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Easy Make-Ahead Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe for Perfect Mornings

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A comforting and easy-to-make breakfast casserole combining sausage, eggs, and bread that can be prepared ahead and baked fresh in the morning. Perfect for busy or lazy mornings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser with simple ingredients and delicious flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups day-old bread cubes (French or sourdough recommended)
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 8 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • Optional: A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Cube the day-old bread into roughly 1-inch pieces. Toast lightly at 300°F for about 10 minutes if bread is very fresh.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined and slightly frothy.
  4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer half of the toasted bread cubes evenly in the dish. Sprinkle half the cooked sausage and half the shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining bread, sausage, and cheese.
  5. If using, sprinkle diced bell peppers and chopped green onions evenly over the top layers before pouring the custard.
  6. Slowly pour the egg custard over the casserole, pressing down gently on the bread to soak. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb.
  7. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours if making ahead.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove foil and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden and custard is set (knife inserted should come out clean).
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Browning the sausage adds flavor. Letting the custard soak before baking improves texture. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Freeze before baking for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, sausage casserole, make-ahead breakfast, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, savory breakfast, egg casserole

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/easy-make-ahead-sausage-breakfast-casserole-recipe-for-perfect-mornings/