Don’t overbake: Overbaking will dry out the eggs. Look for a firm center with no jiggling and pull it out promptly.
- Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes to allow everything to set, making it easier to slice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade biscuits instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just make sure to par-bake or partially cook them if they’re extra thick, as raw dough may stay undercooked in a casserole without pre-baking.
Can I use pre-made sausage gravy?
Yes, you can substitute store-bought sausage gravy if you’re short on time. However, making it from scratch adds better flavor and richness.
What other cheeses work well in this casserole?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can also try Monterey Jack, pepper jack for heat, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for gooey texture.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of drippings for the roux. The result is still flavorful and satisfying.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
The edges will be bubbly, the top golden brown, and the center should be set (not wet or jiggly). A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean.
Is this good for meal prep?
It’s excellent for meal prep. Bake it once, slice it into squares, and store in containers for quick breakfasts all week long.
Conclusion
This biscuits and gravy with sausage and egg breakfast casserole is everything a comfort dish should be—rich, savory, cheesy, and satisfying. With layers of creamy sausage gravy, fluffy eggs, and golden biscuits, it’s a brunch-worthy bake that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Make it for your next holiday morning, weekend brunch, or weekday meal prep and enjoy the kind of breakfast that brings people to the table and keeps them coming back for seconds.