Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole

Start your morning right with this easy Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole that’s packed with flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or meal prep for the week, this hearty casserole brings together savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole becomes a go-to comfort food that satisfies every time.

Ingredients List for Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole

Transform your kitchen into a breakfast haven with these carefully selected ingredients that create the perfect balance of flavors and textures:

Main Components:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (Italian or maple-flavored are great options)
• 12 large eggs, room temperature for optimal mixing
• 2 cups whole milk (or substitute with heavy cream for extra richness)
• 8 cups cubed day-old bread, preferably sourdough or French bread
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened and cubed

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

Smart Substitutions:

• Turkey sausage for a leaner option
• Almond milk for dairy-free needs
• Gluten-free bread for celiac-friendly version
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese to increase protein content.

Timing

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended for enhanced flavor melding)

Pro Tip: This recipe requires 8-12 hours of refrigeration when made ahead, making it perfect for overnight preparation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Foundation

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This temperature ensures even cooking without over-browning the top. Cube your day-old bread into 1-inch pieces – the slightly stale texture absorbs the egg mixture perfectly without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Create the Sausage Base

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the breakfast sausage, crumbling it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Add diced onions during the last 3 minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften and absorb the savory sausage flavors. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon for moisture.

Step 3: Build the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, dried mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. The secret to a fluffy casserole lies in thorough whisking – aim for at least 2 minutes to incorporate air and create a light texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Spread half the bread cubes in your prepared baking dish. Layer with the cooked sausage mixture, then add cubes of cream cheese evenly throughout. Top with remaining bread cubes, creating a rustic, layered appearance that ensures even distribution of flavors.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Magic

Sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, then slowly pour the egg mixture over everything. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure the liquid reaches all corners and the bread is adequately soaked.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating perfect doneness.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (based on 12 servings) provides:

• Calories: 385
• Protein: 22g (44% of daily recommended intake)
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Calcium: 280mg (28% daily value)
• Iron: 3.2mg (18% daily value)
• Vitamin B12: 1.8mcg (75% daily value)

Macro Breakdown: 23% carbs, 61% fat, 23% protein – ideal for sustained energy release throughout the morning.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform this indulgent Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole into a nutritious powerhouse with these creative modifications:

Protein Enhancements:

• Replace half the sausage with lean ground turkey or plant-based sausage
• Add 1/2 cup Greek yogurt to boost protein content by 30%
• Incorporate 1 cup cooked quinoa for complete amino acid profile

Vegetable Boosters:

• Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped bell peppers, or mushrooms
• Add 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean flair
• Include one cup of steamed broccoli to provide additional nutrients and fiber.

Dairy Alternatives:

• Use unsweetened almond milk and nutritional yeast for vegan option
• Substitute low-fat cottage cheese for cream cheese
• Try part-skim mozzarella and reduced-fat cheddar

Serving Suggestions with Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole

Elevate your breakfast casserole experience with these thoughtful accompaniments:

Fresh Additions:

• Serve with a fresh arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette
• Top individual portions with fresh salsa verde or pico de gallo
• Garnish with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning

Complementary Sides:

• Pair with roasted breakfast potatoes seasoned with rosemary
• Offer fresh fruit salad with mint and honey drizzle
• Include whole grain toast or English muffins for extra heartiness

Beverage Pairings:

• Freshly brewed coffee or dark roast for bold flavor contrast
• Fresh orange juice or cranberry juice for vitamin C boost
• Herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint for gentle morning start

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these frequent pitfalls to ensure Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole success every time:

Moisture Management:

• Never skip draining excess sausage fat – it creates greasy pools
• Avoid using fresh bread; day-old bread prevents soggy texture
• Avoid over-pouring the egg mixture; it should barely cover the ingredients

Temperature Control:

• Resist the urge to increase oven temperature for faster cooking
• Always use room temperature eggs for even mixing
• To make slicing easier, let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Preparation Timing:

• Don’t assemble more than 24 hours ahead – ingredients break down
• Avoid freezing assembled casserole; freeze components separately
• Never skip the foil covering during initial baking phase

Storing Tips for the Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Maximize freshness and flavor with these professional storage techniques:

Refrigeration Guidelines:

• Keep the covered dish in the fridge for up to four days.
• Portion into individual containers for grab-and-go breakfasts
• Reheat single servings in the microwave for 50-90 seconds

Freezing Instructions:

• Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil
• Freeze up to 3 months for optimal quality
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Make-Ahead Strategies:

• Prepare sausage mixture and store separately up to 2 days
• Cube the bread and keep it in an airtight container for same-day use
• Pre-shred cheeses and store in the refrigerator for quick assembly

Conclusion

This Sausage Egg and Cheese Casserole delivers restaurant-quality breakfast flavors with minimal effort, combining protein-rich ingredients in one satisfying dish. The make-ahead convenience transforms busy mornings into relaxed family time, while customizable ingredients accommodate various dietary preferences and nutritional goals.

Ready to revolutionize your breakfast routine? Give this recipe a try this weekend and see how simple ingredients can deliver amazing flavor. Share your creative variations in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your unique additions! Subscribe to our blog for more time-saving recipes and cooking tips that make every meal memorable.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole completely ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from cold.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole?

For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 60-90 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole covered in a 300°F oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Can I substitute different types of cheese?

Yes! Try Swiss and Gruyère for a sophisticated flavor, pepper jack for heat, or goat cheese and feta for tangy Mediterranean flair. Maintain the same total amount of cheese.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The center should be firm and not wobble when gently shaken. Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F.

Can I make this recipe in a smaller dish?

Certainly! Halve all ingredients and use an 8×8-inch baking dish. Reduce cooking time to 35-40 minutes and check for doneness with the same methods.

What vegetables work best in this casserole?

Pre-cooked vegetables work best to prevent excess moisture. Try sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted tomatoes. Add 1-2 cups maximum to maintain proper texture balance.