Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

Looking for a delicious and satisfying breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd? A breakfast sausage casserole is the answer! This dish combines savory sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread into a warm, comforting casserole that’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want to start your day with a hearty meal. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a breakfast sausage casserole that will become a favorite in your household. Read on to discover how to make this delightful dish!

What is Breakfast Sausage Casserole?

Breakfast sausage casserole is a baked dish that combines breakfast staples like sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread into a single, flavorful meal. The ingredients are layered and baked until golden and bubbly, resulting in a dish that’s rich, savory, and satisfying. This casserole can be made ahead of time and baked fresh in the morning, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or special occasions.

Ingredients List for Breakfast Sausage Casserole

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

1. Main Ingredients:
   • 1 pound breakfast sausage
   • 6 large eggs
   • 2 cups milk
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
   • 1 teaspoon dry mustard (optional)
   • ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
   • 6 cups cubed day-old bread (about 8 slices)
   • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2. Additional Ingredients (optional):
   • ½ cup chopped bell peppers
   • ½ cup chopped onions
   • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
   • ½ cup chopped spinach
   • ¼ cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives)

Substitutions and Variations

This breakfast sausage casserole recipe is highly adaptable. Here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or omit the bread and add more vegetables and cheese.
• Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your breakfast sausage casserole:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
   • Remove the sausage from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Prepare the Vegetables (if using):
   • In the same skillet, sauté the bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms until softened.
   • Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and onion powder.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Layer the cubed bread in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables evenly over the bread.
   • Pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure it covers all the bread and sausage.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
   • A knife inserted into the center should come out clean when the casserole is done.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Cook Breakfast Sausage Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a breakfast sausage casserole is straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Day-Old Bread:
   • Day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
2. Season Well:
   • Be sure to season the egg mixture well with salt, pepper, and any additional spices to enhance the overall flavor.
3. Ensure Even Layering:
   • Spread the sausage, vegetables, and cheese evenly to ensure each bite is balanced and flavorful.
4. Don’t Overbake:
   • Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to avoid overcooking, which can result in a dry texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your breakfast sausage casserole is a success:

• Skipping the Drain: Always drain the cooked sausage to remove excess grease, preventing a greasy casserole.
• Underseasoning: Properly season each layer of the casserole to ensure it’s flavorful throughout.
• Overloading with Ingredients: While tempting, overloading the casserole with too many add-ins can affect its texture and cooking time.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Make your breakfast sausage casserole look as good as it tastes with these serving and presentation tips:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
  • Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Serve with Sides:
  • Pair the casserole with fresh fruit, a side salad, or toast for a well-rounded meal.
• Individual Portions:
  • Cut the casserole into individual squares and serve on plates for a neat presentation.

How to Serve Breakfast Sausage Casserole

Serving breakfast sausage casserole can be as simple or as elegant as you like:

• Family Style:
  • Serve the casserole in the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• Buffet Style:
  • Slice the casserole into squares and arrange on a platter for a buffet-style breakfast or brunch.
• On the Go:
  • Slice and wrap individual portions for a convenient, portable breakfast option.

Presentation Ideas for Breakfast Sausage Casserole

Elevate the visual appeal of your casserole with these presentation ideas:

• Layered Garnish:
  • Layer thin slices of avocado or tomato on top before serving for added color and texture.
• Baked in Individual Ramekins:
  • For a more elegant presentation, bake the casserole mixture in individual ramekins or small baking dishes.
• Festive Touches:
  • Add festive touches like a sprinkle of paprika or a few sprigs of fresh herbs on top for special occasions.

Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your breakfast sausage casserole turns out perfectly:

• Make-Ahead:
  • Prepare the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed.
• Storage:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a low oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: What type of bread works best? A: Sturdy bread like French bread, Italian bread, or even a baguette works best for this casserole.

Q: How do I know when the casserole is done? A: The casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

Q: Can I add more vegetables? A: Yes, feel free to add more vegetables to suit your taste. Just be mindful not to overload the casserole.

Conclusion

A breakfast sausage casserole is a fantastic way to start your day with a hearty and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a convenient breakfast option, this recipe is sure to please. Try making this delicious breakfast sausage casserole today and enjoy a warm, comforting dish that everyone will love!

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