This hearty breakfast casserole is packed with yummy sausage, eggs, and cheese, all baked together in a warm, comforting dish. It’s great for feeding a crowd!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy goodness in the morning? I love making this on lazy weekends. Just bake, serve, and watch everyone smile from ear to ear!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. I usually prefer the mild kind since it gives a nice balance to the dish.
Eggs: Large eggs are the best choice since they help bind everything together. If you’re looking to cut cholesterol, try using egg substitutes or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites.
Milk: Whole milk will give you a creamier texture, but you can substitute it with skim milk or almond milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a really strong flavor. If you don’t have cheddar, try Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra kick. Vegan cheese is also an option for dairy-free eaters.
Bread: White bread is classic, but feel free to experiment with whole wheat or sourdough for added flavor. If you’re gluten-free, gluten-free bread works well too!
How Do I Get the Eggs to Set Perfectly?
Getting the eggs perfectly set is key to a great casserole. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Make sure to mix the eggs, milk, and seasonings well to avoid any clumps.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the liquid.
- Bake uncovered—the heat needs to circulate to cook the eggs evenly.
- Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. If it slightly jiggles in the middle, it needs more time. Look for a golden top and firm edges!
Remember to let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This way, the casserole will hold together better when serving.
Pioneer Woman Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 6 slices white bread, cubed into bite-sized pieces
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, diced red bell pepper, or chili peppers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 to 50 minutes of baking. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to have this delicious meal ready to go. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a special breakfast gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once it’s browned, drain off any excess grease, then set it aside for later.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the 6 large eggs and pour in the 1½ cups of milk. Add the salt and pepper, then whisk everything together until it’s well combined and fluffy.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now, add the cubed bread, the cooked sausage, and 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Gently stir it all together, making sure that the bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture.
5. Pour into Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the egg, bread, and sausage mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks evenly.
6. Add Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top of the casserole for a deliciously cheesy finish!
7. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake it for about 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit more, making slicing easier. Optionally, you can garnish it with some chopped green onions or diced red bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
9. Serve:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your warm and cheesy sausage breakfast casserole to family and friends, and enjoy all the smiles at the table!
This casserole is perfect for those family breakfasts or brunch gatherings—rich, cheesy, and full of savory sausage flavor. You’re going to love it!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the breakfast sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed if you’re using raw meat.
What Type of Bread Works Best for This Casserole?
While white bread is traditional, you can use whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if necessary. Just make sure it’s somewhat stale or toasted to help it soak up the egg mixture better!
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Just assemble the casserole (up to the baking step), cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, then bake as directed—adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
