Breakfast Casserole
Start your day right with this hearty breakfast casserole, featuring layers of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs. Perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines comforting flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sausage well and drain.
- Melt margarine in a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Tear bread into small pieces and sprinkle over melted margarine. Sprinkle drained sausage over bread pieces.
- Sprinkle cheese over sausage.
- Beat eggs and mix in half and half cream, salt, and dry mustard.
- Pour egg mixture over the bread and sausage. Chill for 8 hours or overnight.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 40 to 50 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole grain bread or substituting the sausage with turkey sausage. You can also reduce the cheese for fewer calories. If you're short on time, you can skip the overnight chill and bake right away, but chilling allows the flavors to meld better. This breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings or meal prep. Try pairing it with a fresh fruit salad on the side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this breakfast casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait. For a complete breakfast, consider serving alongside pancakes or waffles, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a relaxed morning.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored 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 the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This makes a great quick breakfast option throughout the week!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 583 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 895mg per serving (39% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to develop. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don't have half and half on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts milk and cream. Alternatively, you can use whole milk for a lighter option, but the texture might be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free version, consider using almond milk and coconut cream.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your breakfast casserole. Sauté the veggies briefly before adding them to ensure they are tender. This makes a great addition for those looking to include more vegetables in their breakfast.
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).