Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is the kind of breakfast that fills the kitchen with comforting aromas before the coffee is even poured. Savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese bake together into a warm, satisfying dish that slices neatly and serves a crowd with ease. It’s rich without feeling overwhelming and simple enough for busy mornings.
This casserole combines familiar breakfast flavors into one cohesive bake. The eggs set into a soft, custardy base, while the sausage adds savory depth and texture. A generous layer of cheese melts throughout, creating creamy pockets in every bite.
Whether prepared for a weekend brunch, holiday gathering, or meal prep for the week ahead, Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole offers dependable flavor and minimal effort. It’s hearty, filling, and wonderfully practical.
Ingredients Overview
Each ingredient in Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole plays a specific role in flavor and structure.
Breakfast sausage forms the savory backbone of the dish. Pork sausage delivers classic richness, while turkey sausage offers a lighter option. Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference.
Eggs are the foundation. They bind everything together and create the soft, fluffy texture once baked. Using large eggs ensures proper structure and even setting.
Milk or half-and-half adds creaminess and helps create a tender custard. Whole milk provides balance, while half-and-half produces a slightly richer result.
Shredded cheese melts into the egg mixture, adding both flavor and texture. Cheddar is a popular choice for its sharpness and smooth melting, but Monterey Jack or Colby also work beautifully.
Bread cubes give the casserole body and absorb the egg mixture. Day-old bread is ideal because it holds structure without becoming mushy. White bread, sourdough, or even brioche can be used.
Salt and black pepper season the eggs, while a pinch of garlic powder or dried mustard can add subtle depth without overpowering the classic flavor.
Optional additions like diced bell peppers or green onions introduce color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
Spread 4 cups of cubed day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if using. Whisk until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Add 2 cups of shredded cheese on top of the sausage layer.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese. Gently press down with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This resting time helps the bread soak up the egg mixture for an even texture.
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted comes out clean. The top should be lightly golden and slightly puffed.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows it to firm up and makes serving easier.
Common mistakes include skipping the resting period before baking or underbaking, which can leave the center too soft. The casserole should feel set but still tender.
Tips, Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetable-packed version, sauté diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach before adding them to the dish. Removing excess moisture from vegetables prevents a watery texture.
Swap the sausage for cooked bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile.
If you prefer a low-carb option, omit the bread and reduce the milk slightly. The result will be more like a crustless quiche.
For extra richness, replace one cup of milk with heavy cream.
To prepare ahead, assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking.
Serving Ideas & Occasions
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, sliced avocado, or a simple green salad for balance.
It works well for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or meal prepping for busy weekdays. The slices reheat easily, making it convenient for quick mornings.
Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions or a light sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color.
Nutritional & Health Notes
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole provides protein from both sausage and eggs, making it a filling breakfast option. Cheese adds calcium, while milk contributes additional protein and nutrients.
Choosing turkey sausage and reduced-fat cheese can lower overall fat content. Adding vegetables increases fiber and micronutrients.
Portion size plays an important role in maintaining balance, especially when serving alongside other brunch dishes.
With thoughtful ingredient choices, this casserole can fit comfortably into a varied eating pattern.
FAQs
1. Can I make Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. Bake and cool completely before slicing and freezing portions. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
3. How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly. A knife inserted into the middle should come out clean.
4. Can I use different types of bread?
Yes. Sourdough, French bread, or brioche all work well. Avoid very soft sandwich bread, which may become too soggy.
5. What cheese melts best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby melt smoothly and provide balanced flavor.
6. Can I add potatoes?
Yes. Parboiled diced potatoes can be layered with the bread for added texture.
7. How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently before serving.
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Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole: 5 Hearty Morning Layers
Description
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty breakfast bake made with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and bread cubes for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients
1 pound breakfast sausage
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
4 cups cubed day-old bread
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook sausage in a skillet until browned. Drain excess grease.
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Spread bread cubes evenly in baking dish.
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Sprinkle sausage and cheese over bread.
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Whisk eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Pour egg mixture over ingredients and press gently.
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Let sit 10 minutes, then bake 40 to 45 minutes until set.
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Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture. Let casserole rest before baking and after removing from oven.
