Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole Recipe

This savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole is the perfect hearty dish to start your day. Combining flavorful breakfast sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs over a bed of bread, this classic casserole is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for brunch gatherings or make-ahead breakfasts, it offers a satisfying blend of taste and texture in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is everything you need in a comforting morning meal. It’s protein-packed, full of cheesy goodness, and easy to customize. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or planning your weekly meal prep, this dish delivers convenience without compromising flavor. You can assemble it the night before and simply bake it in the morning—making it perfect for holidays, family weekends, or busy weekdays.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Breakfast sausage

• Eggs

• Whole milk

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Bread (day-old or slightly toasted for best texture)

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Butter or oil (for greasing the baking dish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.

2. In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Cut the bread into cubes and spread them evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

4. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes.

5. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the bread and sausage.

6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.

7. Cover the casserole with foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for best results.

8. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden. Remove the foil for the last 10–15 minutes of baking for a crispier top.

9. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Resting time (optional): 30 minutes to overnight
Bake time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.

• Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for different flavors.

• Bread Alternatives: Try croissants, bagels, or sourdough for a unique twist.

• Add-ins: Incorporate diced onions, green onions, or herbs like chives and parsley for added flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Use spicy sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the egg mixture.

storage/reheating

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How far in advance can I make this casserole?

You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it in the morning for a fresh and flavorful dish.

Can I freeze the casserole before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What type of sausage works best?

Breakfast sausage (pork or turkey) works best, but you can use any fully cooked ground sausage you prefer.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, pre-shredded cheese is convenient and works fine, though freshly shredded cheese melts better.

What kind of bread should I use?

Day-old white bread, French bread, or sourdough are excellent choices. The slightly stale texture helps absorb the egg mixture better.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, onions, spinach, and mushrooms are all popular additions.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

It is not gluten-free as written, but you can use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The casserole is done when the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.

Can I use milk alternatives?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened and unflavored.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve with fresh fruit, hash browns, or a light green salad for a complete breakfast or brunch meal.

Conclusion

This savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole is a simple yet satisfying way to feed a group or prepare breakfast for the week. With its rich flavors, make-ahead convenience, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether for holidays or busy mornings, this casserole offers comfort and taste in every bite.