A close-up of sausage breakfast casserole, golden cheese on top, served in a baking dish.
Sausage breakfast casserole is the perfect dish for a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch. This recipe uses turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter, leaner version of the classic breakfast casserole, but it still has all the delicious, cheesy flavor you love. Filled with eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread, this casserole is sure to fill you up.
It’s also great for meal prep, and you can make it ahead of time and bake it in the morning for a quick, easy breakfast. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Introduction
Sausage breakfast casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread into one hearty casserole. It’s perfect for busy mornings, holiday breakfasts, or any time you need a filling breakfast with minimal effort. The combination of turkey sausage, eggs, and cheese creates a balanced and satisfying dish.
This recipe can be made the night before and baked the next morning, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Easy to make: The casserole comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time.
- Hearty and filling: This dish has everything you need for a satisfying breakfast.
- Lighter option: Using turkey or chicken sausage makes this casserole lighter without sacrificing flavor.
- Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach, peppers, or onions for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Perfect for a crowd: This casserole is ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or potlucks.
Ingredients for Sausage Breakfast Casserole
For the Casserole
- Turkey sausage (1 pound): A leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage.
- Eggs (6 large): The base of the casserole filling.
- Cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Adds flavor and creaminess to the casserole.
- Bread (4 cups, cubed): Day-old bread works best for absorbing the egg mixture.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps create a custard-like texture for the filling.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild heat and flavor.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory flavors.
Optional Add-ins
- Spinach (1 cup, chopped): Adds color and nutrients.
- Bell peppers (1/2 cup, chopped): For extra flavor and crunch.
- Onion (1/2 cup, chopped): For sweetness and depth of flavor.
Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe Step-by-Step
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours resting time)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
- 1. Cook the sausage. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the turkey sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- 2. Prepare the casserole. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the cooked sausage, cubed bread, and cheese. Stir to combine.
- 3. Assemble the casserole. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the casserole mixture into the dish. Press down lightly to ensure even distribution.
- 4. Refrigerate overnight (optional). If making ahead, cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- 5. Bake the casserole. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole for 45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- 6. Cool and serve. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Reader Review: This casserole is perfect for breakfast – it’s so cheesy and filling!
Tips for Perfect Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Use day-old bread: Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture better and doesn’t get soggy.
- Cook the sausage thoroughly: Make sure the sausage is browned and crumbled so that it cooks evenly in the casserole.
- Add vegetables for extra flavor: If you want to add some extra flavor and color, try adding spinach, peppers, or onions.
Variations & Substitutions
- Other sausages: You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage, pork sausage, or even vegetarian sausage.
- Dairy-free version: Use non-dairy milk and dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free casserole.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make-Ahead & Freezing
- Make ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- For breakfast: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or avocado toast.
- For brunch: Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
- For family gatherings: This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd on holidays or special occasions.
If you make this sausage breakfast casserole, let me know how it turned out! Did you add any extra ingredients?