Delicious Savory Breakfast Casserole with Sausage

Start your day on a flavorful note with our Savory Breakfast Casserole with Sausage. This hearty dish is perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or a satisfying weekday breakfast. Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and cheese, this breakfast casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make, providing a stress-free meal option for busy mornings.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
8 large eggs
2 cups milk
3 cups cubed bread (about 6 slices of day-old bread)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Oven mitts
Serving spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease and remove the sausage from the skillet. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, mixing well to combine.

Step 3: Whisk Eggs and Milk

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

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, evenly distribute the cubed bread as the base. Layer the sausage and vegetable mixture over the bread, followed by the whisked egg mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, ensuring it covers the mixture evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make cutting easier. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an added touch of color and flavor.

Variations

This breakfast casserole is versatile and can be customized to fit different tastes. Here are some delicious variations:

Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian version.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy twist.

Storage

If you have leftovers, this breakfast casserole stores well and can be enjoyed for days:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete breakfast experience, consider serving the casserole with:

Sliced avocado or guacamole for creaminess
Fresh fruit salad or berries for a sweet contrast
Toast with honey or butter
A side of yogurt garnished with granola
Freshly brewed coffee or fruit-infused water to hydrate

Conclusion

This Savory Breakfast Casserole with Sausage is an ideal blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many households. Whether enjoyed during a family brunch or as a simple meal prep option for the week, this casserole is sure to satisfy and energize your mornings. Get creative with the ingredients, and be sure to share this recipe with friends and family who will love this easy and hearty breakfast staple!