Shirley Mckenzie'S Breakfast Dish
Shirley Mckenzie's breakfast casserole is a hearty, savory dish featuring layers of buttered bread, cheese, and seasoned sausage, all baked to perfection with a custard of eggs and milk. Ideal for weekend brunches or special mornings, it combines comfort with satisfying flavors that please a crowd.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 4 slices of bread, butter side down, in an oblong baking dish.
- Place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread.
- Top each cheese slice with cooked sausage.
- Beat the eggs, milk, and salt together until well combined.
- Place the remaining 4 slices of bread, butter side up, over the sausage.
- Pour the egg mixture over all the layers in the dish.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella. If you want to reduce the fat content, you can substitute part of the sausage with turkey sausage. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition. Make sure to let the dish sit long enough in the fridge for the bread to absorb the egg mixture for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side for added flavor. It also complements well with coffee or fresh juice, making it a perfect choice for brunch gatherings or weekend breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley Mckenzie'S Breakfast Dish contains roughly 818 calories, with 13g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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, this dish is ideal for preparing the night before. After assembling it, simply cover it with foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures a delicious breakfast is ready to bake in the morning.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for regular bread, you can experiment with different types such as whole grain, sourdough, or even croissants for a richer taste. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the egg mixture.
What can I substitute for the sausage?
If you're looking for alternatives to loose sausage, you can use cooked bacon, diced ham, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your dietary preferences while still delivering on flavor.
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).