Start your morning off right with my Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole! This dish combines hearty sausage and gooey cheese with simple ingredients you likely have at home. Perfect for a family breakfast or a brunch gathering, it satisfies everyone’s taste. Follow my easy step-by-step guide and enjoy a warm, filling meal that’s both delicious and simple to make. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– Breakfast sausage options: You can choose mild or spicy sausage. I often use Italian sausage for a great flavor twist.
– Types of cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for richness. You can also try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste.
– Vegetables and seasonings: Bell peppers add color and crunch. Onions give sweetness. Garlic powder and thyme bring warmth and depth.
Pantry Staples
– Bread options for the base: I prefer day-old bread, like French or sourdough. This bread holds up well in the casserole.
– Common spices and herbs: Salt and pepper are essential. Other spices like paprika or onion powder can add a nice touch.
Suggested Garnishes
– Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or chives brighten up the dish. They add a fresh taste as well.
– Hot sauce and condiments: Offer hot sauce for those who enjoy heat. Ketchup or salsa can also complement the flavors well.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Prepping the baking dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using non-stick spray or butter. This helps to prevent sticking and makes serving easier.
Cooking the sausage
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add 1 pound of breakfast sausage. Cook until it is browned and fully cooked. As it cooks, break it into small crumbles. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Mixing the Casserole
Combining the egg mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined and smooth.
Layering ingredients
In your greased baking dish, spread 4 cups of cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Then, layer the cooked sausage on top. Add 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 1 cup of diced onion. Finally, pour the egg mixture over the layers. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak up the egg. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and finish with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Baking the Casserole
Oven settings
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Cooking time and visual cues
Bake for about 35-40 minutes. The casserole should puff up, be set in the center, and turn golden brown on top. Once it looks perfect, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Savory Breakfast Sausage and Cheese Casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Recipe
To make your savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole even better, focus on even cooking. I recommend cutting your bread into uniform cubes. This helps every piece soak up the egg mixture. For the sausage, cook it until it’s golden brown. This adds flavor and prevents any raw spots.
Adjusting flavors to taste is key. If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sausage. If you prefer a milder dish, stick with mild sausage. Taste the egg mixture before you pour it over the bread. This way, you can balance the salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this casserole, think about ideal side dishes. Fresh fruit or a light salad pairs well. They add a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. For gatherings, cut the casserole into small squares. This makes it easy for guests to grab a piece.
Consider portioning for larger groups. This recipe serves eight, but you can double it for a crowd. Just use a larger baking dish and adjust your cooking time.
Cooking Tools
You’ll need some essential kitchen tools for this recipe. A large skillet is great for cooking the sausage. A mixing bowl helps combine the egg mixture smoothly. You’ll also want a whisk to blend the eggs and milk well.
For bakeware, a 9×13-inch baking dish works best. It allows even cooking and browning. Non-stick spray or butter is also needed to grease the dish. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
Try out these tips to elevate your savory breakfast sausage and cheese casserole!
