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To make this breakfast casserole, you need simple, hearty ingredients. Start with 1 pound of breakfast sausage. This will give your dish a nice, meaty flavor. Next, you need 1 onion and 1 red bell pepper. Dice these up to add some color and sweetness.

Fireman's Overnight Breakfast Casserole With Country Gravy

Start your morning off right with the Hearty Fireman's Overnight Breakfast Casserole Delight! This delicious and easy recipe features layers of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies, all baked to perfection. Perfect for gatherings or a special breakfast at home, it's packed with flavor and protein. Dive into step-by-step instructions to make this mouthwatering casserole and impress your loved ones. Click now to discover the full recipe and elevate your breakfast game!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled

1 onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

8 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

4 cups cubed day-old bread (French or sourdough)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Country Gravy:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions
 

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled breakfast sausage until browned. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

      Layer the cubed bread in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the cooked sausage mixture and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

        Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage layers, ensuring everything is soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 6 hours) to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.

          Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

            Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the egg is set in the center and the top is golden brown.

              While the casserole is baking, prepare the country gravy. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.

                Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens, around 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Remove from heat.

                  Once the casserole is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve slices topped generously with the warm country gravy.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 8

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the casserole on individual plates, drizzled with country gravy, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.