Sausage Egg Cheese Casserole

Breakfast casserole is my go to dish when I need to feed a crowd with something comforting and filling This recipe brings together soft cubes of bread savory sausage fluffy eggs and sharp cheddar cheese to make a morning meal everyone raves about There is nothing better to bring to a family brunch or serve up for a holiday morning

Every time I bake this it disappears fast I first served this to my entire extended family for a reunion breakfast and now my friends ask for it every year at our holiday get together

Ingredients

• Eggs: provide structure creaminess and protein Opt for fresh local eggs for best flavor
• Milk: brings moisture binds everything together Use whole milk for richness
• Kosher salt: seasons the dish evenly Larger flakes make it easier not to overdo it
• Cheddar cheese: adds gooey sharpness A block you grate yourself will melt better than pre shredded
• Bread cubes: soak up the custard and keep the casserole tender Day old or slightly dried bread gives the best texture
• Sausage: brings savory spice and protein Choose your favorite breakfast sausage or go with a spicy variety if you want a kick

Step by Step Instructions

Brown the Sausage:

Crumble sausage in a large skillet over medium heat Stir frequently to break it up Cook until it is deeply browned and no longer pink Drain grease thoroughly to keep the casserole light

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

Crack all eggs into an extra large mixing bowl Beat them until well combined and frothy This helps distribute air for a fluffier casserole

Mix in Milk and Salt:

Pour in the milk and sprinkle in kosher salt Whisk for a full minute so the custard is smooth and creamy

Add Bread Cubes:

Cut bread into small even cubes Stir them gently into the egg mixture so each piece soaks up the liquid and softens slightly

Combine with Cheese and Sausage:

Add the shredded cheddar and drained sausage Give everything a thorough stir so cheese and sausage are evenly distributed throughout

Bake in the Pan:

Pour the mixture into a generously greased 13 by 18 inch pan Spread it evenly up to the edges Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 45 to 60 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center sets with a slight wobble

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Cheddar is my favorite part of this casserole I love watching it bubble up and brown around the edges My kids always fight for the cheesy corners and we all end up gathering around the kitchen island to sneak tastes right from the pan

Storage Tips

Leftovers hold up well covered in the refrigerator for three to four days Slice portions and reheat in the oven or a toaster oven for best texture You can also freeze slices tightly wrapped and reheat them in a slow oven for a quick breakfast

Ingredient Substitutions

Try using gluten free bread for sensitivities Swap in cooked bacon or plant based sausage if you prefer different protein Options like Swiss or pepper jack cheese give a different spin and spinach or sautéed peppers can get mixed in for extra flavor

Serving Suggestions

Cut the casserole into tidy squares for a brunch buffet Serve with fresh fruit a green salad or crispy hash browns on the side I sometimes add a dollop of salsa or a spoonful of chimichurri on top for added brightness

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Cultural and Historical Context

Breakfast casseroles are a classic across American brunch tables This is a variation on recipes that home cooks have used for decades because they are affordable convenient and perfect for group gatherings The bread and custard base is similar to a strata or savory bread pudding

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.

→ What type of bread works best?

Slightly dried or day-old sandwich bread works well. Crusty bread may add rustic texture if preferred.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Swap cheddar for Swiss, Monterey Jack, or a blend to suit your taste.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute cooked vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in place of sausage for a meatless option.

→ How do I know when it’s fully baked?

The center should be set and the top golden brown. Insert a knife to check for doneness; it should come out clean.