Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish packed with sausage, broccoli, and bread, perfect for busy mornings or entertaining guests. Its savory flavors and convenient preparation make it a crowd-pleaser, suitable for breakfast or brunch gatherings that require minimal morning effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Brown the sausage and drain excess fat.
- Add bread crumbs, chopped broccoli, drained mushrooms, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the sausage.
- Mix lightly to combine all ingredients.
- Spoon mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish or 2-quart casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine beaten eggs, milk, Miracle Whip, flour, dry mustard, dry basil leaves, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread mixture in the casserole dish.
- Cover and refrigerate for one hour or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour until set and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip for a tangy twist. If you want to add more veggies, bell peppers or spinach work well in this casserole. Make sure to let the casserole sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside a cup of coffee or a refreshing smoothie. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, making it a great alternative to traditional dishes like the Country Brunch Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Individual portions can also be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 1615 calories, with 44g protein, 272g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value), calcium (81% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (70% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1963mg per serving (85% 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, preparing the casserole the night before is a great option! Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making for a tastier breakfast.
What can I use instead of broccoli?
If you prefer a different vegetable, you can substitute the broccoli with cooked spinach, diced bell peppers, or even sautéed onions. Each option brings a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences or seasonal produce.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for 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).