Looking for a tasty start to your day? This Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole is your answer! It’s packed with delicious sausage, creamy cheese, and the warmth of eggs. You’ll love how easy it is to make. Ideal for busy mornings or a cozy brunch, this dish satisfies everyone’s cravings. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You won’t want to miss this simple, satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (your choice: pork, turkey, or plant-based)
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 3 cups day-old bread, cubed
The breakfast sausage is the star of this dish. You can choose pork for a classic taste, turkey for a leaner option, or plant-based sausage for a meat-free choice. The eggs and milk create a rich, custardy base that holds everything together. Day-old bread works best because it soaks in all the flavors without getting soggy. Fresh bread can be used, but you may need to adjust the soaking time.
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (like parsley or chives)
Cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor. I love using sharp cheddar, but you can mix in other cheeses for variety. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition, while onion gives a sweet depth to the dish. Garlic powder and oregano are key seasonings that brighten the flavor. Adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste. For a finishing touch, fresh herbs make each serving look beautiful and add a fresh taste.
For the full recipe, check out the Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole details.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help the casserole cook evenly.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use butter or cooking spray to keep the dish non-stick.
3. Cook the sausage. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of breakfast sausage. Cook it until browned and crumbly, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks.
4. Drain excess grease. After cooking, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any grease left in the pan.
5. Cook the vegetables. In the same skillet, add 1 small diced onion. Cook it until soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add 1 cup of chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, which takes another 1 to 2 minutes.
Casserole Assembly
1. Layer the ingredients. In the greased dish, evenly spread 3 cups of cubed day-old bread.
2. Add the sausage and veggies. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and the sautéed onion and spinach mixture over the bread.
3. Prepare the egg mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour and soak. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Use a spatula to press down gently. This helps the egg soak into the bread.
5. Top with cheese. Spread 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
Baking Instructions
1. Set the oven temperature. Since you’ve preheated it to 350°F (175°C), you’re ready to bake.
2. Bake the casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Look for the casserole to be set and the cheese to be bubbly and golden.
3. Check doneness. To check if it’s done, insert a knife into the center. It should come out clean.
4. Cool before serving. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
For the full recipe, refer to the instructions provided earlier. Enjoy your savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To get the perfect texture in your casserole, use day-old bread. Fresh bread can be too soft and soggy. The bread should soak up the egg mixture well without losing its shape.
Adjust the seasonings to fit your taste. If you love garlic, add more garlic powder. For a spicy kick, try adding red pepper flakes. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
Presentation Suggestions
Garnish each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This adds color and freshness. You can also serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. This contrast helps balance the rich flavors.
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea. This makes breakfast feel special and complete.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can change up the proteins in this casserole. Instead of breakfast sausage, try chicken or bacon. If you want a meat-free meal, use a plant-based sausage. Each option gives a different taste and feel.
You can also switch the cheese. Cheddar is great, but you can use mozzarella or pepper jack. Each cheese brings a new flavor. For a creamier casserole, add cream cheese or ricotta to the mix.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread. There are many tasty brands available. Just make sure to check for any hidden gluten in other ingredients.
For low-carb or keto-friendly versions, you can skip the bread altogether. Replace it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. These swaps lower the carbs while keeping the dish filling. Enjoy your savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole in a way that fits your diet! You can find the full recipe above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will stay good in the freezer for about three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to eat your leftover casserole, you have a few options. The oven works great. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. This keeps it warm and helps maintain the texture. You can also use the microwave. Heat individual portions for about 1-2 minutes on high. Just be careful, as this method can make the edges dry. Enjoy your meal!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Prepare it the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge. This saves time and makes breakfast easy.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?
You can use fresh bread, but it may turn out soggier. Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture better. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry a bit.
Recipe-Related Inquiries
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add spices like paprika or cayenne for heat. Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms also add great flavor. An extra layer of cheese on top gives it a nice, rich taste. Feel free to mix and match!
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and portion it out for the week. Store it in the fridge and reheat individual servings in the microwave. This dish stays tasty for several days.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above to create this savory delight!
This casserole blends a variety of ingredients, making it versatile and tasty. We discussed how to prepare it, from cooking the sausage to layering the dish. You’ve got tips on cooking and serving, plus ways to customize for different diets.
In the end, this dish is easy to make and perfect for any meal. Enjoy trying new variations and impressing friends and family with your cooking skills!
