Quick Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch

If you’re searching for a dish that combines ease, heartiness, and crowd-pleasing flavor, this Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch is your new go-to. Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese, it delivers a warm and satisfying start to your day without fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this casserole comes together quickly and bakes into a comforting dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in minutes, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
• Heartwarming Flavor: The combination of sausage, eggs, and cheese creates a rich and hearty taste.
• Versatile Meal: Great for breakfast, brunch, or even a cozy dinner option.
• Feeds a Crowd: Easily adjustable portions make it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common kitchen staples that are easy to find and budget-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect textural and flavor balance. Fresh eggs provide fluffiness, sausage adds savory richness, and cheese delivers melty goodness, while bread soaks up the savory custard for a comforting finish.

• Sausage: Choose your favorite breakfast sausage for bold, savory flavor.
• Eggs: The backbone of the casserole, eggs bind everything and give it structure.
• Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture for a tender bake.
• Shredded cheese: Cheddar or a blend works perfectly to add gooey richness and a golden crust.
• Bread: Cubed day-old bread or a sturdy variety that soaks up the custard while maintaining texture.
• Onion and bell peppers: Optional but recommended to add sweetness and color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.

Variations for Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch

This sausage breakfast casserole is incredibly flexible, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have or dietary preferences. Customize with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or protein types for a dish that’s uniquely yours!

• Vegetarian option: Swap sausage for diced mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Cheese twist: Try feta, mozzarella, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
• Herb infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives can brighten the casserole.
• Low-carb version: Replace bread with cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.

How to Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sausage

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

If using onions or bell peppers, sauté them in the same skillet until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step deepens their flavor and blends beautifully with the sausage.

Step 3: Combine Eggs and Dairy

Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This mixture forms the custard base that binds the casserole, creating that soft yet structured texture everyone loves.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle cooked sausage and vegetables on top, then pour the egg mixture evenly over everything. Finish by sprinkling shredded cheese generously over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving for perfect slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch

• Use day-old bread: It holds liquid better than fresh bread, preventing sogginess.
• Don’t skip draining the sausage: Excess grease can make the casserole greasy and heavy.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
• Customize cheese blends: Mixing two cheeses can add depth and creaminess.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the night before and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.

How to Serve Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch

Garnishes

Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce also complements the savory sausage well.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside fresh fruit salad for a refreshing balance. Crispy bacon or breakfast potatoes also make excellent accompaniments to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into squares and serve on a colorful platter with small bowls of salsa, guacamole, or assorted mustards for a fun brunch spread. You can also serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the casserole moist and flavorful for easy meals later in the week.

Freezing

Wrap the casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm throughout. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning if reheating in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning for a convenient and stress-free brunch.

What type of sausage works best?

Any breakfast sausage, whether pork, turkey, or chicken, works wonderfully. Choose based on your preference and spice level desired.

Can I use gluten-free bread?

Yes, gluten-free bread can be substituted to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture if it’s sturdy enough to soak up the custard.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for prepping busy weekday breakfasts or lunches.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, or zucchini can all be added either raw or sautéed to boost nutrition and flavor diversity.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Breakfast Casserole for Brunch is a seriously satisfying way to kick off any day with hearty flavors and simple prep. Perfect for busy mornings, relaxing weekends, or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s a warm and welcoming dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your brunch rotation. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making this one again and again!

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