Name: Sausage Breakfast Casserole: The Ultimate Make-Ahead Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 130 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular); 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for richness); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon dry mustard; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

Sausage Breakfast Casserole: the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will transform your weekend brunch from ordinary to extraordinary! Imagine waking up to the savory aroma of perfectly browned sausage mingling with fluffy eggs and melted cheese – a symphony of flavors that promises a delightful start to your day. This isn't just breakfast; it's an experience.

Casseroles, in general, have a rich history, evolving from humble peasant dishes designed to utilize leftovers into culinary staples enjoyed worldwide. The beauty of a Sausage Breakfast Casserole lies in its versatility and convenience. It's a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you're hosting a brunch for friends and family.

But what is it about this particular dish that makes it so universally loved? It's the perfect combination of textures – the crispy edges of the sausage, the soft and creamy eggs, and the gooey, melted cheese. The savory sausage provides a hearty base, while the eggs add a light and airy element. And let's not forget the cheese, which binds everything together in a warm and comforting embrace. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy breakfast solution or a show-stopping dish to impress your guests, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients:

1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular)
1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
6 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole milk works best for richness)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

Preparing the Sausage and Bread

Okay, let's get started! The first thing we need to do is cook the sausage. I like to use a large skillet for this, so I have plenty of room to crumble it up nicely.

Cook the Sausage: Place the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a spatula to break the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, usually about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Drain the Excess Grease: Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. You can do this by tilting the skillet and using a spoon to scoop out the grease, or by transferring the sausage to a colander lined with paper towels. Getting rid of the extra grease will prevent the casserole from being too oily.
Prepare the Bread: While the sausage is cooking, you can prepare the French bread. Cut the loaf into 1-inch cubes. I find that slightly stale bread works best for this, as it will absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. If your bread is very fresh, you can leave the cubes out on a baking sheet for an hour or so to dry out a bit.

Making the Egg Mixture

Now, let's whip up the egg mixture that will bind everything together and give the casserole its delicious texture.

Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Use a whisk to beat the eggs until they are light and frothy. This will incorporate air into the mixture and help the casserole rise slightly when it bakes.
Add the Milk and Seasonings: Pour the 2 cups of milk into the bowl with the eggs. Add the dry mustard, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The dry mustard adds a subtle tang that complements the sausage and cheese perfectly.

Assembling the Casserole

This is where the magic happens! We're going to layer all the ingredients in the baking dish and let them soak up that delicious egg mixture.

Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is preheating, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with the tablespoon of butter. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides of the dish evenly to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Layer the Bread: Spread the cubed French bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Try to arrange the cubes in a single layer, but it's okay if they overlap slightly.
Add the Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Distribute it so that every bite will have a little bit of sausage.
Sprinkle the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese over the sausage. I like to use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor, but you can use all cheddar or all Monterey Jack if you prefer.
Pour the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese. Make sure to pour it evenly so that all the bread cubes are soaked. You might need to gently press down on the bread cubes with a spoon to help them absorb the liquid.
Add Green Onions: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the casserole. The green onions add a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Let it Soak (Important!): Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a moist and flavorful casserole. Don't skip this step! It makes a huge difference in the final product.

Baking the Casserole

Finally, it's time to bake the casserole and let all those flavors meld together into a breakfast masterpiece!

Bake the Casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). This will help the casserole bake more evenly.
Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Covering the casserole prevents the top from browning too quickly.
Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. A knife inserted into the center of the casserole should come out clean.
Let it Rest: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

This sausage breakfast casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even better:

Serve with a side of fresh fruit: Berries, melon, or grapes are a refreshing complement to the savory casserole.
Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt: This adds a creamy tang that balances the richness of the casserole.
Drizzle with hot sauce: If you like a little heat, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce is a great addition.
Serve with a side of maple syrup: For a sweet and savory combination, try drizzling a little maple syrup over the casserole.
Make it a complete brunch: Serve the casserole with other brunch favorites like bacon, pancakes, or waffles.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to customize this recipe to your liking:

Use different types of sausage: Instead of breakfast sausage, you can use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage.
Add vegetables: Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the casserole.
Use different types of cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Gruyere, or provolone.
Add a layer of hash browns: For an even heartier casserole, add a layer of cooked hash browns to the bottom of the baking dish before adding the bread.
Make it ahead of time: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freeze it: Baked casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make it Spicy!

If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use a spicy sausage.

Make it Vegetarian!

Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.

Storage Instructions

Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious and easy sausage breakfast casserole! It's perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a hearty and satisfying breakfast.

Conclusion:

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole isn't just another breakfast recipe; it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your weekend brunch rotation. The savory sausage, the fluffy eggs, the melted cheese – it all comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures that's simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you'll understand why I'm so enthusiastic! But what truly elevates this casserole to "must-try" status is its sheer versatility. It's perfect for a lazy Sunday morning with the family, a potluck brunch with friends, or even a make-ahead breakfast for busy weekdays. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Serving Suggestions and Variations: Want to kick things up a notch? Consider adding some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture for extra flavor and nutrients. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes will add a touch of heat, while a handful of chopped spinach will boost the nutritional value. For a vegetarian option, simply substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or a medley of roasted vegetables. And don't forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang, while a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley provides a pop of color and freshness. Hot sauce is always a welcome addition for those who like a little spice. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit, toast, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. For a truly decadent experience, try using croissants instead of bread for the base of the casserole. The buttery, flaky croissants will add a richness that's simply divine. Or, if you're looking for a lighter option, use whole-wheat bread and reduce the amount of cheese. Why This Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a Must-Try: Beyond its deliciousness and versatility, this casserole is also incredibly easy to make. It requires minimal prep time and can be assembled ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. Simply prepare the casserole the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning. It's a lifesaver when you're short on time but still want to enjoy a hearty and homemade breakfast. Furthermore, this recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. Got some stale bread lying around? Toss it into the casserole! Have some leftover cooked vegetables? Add them to the sausage mixture! This recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and create a delicious and satisfying meal at the same time. I truly believe that this Sausage Breakfast Casserole will become a family favorite. It's a recipe that's sure to impress your friends and family, and it's one that you'll find yourself making again and again. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible breakfast casserole. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you've made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I'd love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you've discovered along the way. Happy cooking!