Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, delicious dish that combines crispy bread, melty cheese, savory sausage, and a rich egg mixture into one comforting bake. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast, this casserole is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The layers of cheese and sausage provide a satisfying richness, while the eggs and milk create a creamy, custard-like texture. Whether served on its own or with a side of fresh fruit, this breakfast casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add your favorite veggies or adjust the sausage and cheese for a customized version of this tasty dish.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bread
• 12 slices of cheese
• 6 slices of sausage
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup of milk
• 100 grams of cheese (shredded, for topping)

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread and Sausage:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Lay the slices of bread flat in a greased baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
• Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Slice the sausage into smaller pieces and set aside.

2. Layer the Ingredients:

• Place 2 slices of cheese on top of each slice of bread.
• Scatter the cooked sausage pieces evenly over the cheese-covered bread.
• Add another layer of cheese slices on top of the sausage.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and milk until well combined.
• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, cheese, and sausage layers in the baking dish, ensuring everything is soaked well.

4. Add the Topping:

• Sprinkle the shredded 100 grams of cheese over the top of the casserole for a golden, melty finish.

5. Bake the Casserole:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of fruit: Fresh fruit like berries, orange slices, or a fruit salad complements the richness of the casserole.
• Top with hot sauce or ketchup: For a bit of extra flavor, drizzle some hot sauce or a dollop of ketchup over the casserole before serving.
• Serve with a green salad: A light side salad with greens and a vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of the casserole.

Tips

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the casserole for added color and nutrition.
• Use any bread: If you don’t have regular bread slices, you can use any bread you prefer, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or even a baguette for extra texture.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture or use spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate overnight, then bake it the next morning.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian version: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free alternative.
• Different cheese: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss for a variety of flavors.
• Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme over the casserole for added freshness and flavor.
• Add bacon: If you’re a bacon lover, crispy bacon pieces can be swapped in for sausage.

Conclusion

Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a filling breakfast or brunch. The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and rich eggs baked to golden perfection is a satisfying way to start your day. It’s easy to make, versatile, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a hearty meal, this casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe for busy mornings or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of bread? Yes, you can use any type of bread, including whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche for a richer flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it in the morning.

3. Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Absolutely! You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes to make the casserole more nutritious and flavorful.

4. Can I use different kinds of cheese? Yes, feel free to mix up the cheeses. Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or even a bit of Parmesan all work well in this recipe.

5. How do I store leftovers? Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.