Before Breakfast
A hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, eggs, bread, and cheese baked to perfection. Rich and flavorful, it suits weekend brunches or family gatherings, offering a satisfying start to the day with savory notes and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the sausage and drain off the fat.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl.
- Add milk, salt, and dry mustard to the eggs and mix well.
- Layer bread cubes, cooked sausage, and grated cheese in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Place the dish in a cold oven and set the temperature to 350°F.
- Bake for 45 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. If you're out of dry mustard, Dijon mustard can work as a substitute. You can also use any type of cheese you prefer; cheddar or Monterey Jack are great options. To save time, prepare the dish the night before and let it sit in the fridge overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is perfect for a brunch gathering and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra kick. For a complete breakfast, consider serving alongside breakfast meats or a refreshing smoothie. Explore more American recipes to complement this delicious breakfast option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes well; simply wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Before Breakfast contains roughly 738 calories, with 13g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1629mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble the layers, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed.
What types of bread work best for this recipe?
Stale or day-old bread is ideal as it absorbs the egg mixture better. You can use any type of bread, including white, whole wheat, or even croissants for a richer flavor. Just make sure to cube it into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute or a mixture of silken tofu and baking powder for a vegan version. However, the texture and flavor will differ slightly. If using a substitute, aim for the equivalent of 12 eggs in volume.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).