Breakfast Casserole | Delicious and Easy Recipe for a Hearty Morning Meal
1. Introduction
If you’re looking for the perfect dish to serve a crowd or enjoy a comforting meal at home, then a Breakfast Casserole should be at the top of your list. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines everything you love about breakfast – eggs, cheese, meat, and veggies – all baked into a flavorful, hearty casserole that’s easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding the family, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The beauty of a breakfast casserole lies in its customizability. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, swap out ingredients based on dietary needs, and even prepare it ahead of time to save yourself some hassle. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste just as good the next day.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make a Breakfast Casserole from scratch, with step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting the dish, and a few variations to make it your own. By the end, you’ll have a dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and texture, making it a staple in your breakfast or brunch repertoire.
2. Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a look at the key ingredients that come together to create this delicious Breakfast Casserole:
Main Ingredients:
- Eggs (8 large)
Eggs are the base of any breakfast casserole, providing structure and protein. They give the casserole a fluffy and creamy texture when baked.
Tip: Use free-range or organic eggs for a richer flavor. - Sausage (1 lb, ground)
Ground sausage adds a savory and hearty element to the casserole. You can use pork sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter version.
Substitution: For a leaner option, try turkey sausage or veggie crumbles for a plant-based version. - Cheese (2 cups, shredded)
A blend of cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese adds creaminess and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The cheddar provides sharpness, while the mozzarella adds smoothness.
Tip: Freshly shredded cheese works best as it melts more smoothly. - Milk (1 cup)
Milk helps make the casserole light and fluffy. It blends with the eggs to create a smooth, creamy texture.
Substitution: Use half-and-half for a richer dish, or almond milk for a dairy-free version. - Bread (4-5 slices, cubed)
Cubed bread acts as a base, absorbing the egg mixture and creating a deliciously soft, custard-like texture. You can use white bread, whole wheat bread, or even croissants for a richer flavor.
Tip: Stale bread works best, as it holds up better during baking. - Bell Peppers (1, diced)
Fresh bell peppers add a sweet, crisp bite and a pop of color to the casserole. They balance out the richness of the eggs and sausage.
Substitution: You can swap bell peppers with onions, spinach, or mushrooms for different flavor profiles. - Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika)
Seasonings elevate the flavor of the casserole, ensuring it’s well-seasoned throughout. A little paprika adds a smoky note, while garlic powder and onion powder bring depth.
Tip: Adjust the spices based on your preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. - Butter (2 tbsp)
Butter adds richness and helps to grease the baking dish, making the casserole crisp on the edges.
Substitution: Use olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free alternative.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Breakfast Casserole is straightforward, and once you’ve prepped the ingredients, it’s just a matter of assembling everything and letting the oven work its magic.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add diced bell peppers (and any other veggies you’d like to add, such as onions or mushrooms). Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is fully combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, layer the cubed bread at the bottom. Top with the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables. Pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure everything is evenly covered. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the eggs are set in the center. You can insert a toothpick in the middle to check if it comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired.
4. Tips and Variations
Expert Tips:
- Use Stale Bread: If possible, use slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture better and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking. Overbaking can cause the eggs to become rubbery, so take it out as soon as the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Make Ahead: This casserole is perfect for prepping ahead of time. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven!
Variations:
- Meat Swaps: If you prefer a different protein, use bacon, ham, or turkey sausage instead of ground pork sausage.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage entirely and add more veggies like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes for a veggie-packed casserole.
- Creamy Version: For a richer casserole, add cream cheese or sour cream to the egg mixture for a creamy texture.
5. Serving Suggestions
This Breakfast Casserole is a complete meal on its own but can be paired with a variety of sides to make it even more satisfying:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh fruit salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Beverages: Pair with freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or a refreshing smoothie for a complete breakfast.
- For Brunch: Complement this dish with a side of bacon, sausage links, or avocado toast.
6. Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in the fridge to avoid condensation.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
7. Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, just bake it for a quick and easy breakfast.
- Best with Freshly Shredded Cheese: Shredding your own cheese will give you a creamier texture and better melt compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Use a 6-Quart Crock Pot: If you prefer to make this casserole in a slow cooker, use a 6-quart slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
8. Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Carbs | 15g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 16g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Cholesterol | 190mg |
| Calcium | 120mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
9. Recipe Card Summary
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 slices cubed bread
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook sausage and sauté vegetables.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings.
- Layer bread, sausage, and veggies in the baking dish.
- Pour egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool slightly, garnish, and serve.
Notes:
- Make ahead for convenience.
- Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd!
Nutrition:
Calories: 300 | Fat: 20g | Carbs: 15g | Protein: 16g
10. Final Thoughts or CONCLUSION
This Breakfast Casserole is sure to become a staple in your household. It’s customizable, easy to make, and packed with savory flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply need a quick and hearty breakfast, this dish has you covered.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!