Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole Flavorful Feast

Wake up to the delightful aroma of a Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole! This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a special brunch. With layers of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, every bite is a flavor bomb. I’ll guide you through simple steps to create this hearty meal. So grab your ingredients and let’s turn breakfast into a flavorful feast that everyone will love!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 pound breakfast sausage

– 6 large eggs

– 2 cups whole milk

– 4 cups bread cubes (sourdough or challah)

– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup diced bell peppers

– 1 cup diced onion

– Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper

– Fresh parsley for garnish

When I create a Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole, I start with quality ingredients. The breakfast sausage adds rich flavor and protein. I prefer using bulk sausage for easy cooking and crumbling.

Next, I include eggs and whole milk for a creamy texture. These two ingredients create a fluffy base that holds everything together. Fresh bread cubes are key. I like sourdough or challah because they soak up the egg mix very well.

Cheddar cheese brings a melty, savory touch. I use a generous amount to ensure that every bite is cheesy. Diced bell peppers and onions add color and sweetness. They provide a nice crunch and balance to the dish.

For seasoning, I choose garlic powder and paprika. These spices enhance the flavor without overpowering it. I season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, I like to garnish my dish with fresh parsley. It adds a bright touch and makes the casserole look appealing.

These ingredients come together to make a hearty, delicious breakfast that’s perfect for any morning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, get a 9×13 inch baking dish. Grease it well with cooking spray or olive oil. This helps the casserole come out clean.

2. Cook the breakfast sausage and drain excess grease

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it turns brown and crumbles nicely. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is too much grease, drain it off. Set the cooked sausage aside for later.

Mixing Ingredients

1. Whisk together eggs and seasonings

In a big mixing bowl, crack 6 large eggs. Pour in 2 cups of whole milk. Add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth.

2. Layer ingredients in the baking dish

Now, grab your greased baking dish. Layer 4 cups of bread cubes evenly across the bottom. Next, spread the cooked sausage over the bread. Then, add 1 cup each of diced bell peppers and onions. Finally, pour the egg mixture over all the layers, soaking everything well.

Baking the Casserole

1. Baking time and desired doneness

Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake the casserole in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. It’s ready when it puffs up and the edges turn golden brown. To check, insert a knife in the center. It should come out clean.

2. Let cool and serving suggestions

After baking, let the casserole cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. This helps it set. When serving, cut it into squares and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair it with fresh fruit or a light salad for a tasty breakfast.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To ensure even cooking of the sausage, use medium heat. Break the sausage into small pieces with a spatula. Cook it until it is nicely browned. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir regularly to avoid burning.

To check for doneness, look for a nice brown color. The sausage should no longer be pink inside. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature is 160°F (71°C).

Serving Suggestions

For the best accompaniments, serve the casserole hot. Fresh fruit, like berries or orange slices, adds color and flavor. A light salad can also balance the meal nicely.

For presentation, cut the casserole into squares. Garnish each piece with fresh parsley. This adds a pop of green and makes the dish more inviting. You can also serve it on a colorful platter to make it stand out.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the meat in this dish. Ground turkey or chicken works well. If you prefer a meat-free option, use plant-based sausage. This keeps the flavor while making it lighter.

For cheese, you can use pepper jack for a spicy kick. Cream cheese adds richness, too. Feel free to mix in different vegetables. Spinach or mushrooms can add more color and nutrients.

Different Cooking Methods

If you want an easy option, try a slow cooker. Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours. It will be ready when the eggs set.

You can also make this a freezer meal. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly. Freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just bake from frozen. It may take a bit longer, so check for doneness.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cheesy sausage breakfast casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This helps prevent drying out and keeps flavors intact. Place the casserole in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This keeps it safe to eat.

If you have a lot left, freezing is a great option. Cut the casserole into portions for easy reheating. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This prevents freezer burn. Label the containers with the date.

When you want to eat it, thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave or oven. Heat until warm. A microwave takes about 2-3 minutes, while the oven takes around 20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Shelf Life

Your cheesy sausage breakfast casserole lasts about three to four days in the fridge. If you freeze it, it stays good for up to three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for any odd smell or color before eating.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can. Prepare the casserole the night before. Just cover it and place it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. This makes mornings easy and quick.

What could I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit or a light salad. You can also serve it with yogurt or juice. These options add brightness and balance to your meal.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Just use gluten-free bread cubes. Many brands offer great options. This way, you keep the flavor while catering to dietary needs.

How can I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

To serve fewer people, reduce the ingredients by half. Use 3 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 2 cups of bread cubes. This keeps the flavors strong while making less.

How do I store leftovers?

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool first. Place it in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just chop them small and layer them in. This adds nutrition and makes it even tastier.

Is it okay to use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses. Mozzarella or pepper jack adds a nice twist. Just keep the total cheese amount the same for best results.

This blog post covered a delicious Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and cooking tips. I also shared variations and storage advice to make it your own. You’ll impress friends and family with this easy dish. Remember to try different meats and veggies. Feel free to prep it ahead or freeze leftovers. This casserole is versatile and fun. Enjoy your cooking, and have a great mea