Easy Brunch Casserole
This easy brunch casserole combines savory sausage, cheesy croutons, and a creamy egg mixture, baked to perfection for a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch. Ideal for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead, it offers comfort food with a cheesy, meaty kick that appeals to all breakfast lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the croutons in a greased 9 x 13-inch metal pan.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the croutons.
- Brown the sausage and drain well, then place it on top of the cheese.
- Beat the eggs and mix with the mushroom soup, mustard, milk, and mushrooms if using.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage in the pan.
- Cover with foil and bake at 300°F for 1 1/2 hours.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before and refrigerated.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, try using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. If you don't have Longhorn cheese, cheddar or Monterey Jack make great substitutes. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Consider using whole grain croutons for added fiber, or even make your own by toasting bread cubes with seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is ideal for brunch gatherings and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing drink like a mimosa or a robust coffee. For a heartier meal, add crispy bacon or sausage links on the side. It also complements dishes such as Green Bean And Turkey Casserole for a well-rounded spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can also be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Brunch Casserole contains roughly 489 calories, with 14g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (122% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of chicken soup. This will maintain the creamy texture while altering the flavor slightly. You can also use a dairy-free alternative if you have dietary restrictions.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply replace the breakfast sausage with a plant-based sausage or skip it altogether and add more vegetables. Consider incorporating diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition, ensuring it remains hearty and satisfying.
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).