Sausage Cheese Bake
A hearty baked casserole combining spicy sausage, cheesy goodness, and savory bread cubes, topped with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for brunch or a comforting family dinner, this dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage until done, then crumble and drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, beaten eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, bread cubes, and Cheddar cheese.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate overnight to set.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole for 1 hour or until puffed and golden brown.
- Garnish with green pepper rings, fresh parsley sprigs, and cherry tomatoes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or incorporating sautéed onions and bell peppers into the mixture. If you don’t have dry mustard, Dijon mustard can be a suitable substitute. You can also swap out Cheddar for your favorite cheese, like Monterey Jack or Gouda, to create a different flavor profile. This dish is perfect for brunch or even as a hearty breakfast option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sausage Cheese Bake warm, garnished with fresh parsley sprigs and cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of Cool Summer Peas or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside fruit salad or crispy hash browns, making it a great option for brunch gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the whole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Cheese Bake contains roughly 911 calories, with 29g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (63% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the casserole a day in advance is actually recommended. After mixing the ingredients, simply cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even tastier dish when baked the next day.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of sausage such as turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, according to the sausage you choose.
What can I serve with this dish?
Sausage Cheese Bake pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with breakfast potatoes, a fresh fruit salad, or even a light yogurt parfait. For brunch, it complements dishes like Uncle Eddie'S Baked Beans or a refreshing green salad.
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).