Italian Brunch Casserole
A savory Italian-inspired brunch casserole combining sausage, vegetables, cheese, and bread, perfect for feeding a crowd and ideal for weekend gatherings or holiday brunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove and discard casings from sausage.
- Cook sausage in a large skillet, stirring until sausage crumbles and is no longer pink; drain.
- Add green onions, zucchini, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in roasted red bell peppers; drain and cool.
- Spread 4 cups of bread cubes in a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Top with half of the sausage mixture and half of the shredded cheese.
- Repeat with remaining bread, sausage mixture, and cheese.
- Whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
- Pour egg mixture over the layered bread and sausage.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours.
- Bake, covered, at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour or until bubbly and hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage, and substitute whole grain bread for the Italian bread. You can add spinach or kale for extra nutrients. If you want more flavor, incorporate Italian herbs like oregano or basil. This casserole can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge overnight, which enhances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Brunch Casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a cup of rich coffee or a refreshing mimosa for a delightful brunch experience. For more delicious ideas, browse more Italian recipes that complement this hearty dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Brunch Casserole contains roughly 409 calories, with 15g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1421mg per serving (62% 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 the casserole the night before?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. After assembling it, cover and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it convenient for a busy morning.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, try using low-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to add different flavors to 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).