Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole: A Warm, Comforting Family Favorite

There’s something truly magical about waking up to the tantalizing aroma of an Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole wafting through your home. Picture this: sunlight peeking through the curtains, the family gathered around the kitchen table, and the first bite of warm, cheesy goodness melting in your mouth. It’s these cherished moments that turn simple breakfasts into treasured memories. Allow me to share with you how this comforting recipe can become a beloved part of your family traditions.

Why Make This Recipe

The joy of an Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole goes beyond its mouthwatering taste. Here are a few reasons why it deserves a spot in your recipe lineup:

• Quick Prep: Just assemble it the night before, and let the flavors meld while you sleep!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish delights all ages—perfect for brunch with friends or a holiday gathering.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever you have on hand! Swap in different cheeses, veggies, or meats.
• Comforting Flavors: The savory sausage paired with fluffy eggs and melted cheese creates a hug in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Goodness: Ideal for busy mornings, this hearty casserole ensures you start your day on a delicious note.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• Eggs (10 large): The heart of the dish, providing protein and a fluffy texture.
• Sausage (1 pound, breakfast variety): For a savory kick, choose spicy or mild based on your taste.
• Bread (6-8 slices, day-old is best): Cubed into bite-sized pieces, it creates that perfect custardy base.
• Milk (2 cups): Whole milk works wonders, but skim or even non-dairy milk can be used if needed.
• Cheddar cheese (2 cups, shredded): Because what’s a breakfast casserole without a cheesy layer?
• Bell peppers (1 cup, diced): Add some color and crunch. Feel free to swap for spinach or mushrooms!
• Onion (1 small, diced): A great aromatic addition for depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, simply enhance those delicious flavors!

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Note: Worth the patience—let it sit overnight for the best flavor.

How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crispy. As the sausage sizzles, the mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen and draw everyone in.
2. Saute the Veggies: Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes. The combination of savory sausage and sweet onions is irresistible!
3. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked sausage mixture and half of the cheese. Pour this delightful mixture over the cubed bread.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. The more, the merrier!
6. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight. This soak time allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture perfectly.
7. Bake: In the morning, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the cover and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips and Creative Variations

• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.
• Herbaceous Flair: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives or parsley into the egg mixture.
• Meat-Free Option: Substitute sausage with crumbled tofu or veggie sausage for a vegetarian version.
• Holiday Touch: Incorporate cranberries or pecans during festive seasons for a unique flair.

Serving Ideas

Picture this warm casserole as the centerpiece of your breakfast table. Pair it with crispy hash browns, fresh fruit, or a vibrant avocado salad. A steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing mimosa makes this meal feel extra special—imagine laughter bubbling around the table, stories swapping back and forth, all while enjoying a slice of this delightful dish.

Storing and Reheating

This casserole is perfect for leftovers! Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: You can also freeze individual portions for up to three months—perfect for a simple dinner on a busy night.
• Reheat: Simply pop it in the microwave for a quick warm-up or place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through for that fresh-baked taste.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Day-Old Bread: It absorbs the egg mixture better. If it’s too fresh, the bread may turn mushy.
2. Customize Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella adds layers of flavor and gooeyness.
3. Egg Substitutes: If you’re out of eggs, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent—perfect for a plant-based version.
4. Sauté Early: Cooking the sausage and veggies the night before can deepen flavors and save time in the morning.

FAQs

• Can I freeze this recipe? Absolutely! It’s perfect for freezing. Just cut into portions and store in airtight containers.
• What’s the best substitute for breakfast sausage? Ground turkey or chicken sausage works great, or you can use crumbled tofu with spices for a vegetarian option.
• Can I add other vegetables? Definitely! Carrots, zucchini, or even kale can be delicious additions. Get creative!

Conclusion

Your family will thank you for the indulgent flavors and hassle-free preparation of this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole. It’s a dish meant for sharing—perfect for bringing loved ones together around the breakfast table. So, gather your ingredients and create your own delicious memories. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let your loved ones know how much you cherish these moments together!

Contents

• 1 Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
  • 1.1 Ingredients  
  • 1.2 Method 
  • 1.3 Notes

Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

A warm and comforting breakfast casserole that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings and busy mornings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 10 large Eggs The heart of the dish, providing protein and a fluffy texture.
• 1 pound Sausage, breakfast variety Choose spicy or mild based on your taste.
• 6-8 slices Bread Day-old is best, cubed into bite-sized pieces.
• 2 cups Milk Whole milk works wonders; skim or non-dairy milk can be used.
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded A cheesy layer is essential.
• 1 cup Bell peppers, diced Feel free to swap for spinach or mushrooms!
• 1 small Onion, diced Adds depth of flavor.
• Salt and pepper To taste, enhance those flavors.

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crispy.
2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked sausage mixture and half of the cheese.
5. Pour this mixture over the cubed bread.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
7. Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cover and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

Spice it up with jalapeños or hot sauce. Customize with different cheeses or veggies.