Let me tell you about my absolute favorite breakfast dish—the savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly mornings or when you have a crowd to feed! Imagine waking up to the smell of savory sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs wafting through the house. Wow! This dish is hearty and satisfying, with layers of flavor that will definitely get your day off to a great start. I remember the first time I made it for a weekend brunch with friends; everyone went back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). It’s so easy to prepare ahead of time, which means less stress in the morning. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this recipe in your back pocket for all those special occasions or just when you need a little extra comfort in your life.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
How to Prepare Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking, so don’t skip it! I always find that starting with a hot oven helps the casserole rise beautifully and get that golden brown finish we all love. While it’s warming up, you can gather the rest of your ingredients and enjoy the anticipation of what’s to come!
Cook the Breakfast Sausage
Now, grab a skillet and cook that breakfast sausage over medium heat. You want to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks, making sure it’s browned and delicious—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and don’t forget to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly. The aroma will be heavenly, and trust me, it’s a sign that you’re on the right track!
Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together those six large eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. I love using a big bowl here; it makes mixing everything else later so much easier! Keep whisking until it’s all well combined—this is the base of your casserole, and it should be smooth and inviting.
Combine Ingredients
Time to bring everything together! Add the cooked sausage, cubed bread, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything in until it’s evenly distributed. You want to make sure every bite has that savory flavor and cheesy goodness. Yum!
Pour and Bake
Pour the glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so it bakes perfectly. Now, pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the middle and has that lovely golden brown color on top. Oh, the anticipation of digging in will be real!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time means you can whip this up in just 15 minutes!
- Hearty flavors from the savory sausage and gooey cheese make each bite incredibly satisfying.
- Perfect for gatherings—everyone will ask for the recipe after just one bite!
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or different types of cheese for a personal twist.
- Great for meal prep; just make it ahead and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Tips for Success
To really nail this savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole, I’ve got some pro tips that’ll help ensure it turns out perfectly every time! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference.
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and good-quality sausage for the best flavor. It really elevates the dish!
- Stale Bread is Best: If you can, use slightly stale bread for the cubes. It soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without getting too mushy!
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to cut and helps everything set nicely.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to swap out the cheddar for your favorite cheese or throw in some bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep the ratios similar!
- Check for Doneness: If you’re unsure whether it’s done, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a casserole pro in no time! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Now, I always think it’s good to be aware of what we’re putting into our bodies, especially when it comes to a delicious dish like this savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole! Here’s a general idea of the nutritional breakdown:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, it’s always a good idea to check the labels if you’re keeping a close eye on nutrition. Enjoy your casserole guilt-free, knowing you’re treating yourself to something hearty and satisfying!
FAQ Section
Can I make this savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
If you want to mix things up or cater to different dietary needs, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a meatless sausage alternative. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing it into the casserole!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then slice it into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What kind of bread works best for this recipe?
I love using a hearty bread like sourdough or French bread, but you can really use any kind you have on hand. Just make sure it’s not too soft, as stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming mushy.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up, set in the middle, and has that beautiful golden brown color on top. If you insert a toothpick into the center and it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Enjoy your savory breakfast casserole!
For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out this collection of breakfast recipes!
And if you’re looking for a delightful drink to pair with your meal, consider making spiced apple cider!
Print
Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Delight
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty casserole combining savory breakfast sausage and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage, bread cubes, cheese, and green onions to the egg mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set and golden brown.
Notes
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and baked in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole
