If you’re searching for a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big breakfast hug, this Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with savory sausage, gooey melted cheese, and tender bread or hash browns soaked in a rich egg custard, it’s the perfect dish to gather loved ones around the table. Every forkful delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that make mornings — or even anytime — truly special. Trust me, once you make this casserole, it’s going to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together effortlessly but each one plays a crucial role in making a cozy, hearty casserole that your whole family will adore. From the savory sausage to the creamy eggs and melty cheese, every component adds depth, richness, and color.
- 1 pound sausage (turkey or vegetarian): Choose your favorite to add protein and flavor; cooking it beforehand ensures it’s perfectly browned and tasty.
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice): This brings that irresistible gooey, melty factor that makes the casserole crave-worthy.
- 6 large eggs: The eggs tie everything together, creating a soft, custardy base that’s simply delicious.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and keeps the casserole tender and moist as it bakes.
- 4 cups bread cubes or hash browns: They soak up the egg mixture and provide a comforting texture, whether you prefer fluffy bread or crispy hash browns.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all the other flavors.
- Optional: diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach): These add freshness, color, and a little nutritional boost to brighten the dish.
How to Make Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Assemble the Base
Start by layering your bread cubes or hash browns evenly in the bottom of a greased casserole dish. This base soaks up the delicious egg mixture and ensures every bite has a soft, comforting texture. If you choose hash browns, they create a lovely crispy contrast after baking.
Step 2: Add the Sausage and Cheese
Cook your sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, then spread it evenly over the bread or hash browns. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. This combination guarantees a savory and cheesy punch in each bite that makes this casserole a standout.
Step 3: Pour the Egg Mixture
Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl until everything is blended smoothly. Pour this custard-like mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. This step is essential to bind the casserole and add rich creaminess.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover your casserole dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven. Baking covered allows the casserole to cook gently and evenly, letting the eggs set slowly without drying out. Bake for 30 minutes to set the base properly.
Step 5: Finish Baking Uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the eggs are fully set. This step adds a lovely crust and caramelized cheese flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh, bright touch, top your casserole with chopped green onions, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a dash of hot sauce. These add layers of flavor and a pop of color that make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair your cheesy breakfast sausage casserole with a light fruit salad or crispy bacon for a well-rounded meal. Some toasted English muffins or a side of roasted vegetables also complement the hearty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this casserole straight from the baking dish is always cozy, but for a rustic brunch vibe, cut it into squares and arrange on a wooden board with bowls of fresh berries and coffee. Or, for a crowd, bake in individual ramekins for personalized portions that look stunning on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it cools completely before covering to keep the texture just right.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. After assembling but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed for the center to cook through.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works too for a quick fix, but the oven method helps keep the cheesy top delightfully melty and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Whether you prefer turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian sausage, each choice will bring its own unique flavor to the casserole, making it easy to customize.
Is it possible to substitute the bread cubes with something else?
Yes, hash browns work beautifully as a substitute and add a different texture. You could also try frozen tater tots for a fun twist on the base.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Definitely. Assembling the casserole the night before and refrigerating it overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and it can be baked fresh in the morning.
What kind of cheese works best in this casserole?
Cheddar and mozzarella are classic, but feel free to mix in pepper jack for a kick or Swiss for a nuttier flavor. The cheese melts perfectly, giving that signature gooeyness.
How can I make the casserole vegetarian?
Simply swap out the sausage for your favorite vegetarian or plant-based sausage. You can also bulk it up with extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes to add heartiness and color.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe enough for anyone craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch. It’s straightforward to prepare but delivers rich, layered flavors and satisfying textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to comforting dishes!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 to 8
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious Cheesy Breakfast Sausage Casserole featuring savory sausage, melted cheese, eggs, and your choice of bread cubes or hash browns. Perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch, this casserole is easy to assemble and bake, with optional vegetables to add extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound sausage (turkey or vegetarian)
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
Starches
- 4 cups bread cubes or hash browns
Seasonings and Optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
Instructions
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the bread cubes or hash browns evenly at the bottom of a greased casserole dish to form the base.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread or hash browns, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sausage layer.
- Mix and Pour Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes to allow the casserole to set.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is fully cooked and set.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for vegetarian sausage to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Adding diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can boost nutrition and flavor.
- Using hash browns instead of bread cubes results in a crispier texture on the bottom layer.
- Covering the casserole during the first part of baking helps keep it moist and allows the eggs to cook evenly.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for convenience.
