If you are craving a warm, irresistible morning meal that truly hits all the comforting notes, this Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine layers of savory sausage mingling with melty cheese and fluffy eggs, all nestled atop hearty bread cubes or crispy hash browns. This casserole combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a satisfying dish that’s perfect for family breakfasts, brunches with friends, or meal-prepping for busy mornings. It’s easy to put together, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell like breakfast heaven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday ingredients, this recipe brings together taste and texture beautifully. Each component plays a crucial role—from the rich sausage to the creamy eggs and the golden melted cheese, everything blends into one delicious harmony.
- 1 pound sausage: Choose turkey for a leaner option or vegetarian sausage for a plant-based twist; it packs the savory punch.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella work best, lending gooey, melty goodness throughout.
- 6 large eggs: These bind everything together and add a fluffy, rich texture.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and helps create that perfect custard-like consistency.
- 4 cups bread cubes or hash browns: The base that soaks up all those flavors and provides delightful heft.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to enhance and balance all the ingredients.
- Optional: diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach): Add color, nutrition, and a fresh crunchy bite if you like.
How to Make Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Assemble the Base
Start by spreading your bread cubes or hash browns evenly at the bottom of your baking dish. This layer is the foundation that will soak up all those wonderful savory flavors and become wonderfully crispy or soft, depending on your choice.
Step 2: Add the Sausage and Cheese
Next, cook your sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through, then sprinkle it evenly over the bread or hash browns. Follow with a generous layer of shredded cheese—this is where the cheesy magic begins, creating comforting melty pockets throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. The egg mixture seeps down to bind everything beautifully and ensures a tender, custardy texture once baked.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover your dish tightly with foil to keep the moisture locked in and bake for around 30 minutes. This gentle cooking phase allows the eggs to begin setting and the flavors to meld without drying out the casserole.
Step 5: Finish Baking Uncovered
After those first 30 minutes, remove the foil to let the top turn golden brown and slightly crispy. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the casserole is fully set and the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly crisped.
How to Serve Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for a bright, fresh contrast that lifts the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce also pairs wonderfully for those who like a bit of zing.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside fresh fruit or a crisp green salad to introduce some lightness and balance the hearty flavors. A fresh fruit salad with berries and citrus or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
This casserole is gorgeous served straight from the baking dish to the table, but you can also make individual portions in muffin tins for cute, grab-and-go servings. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes showcases the colorful layers, making it a feast for the eyes before the first bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The casserole will keep its delicious flavor and texture, making it an effortless breakfast to reheat on busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or storing in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping meals ahead of time.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible, then warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through for the best texture. Microwave reheating works too for a quick fix, though the oven method preserves the casserole’s consistency better.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices for their meltiness and flavor, you can experiment with pepper jack for a bit of spice or gouda for a smoky twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well to keep the casserole creamy.
Is there a vegetarian option for the sausage?
Yes, vegetarian sausages work wonderfully in this recipe and will still provide the savory flavor and satisfying texture you want. You can also add extra vegetables to boost flavor and nutrition when using meat-free alternatives.
Can I prepare this the night before?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply bake it following the same instructions—it’s a fantastic way to save time and wake up to a ready-to-bake breakfast.
What can I use instead of bread cubes?
If you don’t have bread cubes handy, hash browns are a fantastic alternative that add a crispy, golden texture. You could also try cubed cooked potatoes or even cooked quinoa for a different twist.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when the eggs have fully set and the top is golden and slightly crispy. You can insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your casserole is perfectly cooked.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch, it’s one of those dishes that always brings smiles and satisfied appetites. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into a warm, cheesy bite of breakfast bliss—you won’t regret it!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole perfect for a family breakfast or brunch. This savory dish combines savory sausage, gooey melted cheese, eggs, milk, and your choice of bread or hash browns, baked to golden perfection with optional diced vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound sausage (turkey, or vegetarian)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Base
- 4 cups bread cubes or hash browns
Seasonings and Vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
Instructions
- Assemble the Casserole: Start by layering the bread cubes or hash browns evenly at the bottom of a greased baking dish. If using optional diced vegetables, sprinkle them over the bread layer for added flavor and nutrition.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Cook the sausage thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread or hash browns, then sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top.
- Pour Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the assembled layers in the baking dish, allowing the liquid to soak into the bread or hash browns.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning. Place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the casserole to cook through and the eggs to set gently.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step browns the cheese topping to a golden color and ensures the casserole is fully set and slightly crisp on top.
Notes
- You can substitute bread cubes with frozen hash browns for a different texture.
- Sausage options include turkey, pork, beef, or vegetarian varieties to suit your dietary preferences.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil during initial baking to keep the casserole moist.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if your sausage or cheese is already salted.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving for easier slicing.
