Wake-Up Casserole
A hearty overnight breakfast casserole packed with sausage, cheese, mushrooms, and seasoned eggs, perfect for brunch gatherings or family weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place croutons in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan. Top with cheese and drained mushroom pieces.
- Brown sausage and chopped onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat and spread over cheese layer.
- In a bowl, beat eggs with 2 cups milk, salt, pepper, and dry mustard until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and croutons in the pan.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup with 1/2 cup milk and spread on top of the casserole before baking.
- Bake in a 325°F oven for approximately 60 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh croutons or make your own by toasting bread cubes. If you prefer, substitute the sausage with turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter option. You can also try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor. Make sure to beat the egg mixture well to ensure even cooking. This casserole can be assembled a day ahead for added convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a side salad. You can also serve it alongside breakfast favorites such as bacon or pancakes for a hearty meal. For a delightful twist, consider serving it with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for added flavor. It’s a great make-ahead dish for gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Wake-Up Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 325°F oven for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wake-Up Casserole contains roughly 666 calories, with 29g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (81% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1834mg per serving (80% 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 make this casserole without sausage?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use a plant-based sausage alternative for added flavor and protein, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
Can I freeze Wake-Up Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. However, the texture may vary slightly after freezing.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a simple substitute using a roux with butter, flour, and milk, then adding sautéed mushrooms for flavor. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken or cream of celery soup can work as a substitute, providing a similar creamy texture.
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).