Country Egg Casserole
Country Egg Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Combining savory sausage, cheesy goodness, and fluffy eggs, it offers a satisfying start to the day. Its make-ahead nature makes it ideal for busy mornings or entertaining guests with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toast the bread if desired.
- Layer the bread slices in a greased baking dish.
- Cook the sausage, crumble it, drain well, and sprinkle over the bread.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the sausage.
- Beat the eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Let the casserole stand overnight to absorb the flavors.
- Partially cover with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Can be frozen and reheated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using other types of bread like sourdough or whole grain for added flavor and texture. You can also substitute the sausage with cooked bacon or a vegetarian sausage for a different protein option. If you want to enhance the dish, add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. This dish can be made ahead of time and refrigerated overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Country Egg Casserole is perfect for brunch, paired with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a hearty breakfast, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausages. It also pairs beautifully with Overnight Eggs for a delicious breakfast spread. Top with fresh herbs or hot sauce for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Egg Casserole contains roughly 687 calories, with 21g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (53% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 855mg 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 the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, enhancing the flavors and texture. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
What can I substitute for the Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar cheese with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the casserole.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy mornings.
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).