
If you love big brunch bakes and classic comfort food, this Grilled Cheese Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole is for you. Layers of gooey American cheese, crispy sausage, creamy eggs, and golden Texas toast make this the kind of breakfast people look forward to all week. It is warm, satisfying, and absolutely crowd-pleasing.
This recipe became my go-to for holiday mornings once I realized how happily everyone gathered in the kitchen while it baked. Now it is our signature sleepover breakfast.
Ingredients
- Pork breakfast sausage: adds savory flavor and pairs perfectly with eggs. Look for fresh ground sausage with minimal additives
- Large eggs: make the casserole rich and provide great texture. Try to use fresh eggs for best set and flavor
- Butter: creates delicious crispness on the bread. Choose high-quality unsalted butter
- Whole milk: ensures a consistently creamy custard. Full-fat milk gives the best mouthfeel
- Kosher salt and coarse black pepper: add simple seasoning and keep everything tasting balanced
- Ground mustard: brings a hint of brightness and savory depth
- Texas toast: delivers maximum crunch and substance. Pick up freshly sliced bakery bread if possible
- American cheese: melts beautifully for that classic grilled cheese pull. Deli-sliced cheese works best for even layering
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Sausage:
- Cook pork breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Stir and break up the sausage while it cooks for 4 to 5 minutes until nicely browned. Remove sausage and let the oil drain on a plate lined with a paper towel to keep the casserole from being greasy
- Scramble the Eggs:
- Add one tablespoon of butter to the same pan over medium heat. Whisk 10 eggs with a quarter cup of milk salt and pepper until smooth. Pour the mixture into the pan and gently scramble until the eggs are just barely set. Stop cooking early so they stay creamy through baking
- Assemble the Base Layer:
- Lightly spray a 9 x 13 baking dish. Arrange six slices of Texas toast in a single layer to cover the bottom. Place a slice of American cheese on each slice so every bite gets melted cheese
- Add Sausage and Eggs:
- Spread the cooked sausage over the bread and cheese layer followed by the scrambled eggs. Place another slice of cheese over the eggs for the classic grilled cheese richness
- Mix and Pour Custard:
- Whisk the remaining eight eggs with three quarters cup of milk and the ground mustard until completely combined. Gently pour this egg mixture over the entire casserole making sure it soaks evenly into the bread
- Top with Bread:
- Cover the top with the remaining slices of Texas toast. This gives you a crispy golden top just like a grilled cheese sandwich
- Brush with Butter and Bake:
- Melt the remaining three tablespoons of butter and brush it generously over the top layer of bread. Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 20 minutes so the top gets golden and slightly crispy

My favorite part is watching the bread turn perfectly golden and crisp. My son once asked for triple helpings at his birthday breakfast because it was so cheesy and fun to eat.
Storage Tips
Let any leftovers cool completely then cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. Heat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage wrap portions in foil freeze and thaw overnight before reheating in a hot oven
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese make fun swaps if you like more flavor or melt. If Texas toast is hard to find use any thick cut sandwich bread
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or fresh fruit for a full breakfast. Set out hot sauce or salsa for guests who love a little kick. For a sweet counterpoint offer berry preserves or maple syrup on the side

Cultural Background
This dish turns the classic American diner sandwich into a cozy family casserole. Inspired by both grilled cheese nights and weekend eggs and sausage breakfast traditions this breakfast bake brings everyone together around the table
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, other sturdy breads like French, sourdough, or brioche work well, though Texas toast offers the best thickness for soaking up the egg mixture.
- → What kind of cheese is best?
American cheese melts smoothly and adds creaminess, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone are great alternatives for different flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a quick breakfast option.
- → Can I substitute the sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage, bacon, or even a vegetarian sausage can replace the pork sausage as desired.
- → How do I keep the casserole from getting soggy?
Using hearty bread and not oversoaking ensures the right texture. Baking uncovered at the end helps crisp the top layer.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh fruit, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad are excellent accompaniments for a balanced meal.