Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole: A Cozy Morning Treat
Imagine a chilly Sunday morning, the kind where the only thing that feels better than snuggling under a warm blanket is the inviting aroma of breakfast wafting through your home. As you groggily awaken, the delightful scent of savory sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs dances around your senses, coaxing you out of bed. That’s the magic of the Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole—my go-to recipe that transforms any ordinary morning into a special occasion, with minimal effort!
Why Make This Recipe
This Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is the culinary hug you didn’t know you needed. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal rotation:
- Quick Prep: With just 15-20 minutes of actual work, you can enjoy a meal that practically cooks itself while you sleep!
- Cozy Flavors: Packed with comforting ingredients, every bite is a perfect blend of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and rich cheese.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish feeds a crowd, making it perfect for brunch gatherings and family breakfasts.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with veggies, different types of cheese, or even swap out the sausage for your favorite proteins!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning—perfect for busy days and festive cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: A savory base; feel free to use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- 8 large eggs: The heart of the casserole—go for organic for added richness.
- 2 cups milk: Whole milk creates a creamier texture; 2% or plant-based alternatives work too!
- 1 teaspoon salt: A simple yet essential seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: For that little kick of flavor.
- 3 cups cubed bread: Use day-old bread for the best texture—ciabatta or sourdough are excellent choices!
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Swiss.
- Optional veggies (like bell peppers, onions, or spinach): Add more nutrition and flavor, or keep it simple!
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook time: 50-60 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes (with overnight resting)
This recipe is perfect for those moments when comfort food is the highlight, without keeping you tied to the kitchen all morning!
How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and any optional veggies you’d like to include.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all the bread gets soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 50-60 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the beautiful moment of digging into this warm, cheesy goodness!
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Some Spice: Mix in diced jalapeños or spicy sausage to crank up the heat!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
- Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses—feta adds a lovely tang, while mozzarella lends an Italian touch.
Serving Ideas
Pair your Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole with fresh fruit salad or fluffy biscuits for a complete brunch experience. Serve it alongside freshly brewed coffee or a mimosa for a festive occasion, making your gathering even more memorable. Picture everyone gathered around the table, laughter filling the air, each bite showcasing the warmth and love of a homemade touch.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers need loving care! Store any unused casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have more than you can devour in that time, it freezes beautifully! Just wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Pro Tips for Success
- Day-old Bread is Key: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture beautifully—fresh bread might turn soggy.
- Customize the Night Before: Prep everything the night before, so you only need to bake it in the morning!
- Add Seasoning: Don’t forget to taste your mixture before cooking. A little more salt or a splash of hot sauce can elevate flavors dramatically.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, indeed! Just wrap portions well and freeze for future cozy breakfasts.
- What’s the best substitute for milk? You can use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternatives you prefer.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! Swap out sausage for roasted veggies or a plant-based sausage.
Conclusion
As you gather around the table with family and friends, sharing stories and laughter, remember that the heart of this moment is the food that brings you together. The Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly morning, a celebration of flavors, and a cuddly memory that you’ll cherish. So go ahead, make this dish, share it with your loved ones, and savor the joy it brings!
Contents
Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage Feel free to use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- 8 large eggs Go for organic for added richness.
- 2 cups milk Whole milk creates a creamier texture; 2% or plant-based alternatives work too!
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon pepper For flavor.
- 3 cups cubed bread Use day-old bread for best texture—ciabatta or sourdough recommended.
- 2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar is classic; feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or Swiss.
Optional Ingredients
- optional veggies (like bell peppers, onions, or spinach) Add for nutrition and flavor or keep it simple!
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and any optional veggies you'd like to include.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all the bread gets soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to let the flavors meld.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 50-60 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.
📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest