Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This hearty Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast, ideal for weekend brunches or make-ahead holiday mornings. With its savory layers of golden bread, rich sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese all baked into a fluffy egg custard, it’s sure to please a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-ahead convenience: Prep it the night before and bake in the morning.
• Family-friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Swap bread types or spice up the sausage to fit your tastes.
• Simple ingredients: No hard-to-find items—everything is pantry- or fridge-ready.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork sausage, crumbled and cooked
• 8 slices white bread, cut into cubes
• 1 1⁄2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 10 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (do not use nonfat or lowfat)
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pepper (to taste)

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Bread
   Cut the white bread into cubes and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.
3. Add Sausage and Cheese
   Brown the pork sausage in a skillet until fully cooked and crumbly. Drain any excess grease.
   Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Then sprinkle the grated sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage.
4. Mix the Egg Custard
   In a large mixing bowl, crack and beat the eggs. Add the milk, dry mustard, and salt. Whisk until fully combined and smooth. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Soak
   Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Ensure all bread is moistened by the egg mixture.
6. Let Sit (Optional)
   For best results, cover the dish and refrigerate overnight. This helps the bread absorb the custard and bake more evenly. (Optional but recommended.)
7. Bake the Casserole
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Bake the casserole uncovered for about 50 minutes, or until the top is puffed, lightly golden, and the center is fully set.
8. Serve
   Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Bread: Use slightly stale bread for better texture.
• Cheese: Add a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a gooier melt.
• Spice: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
• Overnight Tip: Letting it rest overnight makes for a fluffier and more cohesive casserole.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fruit salad or fresh berries.
• Serve alongside hash browns or crispy bacon.
• A glass of orange juice or a mimosa complements it perfectly.

Storage / Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a metal or ceramic dish instead of glass?
Yes, just adjust baking time slightly. Glass holds heat longer, so metal may cook a bit faster.

Does the sausage need to be fully cooked before baking?
Yes. Always brown and drain sausage before layering in the dish.

Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?
No, but doing so enhances texture and flavor. It can also be baked immediately after assembly.

Conclusion

This Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for gatherings, holidays, or slow weekend mornings. Its delicious layers, easy preparation, and make-ahead option make it a must-try breakfast classic.

Print