Sausage Egg Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Sausage egg casserole: just the name conjures up images of cozy mornings, family gatherings, and that irresistible aroma wafting through the house. Have you ever woken up craving something hearty, comforting, and utterly delicious? Well, look no further! This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a warm hug on a plate, and I’m thrilled to share my foolproof recipe with you.

While the exact origins of the sausage egg casserole are a bit hazy, its roots are firmly planted in the tradition of resourceful home cooking. Think about it: a way to use up leftover bread, cheese, and that package of sausage before it goes bad? Genius! It’s a dish born from practicality that has evolved into a beloved staple, especially in the Southern United States, where it graces countless holiday brunch tables and potlucks.

What makes this casserole so universally adored? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The savory sausage, the creamy eggs, the slightly crusty bread, and the melted cheese create a symphony of deliciousness in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can assemble it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning, leaving you free to enjoy time with your loved ones (or just savor that extra cup of coffee). Get ready to experience breakfast bliss!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 12 large eggs
• 3 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
• Cooking spray

Preparing the Sausage and Bread

Okay, let’s get started! First things first, we need to prep our sausage and bread. This is a crucial step because it lays the foundation for a delicious and evenly textured casserole.

1. Cook the Sausage: Begin by cooking your breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. You want it to be fully cooked and nicely browned. Nobody wants undercooked sausage! Once it’s cooked through, drain off any excess grease. This is important to prevent a greasy casserole. Set the cooked sausage aside for now.
2. Cube the Bread: While the sausage is cooking (or after, if you prefer), grab your loaf of French bread. Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Don’t worry about being perfect; slightly uneven cubes are totally fine. The goal is to have bite-sized pieces that will soak up the egg mixture beautifully.

Assembling the Casserole

Now for the fun part – putting everything together! This is where the magic happens, and we start to see our casserole taking shape.

1. Grease the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze later on. Trust me, you’ll thank me for this step!
2. Layer the Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the bread. Then, sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese and half of the Monterey Jack cheese over the sausage. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, sausage, cheddar cheese, and Monterey Jack cheese. We’re building layers of flavor here!

Preparing the Egg Mixture

The egg mixture is what binds everything together and gives the casserole its creamy, custardy texture. It’s important to get the proportions right for the perfect consistency.

1. Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, crack all 12 eggs. Whisk them together until they are light and frothy. This will ensure a smooth and even egg mixture.
2. Add the Milk and Seasonings: Pour the milk into the bowl with the eggs. Add the dry mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined. The dry mustard adds a subtle tang that really enhances the flavor of the casserole.

Soaking and Baking

This is the final stretch! We’re almost there. The soaking process allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a moist and flavorful casserole. The baking process then transforms everything into a golden-brown, bubbly masterpiece.

1. Pour the Egg Mixture: Slowly and evenly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Make sure the bread is well saturated. You might need to gently press down on the bread with a spoon to help it absorb the liquid.
2. Soak (Optional, but Recommended): For best results, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a much more flavorful and moist casserole. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I highly recommend it if you can.
3. Bake: Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from browning too much. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
4. Cool Slightly: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the casserole to set up a bit, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Garnishing

The final touch! A little garnish can elevate the presentation of your casserole and add a pop of freshness.

1. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle the chopped fresh chives over the top of the casserole for a pop of color and a fresh, oniony flavor. You can also use other garnishes, such as chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
2. Serve: Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. This sausage egg casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. It’s also great for potlucks and holiday gatherings.

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your casserole? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Different Meats: Instead of breakfast sausage, you can use cooked ham, bacon, or even chorizo.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Swiss, or pepper jack.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a little heat.
• Bread Alternatives: Use croissants, brioche, or even leftover dinner rolls instead of French bread.
• Make it Ahead: This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.
• Freezing Instructions: You can also freeze the casserole for later. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Casserole is too dry: Make sure you’re using enough egg mixture to saturate the bread. You may also need to add a little more milk.
• Casserole is too soggy: Make sure you’re draining the sausage well after cooking it. You can also use slightly stale bread, which will absorb the egg mixture better.
• Casserole is browning too quickly: Loosely cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
• Casserole is not cooking through: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. You may also need to increase the baking time slightly.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the following nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

• Serving Size: 1 square (approximately 1/12 of the casserole)
• Calories: 400-450
• Fat: 25-30g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 250-300mg
• Sodium: 500-600mg
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugar: 5-7g
• Protein: 20-25g

Enjoy your delicious sausage egg casserole! I hope this recipe becomes a family favorite.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a game-changer. This sausage egg casserole is a must-try because it’s the ultimate combination of comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor. Seriously, imagine waking up to the aroma of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese – it’s the perfect way to start any day, especially a busy one! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can prep it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and have a hot, delicious breakfast ready in under an hour. No more frantic scrambling or last-minute cereal bowls!

But the real magic is in the taste. The creamy egg mixture perfectly complements the savory sausage, creating a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. And let’s not forget the cheese! A generous layer of melted cheese adds a richness and gooeyness that takes this casserole to the next level. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to fuel you up for whatever the day throws your way.

Beyond its deliciousness and ease, this sausage egg casserole is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it to your liking! Want to add some veggies? Throw in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach. Looking for a little spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage. You can even swap out the bread for croissants or biscuits for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Serve it with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced and refreshing meal.
* Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
* Make it a complete brunch by serving it with mimosas or coffee.
* For a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with mushrooms or other vegetables.
* Try different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for a unique flavor profile.
* Use different types of bread, such as sourdough or challah, for a different texture.
* Make individual casseroles in muffin tins for a quick and easy breakfast on the go.
* Add a layer of hash browns to the bottom of the casserole for extra heartiness.
* Top with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
* Serve with a side of hot sauce for those who like a little heat.

I truly believe this sausage egg casserole will become a staple in your breakfast rotation. It’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate breakfast casserole. I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do!

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy your delicious and easy sausage egg casserole!