Contents
- 1 Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
- 2 Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Introduction
Have you ever woken up on a busy morning only to realize there’s no time for a proper breakfast? The solution lies in a delightful dish called the Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole. This tasty recipe not only simplifies your mornings but is also a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or brunches. Did you know that casseroles can save you over 30 minutes of prep time compared to traditional breakfast dishes? If you’re looking for a fulfilling, easy-to-make breakfast option that you can prepare the night before, then this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is your answer!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite pork, turkey, or plant-based sausage.
- 6 large eggs: These provide the protein and richness to the casserole.
- 2 cups milk: You can opt for whole, low-fat, or plant-based milk for a lighter version.
- 4 cups diced bread: French bread, bagels, or gluten-free options work beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: This adds flavor; try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- 1/2 cup diced onions: Sweet or yellow onions create a great depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers: Choose a mix of colors for a beautiful presentation.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic enhances the overall taste profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Timing
Preparation for the Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole takes approximately 15 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 45 minutes. In total, you’ll spend 1 hour on this dish, which is 25% less time than many traditional breakfast recipes requiring more meticulous preparation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. This usually takes 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they are soft, about 3-5 minutes. This builds flavor and aroma. Personal tip: Add a pinch of salt to help release the moisture from the veggies.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread Base
Grease a large baking dish (9×13 inches works great) and layer the diced bread evenly across the bottom. This creates a cozy base for your casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Mixture
Spread the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables over the bread. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread and other ingredients.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a delicious crust during baking.
Step 6: Overnight Soak
Cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, maximizing flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 45 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Nutritional Information
Serving size: 1 piece (1/12 of the casserole)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
This Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole can fit into a well-rounded diet, especially when served with fresh fruit or yogurt on the side.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use Egg Whites: Swap out half or all of the eggs for egg whites to reduce cholesterol and fat.
- Whole Grain Bread: Opt for whole grain or sprouted bread for added fiber.
- Spinach or Kale: Incorporate leafy greens for added nutrients without changing much in flavor.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Substitute regular cheese for low-fat options or simply reduce the cheese quantity.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an aromatic touch. Pair it with a side of sliced avocados or a light salad for a complete meal. Feel free to experiment with adding hot sauce or salsa on top for a spicy twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Overnight Refrigeration: This is crucial for flavor and texture. Avoid rushing this step.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole towards the end of the bake time to prevent dryness.
- Neglecting to Grease the Pan: Always grease your baking dish to avoid sticking, unless using non-stick.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a Ziploc bag – they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Conclusion
The Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a time-saver and a flavor bomb that fits perfectly into your busy lifestyle. It combines the ease of preparation with the comfort of a hearty breakfast. We encourage you to try this recipe for your next morning rush or as a weekend indulgence. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations in the comments below!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and consider adding mushrooms or zucchini for added texture.
Q: How do I prevent the bread from becoming too soggy?
A: Using slightly stale bread or toasting it lightly before layering can help absorb the egg mixture without getting overly soft.
Q: Can I prepare the casserole and bake it immediately?
A: While it’s best to let it sit overnight, you can bake it right away; just note that the texture may be different.
With these tips and insights, you are prepared to conquer your breakfast game with this excellent Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole. Happy cooking!
Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
For the Base
- 4 cups diced bread French bread, bagels, or gluten-free options work beautifully.
For the Filling
- 1 pound breakfast sausage Choose your favorite pork, turkey, or plant-based sausage.
- 6 large eggs These provide the protein and richness to the casserole.
- 2 cups milk Whole, low-fat, or plant-based milk can be used.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- 1/2 cup diced onions Sweet or yellow onions create a great depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers Choose a mix of colors for a beautiful presentation.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Garlic enhances the overall taste profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. This usually takes 5-7 minutes. Tip: Drain excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté until they are soft, about 3-5 minutes. This builds flavor and aroma. Personal tip: Add a pinch of salt to help release the moisture from the veggies.
- Grease a large baking dish (9×13 inches works great) and layer the diced bread evenly across the bottom. This creates a cozy base for your casserole.
- Spread the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables over the bread. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread and other ingredients.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a delicious crust during baking.
- Cover the casserole with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, maximizing flavor.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for about 45 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.
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