This hearty breakfast casserole is made with just four simple ingredients: sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread. It’s filling and warms you right up!
You can whip this up quickly, perfect for those busy mornings. Plus, it’s so tasty, I often have leftovers for lunch. Who doesn’t love breakfast any time of the day? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is the star of the dish! You can use pork sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. I usually go for the spicy variety to give it an extra kick!
Eggs: You’ll need large eggs for the best texture. If you want to cut cholesterol, consider using egg whites or an egg substitute. Keep in mind that this might change the texture slightly, but it’ll still be tasty!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite for its sharp flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend. If you want a vegan option, look for dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Bread: Any bread works! White, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread is fine. For a twist, try using leftover baguette or croissants for a buttery flavor. Just make sure it’s not super fresh; slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the bake just right can be tricky! Here are some tips:
- Use a 9×9-inch dish for even cooking. If you use a larger dish, the casserole may cook too quickly.
- Make sure the sausage is fully cooked and crumbled evenly before adding it to the mixture.
- Check the casserole around 30 minutes. It should puff up and be golden on top, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- If you find the top is browning too fast, cover with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
Let it cool for a few minutes after baking—this helps it set and makes slicing easier!
4 Ingredient Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bread, cubed (can be white or whole wheat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy! Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to stir it occasionally to break it up further. Once cooked, drain any excess fat so you have just the tasty sausage left.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until they are fully combined. This will be the base of your casserole, so whisking well is key!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add in the cubed bread, the cooked sausage, and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the eggs. Give everything a good stir to ensure it’s all mixed together nicely.
5. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Pour this delicious mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, making sure it’s evenly distributed in the dish.
6. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This will create a cheesy, golden crust as it bakes!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the eggs should be set, and the top should be a lovely golden brown when it’s ready.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to slice into squares. Serve warm and, if you like, garnish with some chopped chives or parsley for an extra touch!
Enjoy this easy and filling breakfast casserole that’s perfect for busy mornings or serving a crowd! It’s quick, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread that you like. Whole wheat, sourdough, or even croissants work wonderfully. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture.
How Can I Make This Casserole Spicier?
If you’d like a kick of heat, consider using spicy breakfast sausage or adding chopped jalapeños to the mix. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an added spice boost!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to sneak in some sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them to the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Enjoy for a quick breakfast any day of the week!
