Breakfast Made Beautiful(Make This The Night Before)
A hearty overnight breakfast casserole featuring layers of bread, sausage, and cheese, soaking in a milk and egg mixture for a flavorful start to the day. Perfect for weekend brunches or family gatherings, this make-ahead dish offers convenience and comforting flavors that delight everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a large oblong casserole dish with oleo.
- Trim crust from slices of bread and butter one side only.
- Arrange slices, buttered side up, to completely cover the bottom of the dish.
- Cover the bread slices with half of the cooked sausage.
- Lay slices of cheese over the sausage.
- Repeat the layers with remaining bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Beat eggs and milk together and pour over the assembled layers.
- Cover the casserole and refrigerate overnight.
- Next morning, let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle bacon bits over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the egg mixture. You can substitute the sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try replacing the sausage with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Using whole grain bread adds extra fiber and flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit to balance the richness. For a hearty breakfast, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or hash browns. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Made Beautiful(Make This The Night Before) contains roughly 805 calories, with 14g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 851mg per serving (37% 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 in advance?
Yes, this casserole is designed to be made the night before. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy breakfast the next morning.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Sliced bread like white, whole grain, or sourdough works well. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture. For a twist, consider using croissants or brioche for a richer flavor.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
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).