Introduction
If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that brings the whole family together for breakfast, look no further than this delightful Sausage and Egg Casserole. With its layers of perfectly seasoned breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, this casserole is not just filling but absolutely bursting with flavor. It’s the type of dish that fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma as it bakes, making it a perfect choice for lazy weekend mornings or holiday brunches. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for a perfect golden crust.
- In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Stir and break it apart until it’s browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to drain the excess fat to keep your casserole from being too greasy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well combined. You should have a creamy and fragrant mixture.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and layer it with the cubed bread, the cooked sausage, bell peppers if you’re using them, and finally, the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the delicious layers in the baking dish, ensuring every bit of bread gets some of that lovely eggy goodness.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor, let it sit overnight in the refrigerator.
- When you’re ready to bake, pop the casserole into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes. It’s done when it’s puffed up and golden brown on top — and believe me, it will smell heavenly!
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Top it off with some chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile — feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients! Try mixing in some diced tomatoes, jalapeños for a kick, or swapping the cheddar for a melty gouda or pepper jack cheese. Additionally, the longer you let it sit in the refrigerator before baking, the more the flavors will meld together.
Cooking Techniques
Perfecting the art of casserole-making is all about layering flavors and textures. Sautéing the sausage until it’s perfectly browned ensures a rich base for your dish. Letting the casserole rest in the refrigerator allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, resulting in a wonderfully custardy texture. Remember, baking it uncovered will give you that sought-after golden top!
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better when made the night before. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just slice it into portions and wrap tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad for a light brunch.
Conclusion
This Sausage and Egg Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is delicious to eat. Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or a casual weekend brunch, this dish is bound to bring smiles to your table. So gather your loved ones, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal together. Happy cooking!