Sausage and Egg Casserole is one dish that never fails to impress. I remember the first time I made it for a Sunday brunch; my family raved about its comforting flavors and heartiness. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this casserole brings together the savory goodness of sausage, the fluffiness of eggs, and the gooey delight of melted cheese. Whether you’re hosting guests or meal prepping for a busy week, this is a recipe you’ll want in your repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole fresh from the oven, and this Sausage and Egg Casserole is no exception. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to assemble, making it perfect for those hectic mornings or relaxed weekends. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love, even the pickiest eaters.
“This casserole has become a staple for our Sunday brunches! It’s so easy to make, and I love that I can customize it with leftovers. Highly recommend!”
Step-by-Step Overview
This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps. Start by browning the sausage in a skillet while you whisk together eggs and milk in a bowl. Once everything is prepped, layer your cooked sausage (and any bread or veggies, if desired) in a greased baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over, sprinkle with cheese, and pop it in the oven. In about 30 to 35 minutes, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying dish ready to serve!
Gather These Items
1 pound sausage
6 eggs
1 cup milk
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 cup bread cubes (optional)
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to swap in turkey sausage for a leaner option, or use a dairy-free milk and cheese if needed—this recipe is versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and fluffy.
- Grease a baking dish and layer the cooked sausage at the bottom. If you’re using, add the bread cubes and mixed vegetables next.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the dish, then sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot straight from the oven, and consider accompanying it with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance out the meal. A dollop of salsa or avocado slices can elevate the flavors, while a side of crispy bacon never goes amiss. For beverages, freshly squeezed orange juice or a hot cup of coffee pairs nicely!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Once you’ve enjoyed your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep well for up to 4 days. For longer-lasting storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When reheating, the best method is to warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Tips for Success
- Always brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked to ensure that each bite is flavorful.
- If you want a lighter version, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using low-fat milk.
- Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before cutting will help it hold its shape better when serving.
Creative Twists
Get playful with this recipe by adding different spices or mix-ins! Consider incorporating cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You could also swap the cheese for pepper jack or feta for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
From start to finish, including baking time, you can expect it to take about an hour.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use a mixture of your favorite veggies and perhaps some black beans or mushrooms for added protein.
With a few simple steps and tasty ingredients, this Sausage and Egg Casserole is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Enjoy the comforting flavors and happy cooking!
Sausage and Egg Casserole
A crowded-pleaser casserole that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, perfect for brunch or family breakfast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free bread)
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 cup bread cubes (optional)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and fluffy.
- Grease a baking dish and layer the cooked sausage at the bottom. If you’re using, add the bread cubes and mixed vegetables next.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the dish, then sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole is versatile; feel free to swap in turkey sausage or use a dairy-free option. Adding different spices or vegetables can enhance the flavor.