Oh my goodness, let me tell you about breakfast casseroles! They’re like a warm hug in a dish, perfect for cozy mornings or when you’ve got a crowd to feed. This breakfast casserole is super versatile and can be customized to suit everyone’s taste. It’s loaded with fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, all nestled in soft bread. Seriously, it’s as easy to whip up as it is to enjoy, making it a go-to for brunch gatherings or lazy weekends. Plus, you can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning—talk about a win-win! You’re going to love how effortless and satisfying this dish is!
Ingredients List
- 8 slices of bread, cubed – I usually use a hearty white or whole grain for the best texture.
- 12 large eggs – Fresh eggs work wonders here, adding that rich flavor.
- 2 cups milk – Whole milk is my go-to for creaminess, but you can use any kind you prefer.
- 1 pound of sausage, cooked and crumbled – I love using breakfast sausage, but feel free to experiment!
- 2 cups shredded cheese – Cheddar is classic, but mix it up with your favorites!
- 1 teaspoon salt – Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Adds a nice kick!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – For that savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because who doesn’t love garlic?
How to Prepare Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Dish
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your breakfast casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly fluffy. While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!
Combining Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part! In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until everything’s well combined. This is where the magic starts! Once mixed, spread the cubed bread evenly in your greased dish. Then, pour that delicious egg mixture over the bread, making sure every piece gets soaked. Next, sprinkle the crumbled sausage and shredded cheese on top, creating a cheesy, meaty layer that’s simply irresistible. It’s all about those layers, and don’t be shy about it!
Baking the Casserole
Pop your dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no more jiggling! Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it, so you don’t burn your tongue on that tasty goodness.
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Each slice of this hearty breakfast casserole comes in at approximately 350 calories. You’ll also get about 20 grams of fat, with 8 grams being saturated fat. It packs a punch with 18 grams of protein, making it a filling way to start your day. There are 25 grams of carbs, along with 1 gram of fiber and 3 grams of sugar. Oh, and don’t forget the sodium—it’s around 600 milligrams per serving. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, so feel free to adjust based on your ingredient choices. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare – It comes together in just a few simple steps!
- Feeds a crowd – Perfect for brunch parties or family gatherings.
- Versatile with ingredients – Mix and match your favorite meats and cheeses.
- Great for meal prep – Make it ahead of time and just bake in the morning!
- Satisfying and hearty – A filling breakfast that keeps you energized all day.
Tips for Success
To ensure your breakfast casserole turns out perfectly, don’t skip greasing the baking dish—trust me, it makes all the difference! For a fluffier texture, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking before serving. This helps everything set nicely. And feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!
Variations
One of the best things about this breakfast casserole is how easily it adapts to your cravings! Swap out the sausage for crispy bacon or even diced ham for a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with cheeses—pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella gives a milder taste. And don’t forget about veggies! Throw in some sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which can be rare with this delicious breakfast casserole!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, just pop it in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer the oven, reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Either way, you’ll still get that warm, comforting goodness that makes this dish so special!
FAQ Section
Can I prepare this breakfast casserole the night before? Absolutely! Just assemble it the night before and cover it tightly in the fridge. In the morning, pop it in the oven directly—no need to let it sit out first!
What can I substitute for the sausage? You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even add cooked bacon or diced ham for a different flavor. Vegetarian sausage works well, too!
How can I serve this casserole? It’s delicious on its own, but you can pair it with fresh fruit, a side salad, or even some hot sauce for a little extra kick. Enjoy!
Print
Breakfast Casserole: 5 Comforting Variations to Try
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty breakfast casserole perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread.
- Add the cooked sausage and cheese on top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Use any cheese you prefer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: breakfast casserole
