Gretchen Fayhey'S Quick Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring layers of buttered bread, sausage, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for weekend brunch or family gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying portions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a buttered 9 x 13-inch baking dish with buttered bread slices.
- Spread cooked and drained sausage over the bread.
- Add grated cheese evenly over the sausage.
- Beat eggs and half and half together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked bacon to the casserole. You can substitute French bread for Italian if preferred. If Longhorn cheese isn't available, a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well. Ensure the bread is sufficiently buttered to prevent sogginess. For a lighter version, use low-fat half and half.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage links. Consider offering a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick. It's also great for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gretchen Fayhey'S Quick Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 85 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it the next day for a delicious breakfast that is ready in no time.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don't have half and half on hand, you can mix equal parts whole milk and heavy cream for a similar richness. Alternatively, using whole milk alone will yield a lighter casserole, but it may be less creamy. Adjust the cheese to maintain flavor.
Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
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).