Easy Breakfast Casserole
A hearty and versatile breakfast casserole combining sausage, bread, eggs, and cheese. Perfect for weekend brunch or family mornings, it offers comforting flavors with optional vegetables for added freshness. Make ahead and bake to serve a warm, satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the sausage and drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage into the bottom of a 9 by 13 inch pan.
- Tear the Italian bread into pieces and add to the pan.
- Beat the eggs with milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add vegetables such as mushrooms, onions, or peppers if desired.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 40 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage or adding herbs like thyme or oregano. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half the eggs with egg whites. You can also use day-old bread for better texture. For a different twist, try incorporating leftovers from other dishes or adding ingredients like spinach or cheese. This casserole is versatile and can be adjusted based on your preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the breakfast casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a green salad for a balanced meal. For a brunch spread, consider serving it alongside dishes like Lemon Ice Box Pie or American recipes for a delightful variety. Adding a side of crispy bacon or sausage links can enhance the experience.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave single portions for 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 258 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% 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, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Just follow the instructions up until baking, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I substitute for sausage?
If you're looking for a meat alternative, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, adding cooked bacon or ham can provide different flavors while keeping the dish hearty.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole by adding any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are great choices. Just be sure to sauté them first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
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).