Craving a breakfast that’s both satisfying and a total crowd-pleaser? Look no further than a cheesy sausage breakfast casserole! This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. It’s packed with savory sausage, gooey cheese, and a creamy egg base – what’s not to love? Let’s dive into how to make this delicious casserole!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Cheesy sausage breakfast casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, and its versatility means you can easily customize it to your liking.
The Perfect Make-Ahead Meal
One of the biggest advantages of this casserole is that you can prepare it ahead of time. Assemble it the night before, and then just pop it in the oven in the morning. Talk about a time-saver! This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or when you’re hosting a brunch and want to minimize morning stress.
Versatile and Customizable
Don’t like sausage? Swap it for bacon or ham! Want to add more veggies? Throw in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless with this casserole. It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients and tailor the dish to your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
The combination of savory sausage, melted cheese, and creamy eggs is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as good the next day.
Ingredients for Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this breakfast favorite:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (Italian sausage also works well!)
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorites)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: diced onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and comforting cheesy sausage breakfast casserole:
- Cook the Sausage: Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Prepare the Bread: Cube the bread and spread it in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes. If using, add any diced vegetables.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Pour and Cheese: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread. Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit and makes it easier to slice.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Casserole
Want to take your cheesy sausage breakfast casserole to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks:
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture better than fresh bread. If you don’t have stale bread, you can dry it out in the oven for a few minutes.
- Soak Overnight: For an even more flavorful casserole, assemble it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
- Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack cheese will add a little heat, while Gruyere will give it a nutty flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry casserole. Keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven when the center is set and the cheese is golden brown.
- Add a Topping: For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle the casserole with some crispy fried onions or a breadcrumb topping before baking.
Conclusion
Cheesy sausage breakfast casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply want a comforting breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, you can create a unique casserole that suits your taste. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and enjoy a warm and satisfying cheesy sausage breakfast casserole! Happy cooking!
