Name: Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 9 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 slices bread, cubed; 1 pound chicken sausage; 8 large eggs; 1 (14 ounce) can evaporated milk; 1/2 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cloves (optional); 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 1 review

If you are searching for a hearty, crowd-pleasing brunch dish that brings comfort and convenience together, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. The perfect balance of savory chicken sausage, fluffy eggs soaked into soft bread, and melty cheddar cheese makes every bite a flavor-packed delight. It’s a recipe that you can prepare ahead and then pop into the oven, which means less hassle on busy mornings but all the reward of a warm, satisfying breakfast. Trust me, this casserole quickly becomes a favorite for family breakfasts, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a special start to the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white rectangular casserole dish filled with a golden baked casserole showing a melted cheese top layer that is a mix of yellow and light orange tones, sprinkled evenly with small chopped green chives. Beneath the cheese, you can see a textured layer with bits of browned sausage and pieces of cooked potatoes, giving some bumpy and crispy spots. The dish rests on a striped cloth with dark lines on a white marbled surface. Nearby, there are a few stacked light gray plates with silver forks and a small bunch of fresh green chives on the side. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. These straightforward ingredients each play a vital role in creating the layers of texture and rich flavor that make this dish so irresistible. From the soft cubed bread that forms the base to the creamy cheese topping, every component adds depth and comfort in every bite.

6 slices bread (cubed): Acts as the hearty, absorbent base that soaks up all the custardy goodness.
1 pound chicken sausage: Provides savory and slightly spiced protein that complements the creamy eggs.
8 large eggs: The binding agent that holds everything together with a rich, fluffy texture.
1 (14 ounce) can evaporated milk: Adds a creamy, slightly sweet richness without watering down the casserole.
1/2 cup milk: Lightens the custard mixture while keeping it silky smooth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors for a perfectly balanced taste.
1/4 teaspoon cloves (optional): Adds a subtle warm spice for a hint of complexity.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: Gives a gentle kick that lifts the flavor profile.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for a golden, gooey, irresistible finish.

How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Layer

Start by spreading the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This will create a sturdy yet soft base that will soak up the egg mixture and sausage juices as it bakes, ensuring every bite is flavorful and tender.

Step 2: Cook and Spread the Sausage

Cook your chicken sausage thoroughly and then spoon it evenly over the bread layer. The sausage adds savory protein and a wonderful depth of flavor, turning this dish into a filling meal.

Step 3: Mix the Custard

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, regular milk, salt, cloves (if using), and pepper until well combined. This custard mixture will soak into the bread cubes and sausage, creating a rich, creamy texture throughout the casserole that makes it so satisfying.

Step 4: Combine and Refrigerate

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and sausage layers, making sure everything is evenly saturated. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, then cover and refrigerate the entire dish overnight. This step allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, making the casserole incredibly tender and flavorful when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

The next morning, preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares, which helps it hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

A white rectangular dish filled with two layers: the bottom layer is made of small chunks of light brown cooked sausage with a crumbly texture, while the top layer consists of irregular pieces of soft white bread with crusts of golden brown, scattered across evenly. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, surrounded by a carton of brown eggs at the top left, some green chives to the right, a whisk with a wooden handle at the bottom left, cracked eggshells near the bottom right, and a bowl with raw eggs beside it photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each slice. For an extra touch, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce makes this dish even more inviting and flavorful.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. Consider a simple fruit salad, crisp green salad, or roasted potatoes to complement the rich, cheesy casserole without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming touch at brunch gatherings, or lay out a toppings bar with sliced avocado, salsa, and fresh veggies for a fun, build-your-own breakfast experience that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. Frozen leftovers will keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to maintain the crispiness of the cheese topping. Alternatively, microwave slices for 1-2 minutes for a quicker option, although the texture will be softer.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage in this casserole?

Absolutely! While chicken sausage keeps this recipe lighter and flavorful, you can substitute with pork, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?

Refrigerating overnight is highly recommended because it allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture fully, resulting in a softer and more cohesive casserole. However, if you’re short on time, you can bake immediately, but texture might be slightly different.

Can I add vegetables to the Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe?

Yes! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can add flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture before layering in the casserole.

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?

If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute with an equal amount of whole milk or half-and-half, but the casserole might be a bit less creamy.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done baking when the center feels set to the touch and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The top cheese should be golden and bubbling for the perfect finish.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly delightful about a breakfast dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe is one of those treasures you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s simple to prep, satisfying to eat, and versatile enough to become your go-to for mornings that call for something special. I hope you give it a try soon — your breakfast table is about to get a whole lot tastier!