Breakfast Squares
Hearty breakfast squares with sausage, cheese, and bread soaked in eggs and milk, perfect for a satisfying morning meal that can be prepared overnight for convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- The night before, cut bread slices into small cubes.
- Beat together eggs and milk.
- Add bread cubes to the egg mixture and allow to soak overnight.
- Cook sausage until browned and crumbled, then drain well.
- Lightly grease an 11 x 7-inch glass baking dish.
- Layer cooked sausage and grated cheese in the dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients and gently mix.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage or even turkey sausage as a leaner alternative. To make this a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. For a different twist, try adding herbs like chives or parsley to the egg mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These breakfast squares are perfect for brunch gatherings or as a hearty breakfast option during busy weekdays. Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with coffee or a fruit smoothie, making them a versatile choice for any morning. For a festive occasion, consider serving alongside dishes like Cream Of Beef Casserole to create a diverse spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual squares in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just wrap portions tightly and store for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Squares contains roughly 716 calories, with 20g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 980mg per serving (43% 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 these breakfast squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for overnight preparation. After assembling the dish, refrigerate it overnight, and bake it fresh in the morning. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. You can also freeze the assembled dish before baking for a quick breakfast option later.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
You can use any type of bread, but hearty breads like sourdough or whole grain add great texture and flavor. If you want a sweeter option, try brioche or challah. Just make sure to cut it into cubes to allow for even soaking in the egg mixture.
Can I add additional ingredients to customize the recipe?
Yes, feel free to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or different types of cheese. Spinach or kale can also make a nutritious addition. Just be mindful of the moisture level to ensure the squares set properly during baking.
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).