Hey there, kitchen enthusiasts! If you’re in the mood for a hearty and simple breakfast or brunch, let me introduce you to my favorite sausage and egg casserole. This dish has saved me countless times during busy mornings when I need to feed the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen. You know those mornings, right? When you’re trying to get the kids ready and make sure everyone actually eats? Yep, this casserole is my little secret weapon.
Not only is it incredibly easy to throw together, but it’s also versatile enough to adjust to whatever you’ve got on hand. And trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Surprisingly, this is the kind of dish you wouldn’t mind eating for dinner either. For another cozy casserole idea, check out my sausage hashbrown breakfast casserole.
Why you’ll love this recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this recipe, and I’m going to let you in on a few:
- Convenience: Whether it’s a weekend family breakfast or an impressive brunch, this recipe fits the bill.
- Customization: You can throw in whatever extra veggies or cheese you have, making it work for picky eaters.
- Make-Ahead: Prepping in advance is a lifesaver on busy days.
- Flavorful, yet simple: With staple ingredients and spices, you’ll get a tasty casserole that’s not complicated.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound sausage (breakfast, Italian, or spicy)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese blend)
- 2 cups bread cubes (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- ½ cup chopped spinach (optional)
- ¼ cup diced onions (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
Preparing the dish
- Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or 8×11-inch) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. - Cooking the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, brown your sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Once it’s nicely browned, drain any excess grease and set it aside. - Mixing the Eggs
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined. - Layering the Casserole
In the greased baking dish, start by layering the cooked sausage, followed by any vegetables you’re using, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese. Top everything with the optional bread cubes if you choose to add them. Finally, pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
Baking the casserole
- Baking Time
Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven. Bake it for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. - Cooling and Serving
Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Recipe tips & variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or more veggies to make a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Choices: Try using mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Bread Options: If you have leftover rolls or baguette, they work perfectly as the bread layer.
Storage & reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, lucky you! This casserole stores wonderfully.
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices for a quick reheat.
FAQs
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for best results.
Can I substitute the sausage?
Absolutely, feel free to use turkey sausage or even skip it for a vegetarian option.
What size baking dish should I use?
A 7×11-inch or 8×11-inch dish works best, allowing for even cooking.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should be set and not jiggly, and the top should be lightly golden. A skewer inserted should come out clean.
Recipes you may like
If you’re eager for more breakfast inspiration, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:
Sausage and Egg Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and simple sausage and egg casserole that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage (breakfast, Italian, or spicy)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese blend)
- 2 cups bread cubes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or 8×11-inch) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown your sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Once it’s nicely browned, drain any excess grease and set it aside.
- Grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- In the greased baking dish, start by layering the cooked sausage, followed by any vegetables you’re using, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese. Top everything with the optional bread cubes if you choose to add them. Finally, pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
- Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven. Bake it for 30-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is a lovely golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the sausage for sautéed mushrooms or more veggies to make a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Choices: Try using mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Bread Options: If you have leftover rolls or baguette, they work perfectly as the bread layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 350mg