Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a homemade breakfast bubbling away in the oven. The scent engulfs the entire house, wrapping you in warmth and comfort, promising a day full of joy. This is why my family loves the Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole; it’s a hearty dish that invokes cherished memories around the breakfast table, laughter echoing, and a sense of togetherness filling the air.
Whether it’s a cozy Sunday morning or a special Christmas breakfast, this easy meal feels like a hug on a plate. And the best part? You can prepare it the night before and enjoy a stress-free morning, leaving you time to sip coffee and soak in the moment. If you are looking for a dish that combines simple dinner flavors with a festive spirit, this casserole is it!
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick Prep: You can assemble it in about 15 minutes. Just toss everything together, and you’re done!
- Cozy Flavors: The combination of eggs, sausages, and gooey cheese envelops you in comfort.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a group—great for brunches, family gatherings, or even holiday feasts.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand! Swap out the sausage for bacon or add in your favorite veggies for a personalized touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Eggs (8 large): The star of the show, creating that fluffy, custardy texture.
- Sausage (1 pound): Use breakfast sausage or Italian sausage; choose spicy or mild based on your preference.
- Bread (8 slices): Classic white bread works beautifully, but you can also opt for whole grain or sourdough for a twist.
- Milk (2 cups): Whole milk gives a luscious creaminess, but you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a lighter option.
- Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): A melty, oozy goodness. Swap in pepper jack for some extra kick.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds depth and sweetness; shallots are also a fantastic substitute for a more delicate flavor.
- Bell Peppers (1 cup, diced): For color and crunch; any color works well!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
While this casserole is straightforward to prepare, the patience involved while it bakes is absolutely worth it—your kitchen will fill with delightful aromas that keep everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite.
How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
- Preheat your oven: First, set it to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready to bake your creation.
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers for the last few minutes until they soften. As the garlic sizzles, the aroma will fill your kitchen, drawing everyone closer!
- Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, salt, and pepper. Imagine the velvety mixture as it combines into a beautiful golden blend.
- Layer the casserole: Arrange the bread slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, then sprinkle the sausage mixture on top, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the bread absorb all those flavorful juices.
- Bake: In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven heats up. Bake uncovered for about 50-60 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. The mouth-watering happiness awaits!
- Serve hot: Let it rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm and watch as everyone digs in with smiles.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Veggie Lovers: Toss in spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheesy Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, gouda, or mozzarella.
- Spice Things Up: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of hot sauce for some heat!
- Herbs & Seasonings: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten the dish.
Serving Ideas
Pair this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole with fresh fruit, a light green salad, or crispy hash browns. It’s wonderful alongside brewed coffee or mimosas for a special brunch vibe. Picture a table overflowing with laughter, stories, and this delightful casserole taking center stage while everyone enjoys meaningful conversations.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though highly unlikely!), store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Pro Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: This casserole is best when made the night before—flavors meld together beautifully!
- Avoid Soggy Bread: If you prefer a firmer texture, slightly toast the bread before adding it to the casserole.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
FAQs
- Can I freeze this recipe? Absolutely! Just assemble it without baking, freeze, and bake when you’re ready.
- What’s the best substitute for sausage? Turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage work well for a lighter option.
- Can I use different bread? Yes! Challah, croissants, or gluten-free bread can all be delicious alternatives.
Conclusion
With every serving of this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole, you’re not just offering a meal; you’re sharing warmth, joy, and love. It’s a delightful way to gather those dear to you, creating new memories around the breakfast table. So, set aside some time this week to whip up this comforting recipe, and bask in the happiness it will surely bring. Enjoy sharing it with your friends and family—and don’t forget to savor every bite!
Contents
Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 8 large Eggs The star of the show, creating that fluffy, custardy texture.
- 1 pound Sausage Use breakfast sausage or Italian sausage; choose spicy or mild based on your preference.
- 8 slices Bread Classic white bread works beautifully, but whole grain or sourdough can be used.
- 2 cups Milk Whole milk gives a luscious creaminess; can be substituted with almond or oat milk.
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded A melty, oozy goodness; swap in pepper jack for extra kick.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds depth and sweetness; shallots are a great substitute.
- 1 cup Bell Peppers, diced For color and crunch; any color works well.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers for the last few minutes until softened.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Arrange the bread slices in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, then sprinkle the sausage mixture on top, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- In the morning, remove the dish from the fridge while the oven heats up.
- Bake uncovered for about 50-60 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.
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