Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is the quintessential morning meal for feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch. This hearty casserole combines fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese, all layered with pieces of soft bread that soak up the flavors and give it structure. As it bakes, the top becomes delightfully crispy while the interior remains rich and creamy. Perfect for preparing ahead of time, this breakfast casserole is a convenient option for busy mornings or holiday gatherings, ensuring everyone starts the day with a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 6 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old bread)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder or 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped onions, 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the bread and then half of the cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, sausage, and cheese. If using onions and bell peppers, sprinkle them over the top.
- Mix the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the Egg Mixture:
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the ingredients in the baking dish, making sure to coat everything evenly. Gently press down with a fork or the back of a spoon to ensure all the bread is soaked with the egg mixture.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
This Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that can be adapted to include various ingredients such as different types of cheese, vegetables, or even swap out the sausage for bacon or ham. It’s a wonderful dish that captures the essence of a hearty breakfast in every bite, sure to satisfy hungry guests or family members.
