Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Introduction
Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of savory sausage and cheeses wafting through your home, inviting you to start your morning with love and warmth. There’s something truly magical about the ease and delight of an Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole that transforms a regular morning into a special occasion. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, it felt like a cozy hug on a busy morning—a delightful way to gather everyone around the breakfast table without the stress of last-minute cooking.
As the name suggests, this casserole marries eggs and sausage in a way that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. You can prepare it the night before, allowing you to savor the early morning hours as you sip your coffee and catch up with loved ones. In this recipe, I’ll take you through each comforting step, so you can share this indulgent treat with your family or keep it as your go-to cozy favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenience: Prep it the night before for a stress-free morning.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a hearty, warm breakfast dish that’s easy to serve.
- Bounty of Flavors: The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering bite every time.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients based on preferences or what’s in your pantry.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether for holiday brunches or casual Sundays, it feels festive and special.
Ingredients with Notes
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (try Italian or turkey for a leaner option)
- 8 large eggs (free-range for richer flavor)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess; swap for almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (adds an interesting tang)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or more for spice)
- 6 slices of bread (day-old is perfect; can use whole grain for a healthier twist)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mix it up with pepper jack or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (fresh or sautéed for a mellow flavor)
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus overnight refrigeration)
This cozy favorite may take an hour to bake, but the extra time is truly rewarding when you see smiles light up at the breakfast table.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned (about 5-7 minutes). You’ll know it’s ready when it’s deep golden and smells heavenly. Drain excess grease and set aside.
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Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. You’ll appreciate the vibrant colors blending seamlessly.
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Layer It Up: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and layer them evenly at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage on top.
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Add Cheese & Onions: Pour half of the egg mixture over the layered bread and sausage, then sprinkle with cheese and half of the green onions. Pour the rest of the egg mixture over everything, ensuring every bit is coated. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the eggs.
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Final Touches: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Letting it rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Bake: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and puffy. As it bakes, the gorgeous aroma will make its way through your home, making everyone eager for breakfast.
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Serve: Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Garnish with remaining green onions and serve warm. Enjoy the joy of a warm centerpiece on your breakfast table!
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swap: For a lighter version, you can use egg whites or low-fat milk. Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- Seasonal Twist: Try adding seasonal ingredients like diced tomatoes in summer or roasted pumpkin in fall.
- Flavor Upgrade: A pinch of smoked paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Cheese Choices: Use a mix of cheeses like feta or goat cheese for an indulgent, gourmet touch.
Serving Ideas
This Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole shines brightly on holidays like Mother’s Day or Christmas morning, serving as a comforting main dish. Pair it with fresh fruit, Greek yogurt, or a light salad for balance. For drinks, think coffee, mimosas, or a refreshing fruit-infused water for a burst of freshness. Picture the laughter and conversation that fills your home as everyone gathers for a delightful meal together.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through—this way, every bite retains its comforting glory. You can also freeze individual portions for a quick breakfast option later; just allow them to thaw overnight before reheating.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Resting Time: Letting the dish sit for those initial 5 minutes after baking helps it firm up, making it easier to slice.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil right before serving adds color and brightness.
- Syrup Drizzle: For a sweet-savory twist, drizzle some maple syrup over your slice—trust me, it’s divine!
FAQs
- Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Swap the sausage for sautéed veggies like zucchini or mushrooms and use a meat-free sausage alternative.
- What kind of bread works best? Stale or thick-sliced bread like brioche, sourdough, or a crusty baguette is ideal for absorbing the egg mixture.
- Can I make it dairy-free? Absolutely! Substitute regular milk and cheese with non-dairy versions.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Microwaving for a minute or two is great, but reheating in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes keeps the texture lovely.
Conclusion
Sharing a meal with loved ones has an unparalleled way of bringing joy and connection into our lives, and this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is a perfect centerpiece for those moments. I invite you to embrace the ease and love wrapped up in this recipe. Try it for yourself, weave it into your family’s traditions, and feel the warmth it brings to your mornings. I can almost guarantee that once you taste it, you’ll cherish it as deeply as I do. Enjoy every bite and the memories created around the table!
Contents
Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage Try Italian or turkey for a leaner option.
- 8 large eggs Free-range for richer flavor.
- 2 cups milk Whole or 2% for creaminess; swap for almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard Adds an interesting tang.
- 1/2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper Or more for spice.
- 6 slices bread Day-old is perfect; can use whole grain for a healthier twist.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Mix it up with pepper jack or mozzarella.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions Fresh or sautéed for a mellow flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and layer them evenly at the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage on top.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the layered bread and sausage, then sprinkle with cheese and half of the green onions. Pour the rest of the egg mixture over everything, ensuring every bit is coated. Gently press down with a spatula.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 45 minutes, or until the edges are golden and puffy.
- Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Garnish with remaining green onions and serve warm.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest