Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of a delicious *overnight breakfast casserole* wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug on a busy morning! This hearty dish is not just convenient, but it’s also packed with flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or just a cozy brunch with family. You prepare it the night before, letting the flavors meld together while you sleep, and all you have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven. Trust me, your friends and family will be raving about it long after the last bite. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can customize it to suit everyone’s tastes! So, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a hearty start to your day, this casserole has got you covered!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this scrumptious *overnight breakfast casserole*! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed (any kind you love will do!)
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (feel free to use your favorite brand)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice!)
- 6 large eggs (the fresher, the better!)
- 2 cups of milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (this brings out all the flavors)
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder (adds a subtle sweetness and depth)
Make sure you have everything ready before you start, and you’ll be well on your way to breakfast bliss!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s dive into how to whip up this amazing *overnight breakfast casserole*! I promise, it’s super simple and totally foolproof. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be golden!
- First things first, grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This is where all the magic will happen! Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Don’t worry about it being perfect; it’s all gonna meld together beautifully.
- Next, spread the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the bread. Make sure it’s evenly distributed, so every bite has that savory goodness.
- Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Ooey-gooey cheese is a must, right?
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture is where all the flavors come together! Just whisk until it’s nice and smooth.
- Pour this egg mixture over the layers in your baking dish, making sure it evenly covers everything. Give it a gentle push with a spoon if needed to soak into the bread.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This is where the flavors really meld, and the bread absorbs all that deliciousness!
- When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and pop the casserole into the oven.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. Wow, the smell will be incredible!
And just like that, you’ve made a breakfast masterpiece! Can’t wait for you to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: Seriously, it doesn’t get simpler than this! Just layer, mix, and pop it in the fridge. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
- Perfect for feeding a crowd: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a lazy Sunday with friends, this casserole serves a good number of people without much fuss. Everyone will leave happy and full!
- Great for busy mornings: I mean, who doesn’t need a little extra time in the morning? Prepare it the night before, and all you have to do is bake it in the morning—no scrambling!
- Can be customized: Want to switch things up? Go ahead! You can add veggies, change the meat, or swap the cheese—make it your own! The possibilities are endless!
- Delicious and satisfying: Trust me on this one—the combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more. It’s hearty, savory, and downright comforting!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *overnight breakfast casserole* turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, use stale or day-old bread; it soaks up the egg mixture better and adds a lovely texture. If you’re not a sausage fan, bacon or even sautéed veggies like bell peppers and spinach work beautifully as substitutes. Just remember to cook them beforehand!
When mixing your egg and milk mixture, whisk until it’s just combined—overmixing can lead to a tough texture. And don’t skip the overnight refrigeration! This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. Finally, keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes; every oven is different, and you want that glorious golden top without overcooking. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Variations
One of the best parts about this *overnight breakfast casserole* is how easy it is to make it your own! If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the breakfast sausage for crispy bacon or even ham for a different flavor profile. You can also go meatless by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms—these not only add color but also a nutritious boost!
Feeling cheesy? Experiment with different types of cheese—think pepper jack for a spicy kick, or feta for a tangy twist. You might even mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra layer of freshness. Don’t be afraid to get creative; the possibilities are endless, and every variation can turn your casserole into a delightful surprise! Just remember to have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious *overnight breakfast casserole*, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep that flavor intact! Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have a big batch, you can also freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is a breeze! For refrigerated leftovers, just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge and then follow the same reheating instructions. This way, you’ll savor every bit of that yummy goodness just like the first time!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional info for this scrumptious *overnight breakfast casserole*! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Typically, a serving (which is about one slice) contains around 300 calories. You’ll find about 20 grams of fat, including 8 grams of saturated fat, and 15 grams of protein to keep you fueled for the day. It also has approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of sugar. Plus, it’s a great source of comfort without sacrificing too much on the nutrition front. Enjoy every delicious bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this *overnight breakfast casserole*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up:
Can I make this casserole without meat?
Absolutely! You can easily make a delicious vegetarian version by loading it up with your favorite veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Just sauté them beforehand for extra flavor!
How long does it need to bake?
Typically, you’ll want to bake it for about 45-50 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Can I prepare it the same day instead of overnight?
While the overnight soak is key for flavor, you can prepare it the same day. Just let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking, so the bread has time to absorb the egg mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for about 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
What should I serve with it?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy your brunch!
Overnight Breakfast Casserole: 5 Comforting Flavors Unleashed
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty overnight breakfast casserole that is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
Instructions
- In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Notes
- You can substitute the sausage with bacon or vegetables for a different flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: overnight breakfast casserole, breakfast casserole, easy breakfast, make ahead breakfast
