Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that brings together fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and just the right amount of cheese, all baked into a warm, comforting meal. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a weekend treat but is so straightforward you can make it any day of the week.
I love making this casserole because it’s almost like a one-pan breakfast that everyone in the family enjoys. I usually brown the sausage first to give it that extra flavor, then mix everything together and let the oven work its magic. It’s an easy way to have a filling breakfast or brunch without a lot of fuss.
One of my favorite things about this casserole is how well it reheats, which makes it perfect for busy mornings or when you want to prep ahead. I like serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad to keep things light and fresh. It’s one of those dishes that always disappears quickly, and I’m happy to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds great flavor and protein. Mild sausage keeps it gentle, while spicy gives a kick. If you prefer, use turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Eggs: They are the binder here, giving structure and softness. For a lighter dish, swap half the eggs with egg whites.
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but 2% works fine too. For dairy-free, try almond or oat milk, although it might affect texture slightly.
Cheese: Cheddar melts well and offers rich flavor. The optional feta or cream cheese adds a tangy twist; goat cheese is another good substitute.
Bread: Day-old or slightly toasted bread soaks up the eggs without turning mushy. You can try whole wheat or gluten-free bread if needed.
How Do You Make Sure the Sausage is Perfectly Cooked for the Casserole?
Cooking the sausage well is important because it adds flavor and texture to the dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sausage.
- Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks to get small, even pieces.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes until nicely browned and no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat for a less greasy casserole but keep some for flavor.
This step adds delicious browned bits that make the casserole tasty and satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to hold the casserole evenly and bake thoroughly.
- Large mixing bowl – for whisking eggs and mixing ingredients easily.
- Skillet or frying pan – to brown the sausage and bring out its flavor.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly for a uniform custard.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – to break up sausage and mix the casserole layers.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a smoky or meaty twist that’s just as tasty.
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach for a boost of color and veggies.
- Use pepper jack cheese to add a mild spicy flavor that warms up the dish.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy note when you want something heartier.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta or cream cheese (optional)
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly toasted works best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 40-45 minutes to bake. Include an additional 5-10 minutes for cooling before serving. So, plan for about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cook Sausage
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well with butter or non-stick spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if you want a lighter casserole.
2. Mix Eggs, Milk, and Bread
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until everything is combined smoothly. Add the cubed bread and toss gently, making sure all bread pieces soak up the egg mixture evenly.
3. Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the soaked bread mixture evenly into your baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over it. Next, add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and half of the optional feta or cream cheese over the sausage layer. Repeat by layering the remaining bread mixture on top, followed by the rest of the sausage, cheddar cheese, and feta or cream cheese.
4. Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and the top is beautifully golden brown. Take it out of the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes to make it easier to slice. Sprinkle with parsley for a fresh, colorful finish before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the sausage completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave, then cook as usual.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Bread?
If you prefer, try using cubed hash browns or cooked rice instead of bread for a different texture. Just make sure they’re well incorporated with the egg mixture before baking.
