Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

Imagine waking up to the rich, savory aroma of a bubbling Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole fresh from the oven. This hearty breakfast dish combines the perfect balance of protein-packed sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese for a morning meal that satisfies like no other. The Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole has become a weekend staple in countless homes for good reason – it’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and feeds a hungry crowd with minimal effort. You’ll learn how to create this comforting breakfast bake with just a few basic ingredients and helpful techniques that ensure perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole isn’t just another breakfast recipe – it’s a morning game-changer. First, the convenience factor is unbeatable: prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and simply pop it in the oven when you wake up. The savory sausage creates a robust flavor foundation while the eggs bake into a delicate, custardy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy, golden-brown top.

What makes this breakfast casserole stand out is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous food lovers, this dish can be customized to please everyone. The optional bread cubes add a wonderful textural element, soaking up the egg mixture and creating delightful pockets of softness amid the hearty sausage and vegetables.

For busy families, the make-ahead nature of this sausage egg bake means less morning stress and more quality time together. It’s also perfect for holiday brunches, providing a substantial main dish that pairs beautifully with lighter sides like fruit salad or roasted vegetables. The balance of protein and comforting ingredients will keep everyone satisfied until lunchtime.

Ingredients List for the Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

This breakfast casserole combines simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to create exceptional flavor. The sausage provides rich savory notes, while the eggs and milk create the perfect custardy base.

• 1 pound sausage (breakfast sausage, Italian, or spicy)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese blend)
• 2 cups bread cubes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is all about mastering a few key techniques. First, don’t skip browning the sausage thoroughly – this develops crucial flavor compounds that elevate the entire dish. Take the time to cook it until nicely caramelized with some crispy bits for textural contrast throughout the casserole.

For the egg mixture, room temperature eggs and milk will create a more uniform custard. If you’re using cold ingredients straight from the refrigerator, whisk them vigorously to incorporate more air, resulting in a fluffier texture when baked. The smoked paprika may seem like a small addition, but it adds a subtle depth that transforms the flavor profile from basic to extraordinary.

If you’re adding the optional bread cubes, slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs more of the egg mixture without becoming soggy. For a make-ahead version, assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold. Let the finished casserole rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting – this allows the eggs to set properly for clean, picture-perfect slices.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch (or 8×11-inch) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
Brown your sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Layer cooked sausage, vegetables (if using), shredded cheese in a greased baking dish. Top with optional bread cubes if using. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake
Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

The classic Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is delicious as is, but don’t be afraid to get creative with these popular variations:

For a Southwest twist, substitute pepper jack cheese for the cheddar, add a diced jalapeño, and mix in 1/2 cup of black beans and 1/2 cup of corn. Serve with sliced avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a Mexican-inspired breakfast that packs serious flavor. This spicy breakfast casserole version is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in the morning.

For a Mediterranean variation, use Italian sausage and add 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms, and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese. Sprinkle with fresh basil just before serving. The tangy tomatoes and salty feta create a sophisticated flavor profile that’s perfect for brunch with friends.

Make it keto-friendly by omitting the bread cubes and adding extra cheese and vegetables for bulk. This low-carb sausage egg bake still delivers on flavor while fitting special dietary needs.

Storage and Serving

The Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Once cooled, cut the casserole into portions and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

For serving, this versatile casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Create a complete brunch spread by serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad and crispy hash browns. For a lighter option, pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.

Transform leftovers into sandwiches by placing a square of reheated casserole between toasted English muffin halves for a hearty breakfast sandwich. Alternatively, crumble leftover casserole and use it as a filling for breakfast burritos with additional cheese and salsa for a completely new meal.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. Assemble everything as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator while the oven preheats, and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

What type of sausage works best?
Any ground sausage works well in this recipe. Breakfast sausage provides a traditional flavor, while Italian sausage adds herb notes. Spicy sausage creates a zesty kick. Choose based on your preference or what you have available.

Can I use milk alternatives?
Absolutely. Unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or even half-and-half can substitute for regular milk. The fat content will affect the richness, so whole milk or half-and-half creates the creamiest texture.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown. If it’s browning too quickly but not set in the middle, cover loosely with foil.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! This breakfast casserole is incredibly versatile. Try mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, or kale. Just make sure to sauté watery vegetables first to remove excess moisture that could make the casserole soggy.

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