Marcia'S Breakfast Casserole
Hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, cheese, and bread soaked in a rich egg and milk mixture, perfect for family brunches or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Generously butter a 9 x 12-inch glass dish.
- Mix and beat eggs and milk together.
- Add salt, pepper, and dry mustard to the egg mixture.
- Brown and drain the sausage.
- Squeeze 8 slices of bread to remove excess moisture.
- Place the bread slices on the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of sausage and shredded American cheese over the bread.
- Place the remaining 8 slices of bread on top.
- Add the remaining sausage and cheese layer.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even creamier texture, consider using whole milk instead of 2% or a blend of milk and cream. You can substitute the sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based version for a lighter dish. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked sausage to speed up preparation. Adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty breakfast casserole with fresh fruit or a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausages. For a festive touch, drizzle with hollandaise sauce or serve alongside Annie'S Chocolate Cream Pie for dessert. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marcia'S Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 577 calories, with 11g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% 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, this casserole is designed to be made ahead of time. After assembling it, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it a convenient option for busy mornings.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
While white bread is traditional, you can use whole grain, sourdough, or even croissants for added flavor. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just sauté them briefly before layering to ensure they cook through while baking.
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).