Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
This convenient and hearty Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is perfect for busy mornings, offering a crowd-pleasing solution that can be prepared the night before.
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
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.