There is no better way to start a busy morning than with a breakfast that is hearty, filling, and incredibly easy to assemble. This Simple Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole Breakfast is the ultimate morning savior, combining savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese into one comforting dish. It is the kind of recipe that tastes like a weekend brunch at a diner but requires minimal effort in your own kitchen. Whether you are feeding a hungry family before school or hosting a holiday gathering, this casserole delivers maximum flavor with hardly any cleanup.
The beauty of this dish lies in its “set it and forget it” nature. You can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together as the bread soaks up the rich egg custard, or bake it fresh in the morning. The savory punch of the sausage pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the egg mixture, while the cheese creates a golden, bubbly crust that is irresistible. It is a protein-packed meal that keeps everyone satisfied until lunch, eliminating the need for mid-morning snacks. Get ready to add this reliable, delicious bake to your permanent recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Egg Casserole
Perfect for Meal Prep
This casserole is designed for convenience. It reheats beautifully, meaning you can bake a large pan on Sunday and enjoy warm, homemade breakfast slices throughout the busy work week. It eliminates the morning chaos of trying to cook eggs to order while packing lunches and finding shoes. Simply slice, reheat in the microwave, and you have a hot, nutritious meal in seconds. It is also freezer-friendly, allowing you to stash away portions for those mornings when you have absolutely no time to cook.
Sausage Flavor Highlights
The star of this dish is undoubtedly the breakfast sausage. Whether you prefer a mild sage flavor, a spicy hot variety, or a sweet maple infusion, the sausage seasons the entire casserole. As it bakes, the savory juices from the meat permeate the bread and eggs, ensuring there are no bland bites. Combined with sharp cheddar cheese, it creates a classic flavor profile that appeals to both picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Equipment
- baking dish
- skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast sausage, ground
- 8 large Eggs
- 2 cups Milk
- 6 slices White bread, cubed
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Dry mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Brown sausage in a skillet. Drain fat.
- Place bread cubes in dish. Top with sausage and cheese.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and spices. Pour over dish.
- Bake 45-55 mins until set.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
To build the foundation of this casserole, you will need a pound of ground breakfast sausage. If you buy links, simply remove the casings before browning. You will also need large eggs, milk (whole milk works best for creaminess), and a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread cut into cubes. Sharp cheddar cheese provides the necessary tang and melt, while dry mustard and onion powder add depth to the egg mixture without overpowering the other ingredients.
Smart Substitutions
If you want a lighter version, turkey sausage is a fantastic substitute that cuts down on grease without sacrificing texture. You can also swap the bread for frozen hash browns or tater tots for a gluten-free friendly base (just check your sausage labels). For the cheese, Pepper Jack adds a wonderful kick, while Gruyère offers a nuttier, more sophisticated flavor suitable for a brunch party. Vegetable additions like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great, but sauté them first to remove excess water.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes; you want them large enough to hold their shape but small enough to absorb the liquid. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dry mustard until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy.
Cooking Phase
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon into small crumbles until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top the bread with the cooked sausage and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
The secret to a custard-like interior rather than a dry one is giving the bread time to soak. If you have the time, let the assembled casserole sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg and milk mixture, resulting in a soufflé-like texture. If you notice the top browning too quickly in the oven, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using bread that is too fresh and soft, as it can turn into mush. Day-old bread is ideal because it is drier and thirstier. Also, do not skip the resting period after baking. The casserole will be puffed up when it comes out of the oven and needs a few minutes to deflate and set structure; cutting into it too soon will cause it to fall apart on the plate.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Cut the casserole into neat squares and serve warm. A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of color that makes the dish look professionally made. For a festive touch, serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for those who like a little heat with their eggs.
Pairing Suggestions
Since the casserole is rich and savory, pair it with something fresh and acidic. A fruit salad with melons and berries is the perfect palate cleanser. Freshly squeezed orange juice or a light smoothie also balances the heaviness of the cheese and sausage.
Easy Crack Breakfast Casserole for Busy Mornings
Nutrition Facts Table
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Carbs | 15g | 5% |
| Fat | 24g | 37% |
| Cholesterol | 190mg | 63% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this is an excellent overnight casserole. Assemble it completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 60-90 seconds.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes. You can freeze the baked casserole. Wrap individual slices in foil and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat from frozen.
Conclusion
This Simple Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole Breakfast is more than just a recipe; it is a solution for stress-free mornings. It brings together the classic breakfast trifecta of eggs, meat, and cheese in a way that is comforting and satisfying. Whether you are planning a holiday brunch or just need a reliable meal prep option, this casserole never disappoints. Give it a try, and enjoy the extra time you save in the kitchen.
