Name: Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 lb sausage (crumbled); 8 slices French bread (cut into cubes); 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (divided); 2 cups milk; 8 large eggs; 1 cup refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper

There’s something truly magical about a breakfast casserole that can bring a family together, especially during those lazy weekend mornings. The Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, all baked together in a comforting, hearty layer. It’s the perfect option for brunch gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply a cozy start to your day. Whether served with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of hot sauce, this casserole is sure to impress!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole is not just easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile and can be customized to fit your family’s tastes. With its crowd-pleasing flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a dish that you’ll turn to again and again. It’s also great for meal prepping; make it ahead, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that can be served directly from the oven to the table?

The Ingredient Lineup

To create this delectable breakfast casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb sausage – Use your favorite breakfast sausage, crumbled.
8 (1-inch) slices French bread – Cut into cubes for a great base.
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese – Adds richness and flavor.
2 cups milk – For creaminess and to bind the ingredients.
8 large eggs – The foundation of the casserole.
1 cup refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip – A unique twist for added flavor.
1 tsp salt – To enhance the flavors.
1/2 tsp pepper – For a little kick.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the following kitchen tools at your disposal:

Large mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
9×13 inch baking dish – Ideal size for baking the casserole.
Whisk – To mix the eggs and other ingredients smoothly.
Skillet – For browning the sausage before mixing.
Spatula – To help combine and spread the mixture evenly.

Mastering Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole: How-To

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delightful breakfast casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it’s hot and ready for your casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed French bread with the cooked sausage. Toss them together gently to mix.

Step 4: Mix the Egg Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream French onion dip, salt, and pepper until fully combined. This mixture will create a creamy consistency that binds everything together.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage mixture. Add in 1.5 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese and stir gently until all the bread cubes are well-coated.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cups of Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a delicious, cheesy crust.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole is perfect for any season. Here are some ideas for variations and additions throughout the year:

Add fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a summer twist.
Incorporate seasonal herbs such as chives or parsley for a fresh flavor.
In the fall, consider adding cooked pumpkin or butternut squash for a seasonal touch.
Top with avocado slices or salsa for a refreshing springtime brunch.

Mistakes That Ruin Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole

Creating the perfect Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Not letting the casserole sit before baking, which may result in uneven cooking.
Using stale bread instead of fresh, which can affect the texture.
Overbaking, which can lead to a dry casserole.
Skipping the browning of the sausage, which can lead to bland flavors.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This casserole is not only delicious but also ideal for make-ahead meals. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it:

Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Reheat: To reheat, simply bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes for refrigerated leftovers and 30-40 minutes for frozen.

Quick Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. Just be sure to let it sit for a few minutes before baking if it’s been refrigerated.

Can I substitute the sausage?

Yes! Feel free to use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for added flavor.

Can I add other ingredients?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your casserole with vegetables, different cheeses, or even spices to suit your taste preferences.

Similar Recipes

If you love this Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

See You at the Table

Now that you’ve mastered the art of the Sausage Egg Breakfast Casserole, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy this hearty dish together. The warmth and comfort it brings will surely create lasting memories and delicious smiles. So, grab your fork and dig in!