Breakfast Before Brunch Casserole
A savory breakfast casserole layered with sausage, bread, and cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for weekend brunch or family gatherings demanding hearty, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray or grease a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Trim crust off bread.
- Break the trimmed bread coarsely and line the dish with it.
- Brown sausage and drain.
- Layer sausage on top of the bread.
- Layer cheese on top of the sausage.
- Beat eggs with a fork.
- Mix eggs with milk, mustard, and a dash of Tabasco.
- Pour the egg mixture over the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 50 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of breakfast sausages or adding sautéed onions and peppers. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with unsweetened almond milk or replace regular cheddar with a low-fat cheese. You can also add some fresh herbs like chives or parsley for an extra touch. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked sausage to simplify the process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a sweet treat like Mary'S Company Cheesecake for a delightful brunch spread. For a heartier breakfast, add crispy bacon or turkey sausage on the side.
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 about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just wrap tightly and use within 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Before Brunch Casserole contains roughly 608 calories, with 18g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 709mg per serving (31% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate. Just remember to bake it uncovered in the morning. This allows the top to become golden and slightly crispy, which enhances the texture and flavor.
What if I don't like cheddar cheese?
You can easily substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese will give a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and replacing it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You might also consider adding some black beans or tofu for protein. This variation still delivers on flavor while accommodating vegetarian diets.
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).