Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and meaty flavor to the casserole.

Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth.

Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy flavor.

Bread: Gives the casserole a hearty and comforting texture.

To ensure your casserole has a fluffy texture, make sure to thoroughly whisk the eggs and milk together until they are fully combined and slightly frothy. This incorporates air into the mixture, which helps the casserole rise and become light and airy during baking. Additionally, letting the bread cubes soak in the egg mixture for a few minutes before baking allows them to absorb the flavors and moisture, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of breakfast sausage.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage provides a plant-based alternative while maintaining a similar texture and flavor.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes are ideal for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions and can provide a similar binding effect.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles, providing a similar consistency.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is another dairy-free option that adds a creamy texture to the casserole.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth of flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar spiciness with a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and provides a mild flavor that complements the casserole.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese is a dairy-free option that can mimic the texture and flavor of cheddar cheese.

• cubed bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: Gluten-free bread is suitable for those with gluten intolerance and can be used in the same way as regular bread.

• cubed bread - Substitute with hash browns: Hash browns add a different texture and flavor, making the casserole heartier and more filling.

• To store your breakfast sausage casserole, allow it to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Once cooled, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer individual portions into airtight containers for easy reheating.

• Place the covered dish or containers in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap the entire dish in a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.

• If you prefer, you can also freeze individual portions. Cut the casserole into serving sizes, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen casserole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove any plastic wrap and cover the casserole with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, you can also use the microwave. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

• For an extra crispy top, remove the aluminum foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating in the oven. This will help the cheese get bubbly and golden brown again.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover breakfast sausage casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy top, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole on a toaster oven tray, and heat for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

• For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to maintain moisture, cover with a lid, and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the air fryer basket, and heat for 10-15 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn’t overcook. This method will give you a nice, crispy top.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until it is set and golden brown.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, sausage, bread cubes, and cheese.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix the egg mixture thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the milk and shredded cheddar cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the salt and ground black pepper precisely.

• Baking dish: A greased dish to pour the mixture into before baking.

• Spatula: Used to stir the ingredients together and to scrape the mixture into the baking dish.

• Knife: To cube the bread slices.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cube the bread slices.

• Cooling rack: To let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Pre-cook sausage: Cook and crumble the sausage ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating.

Prep the night before: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning.

Use stale bread: Stale bread cubes absorb the egg mixture better and save you from having to dry fresh bread.

One-bowl mixing: Mix all ingredients in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.