Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Introduction
Imagine waking up to a kitchen filled with the warm, comforting scents of sizzling sausage, melting cheese, and fluffy eggs. You slowly open your eyes, stretching contentedly as the tantalizing aroma gently beckons you from your dreams. This is the magic of an Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole. A dish that, when shared with family and friends, transforms a simple morning into a heartfelt gathering—where laughter mingles with the sound of clinking forks. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for lazy weekends or festive brunches.

Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole, but here are the ones that truly touch the heart:

Effortless Preparation: Toss it together the night before! Simply wake up, pop it in the oven, and savor the delicious anticipation.
Family Favorite: This dish is a sure crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike. You’ll hear cheers around the breakfast table!
Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—swap sausage for bacon, or add in your favorite veggies.
Comforting Flavors: Each bite is filled with the warmth of home—the rich, savory tastes usher in a cozy feeling.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday morning or a casual weekend brunch, this casserole fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound breakfast sausage: Choose your favorite type; spicy or mild works well.
8 large eggs: The stars of the show, giving the casserole its fluffiness.
2 cups milk: Use whole milk for a rich flavor or almond milk for a lighter option.
4 cups cubed bread: Day-old bread works best; it absorbs all the deliciousness!
2 cups shredded cheese: Cheddar or a blend of cheeses adds that gooey goodness.
1 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick that balances the richness.
Optional veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or spinach can add a nutritional boost and extra flavor.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 8 hours (including overnight soaking)

This recipe is a perfect balance between quick prep and an overnight wait, making morning cooking a breeze!

How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful casserole:

Brown the Sausage: In a non-stick skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. As the sausage sizzles, the mouthwatering aroma will fill your kitchen.
Whisk the Eggs and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until combined and frothy.
Combine Ingredients: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring every piece of bread is soaked.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, creating a tender, custardy texture.
Bake the Casserole: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45 minutes until it is set and the top is golden brown. Your kitchen will be alive with mouthwatering scents.
Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You’ll notice how each piece holds together, filled with delicious layers of sausage, eggs, and cheese.

Tips and Creative Variations
Get creative with your Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole! Here are some twists to consider:

Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some grilled peppers, sautéed onions, or fresh spinach.
Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce will kick things up a notch.
Cheese Options: Switch it up with pepper jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a Mediterranean spin.

Serving Ideas
Imagine gathering around your table with loved ones, slices of the casserole beautifully arranged on plates. Pair your dish with fresh fruit, crispy hash browns, or a light salad. A hot cup of coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice completes the picture—an invitation to linger at the table and share stories.

Storing and Reheating
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any cool leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This casserole also freezes beautifully. Cut it into portions, wrap in plastic, and freeze for busy mornings. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes—or simply pop it in the microwave.

Pro Tips for Success

Use Day-Old Bread: This helps absorb the egg mixture better, resulting in an even more delicious casserole.
Let it Soak: Giving it a full overnight soak truly enhances the flavor and texture.
Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe? Yes! It freezes well. Be sure to wrap portions tightly for best results.
What’s the best substitute for sausage? Try using diced ham, turkey sausage, or even crumbled tempeh for a veggie option.
How do I make it lighter? Use egg whites and Greek yogurt instead of some milk for a healthier version.

Conclusion
Making an Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is more than just preparing a dish; it’s about creating memories and nurturing connections over a meal. This comforting recipe is sure to find a cherished spot in your home, becoming a go-to choice for family breakfasts and festive gatherings alike. So gather your loved ones, prepare this delightful casserole, and watch the smiles unfold—sharing good food is truly sharing love. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Contents

1 Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Wake up to the warm, comforting flavors of this Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole, perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekends.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 8 15

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage Choose your favorite type; spicy or mild works well.
8 large eggs The stars of the show, giving the casserole its fluffiness.
2 cups milk Use whole milk for a rich flavor or almond milk for a lighter option.
4 cups cubed bread Day-old bread works best; it absorbs all the deliciousness!
2 cups shredded cheese Cheddar or a blend of cheeses adds that gooey goodness.
1 teaspoon salt To enhance all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper A little kick that balances the richness.
to taste optional veggies (bell peppers, onions, spinach) Can add a nutritional boost and extra flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

Brown the sausage in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until combined and frothy.
In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight.

Baking

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole for 45 minutes until set and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for busy mornings. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.

Keyword Breakfast Casserole, Brunch Recipe, Comfort Food, Overnight Casserole, Sausage and Egg