Mornings can be hectic, right? Between getting the kids out the door or squeezing in your own morning routine, breakfast often gets the short end of the stick. But what if I told you that breakfast could be easy, delicious, and made ahead of time? Enter the Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole.

This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s a lifesaver for those busy mornings or lazy brunches with loved ones. Plus, it’s packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese. It’s hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied and easy enough that even beginners can whip it up like a pro. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole checks all the boxes.

I still remember the first time I made this. It was for a holiday brunch, and I wanted something warm, filling, and make-ahead friendly. The smell of sausage sizzling in the pan and the aroma of garlic and onion wafting through the kitchen—it was pure magic. By the time it came out of the oven, golden brown and bubbling, the entire house was ready to dive in.

Now, let’s dive into making this casserole magic happen, step by step.

Prepping the Foundation

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s start with the basics: prepping your dish and cooking the sausage.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Trust me, this step ensures that your casserole comes out clean and easy when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Grab your favorite skillet, place it over medium heat, and toss in that one pound of breakfast sausage. Whether you’re a fan of mild or spicy, this step is all about bringing out those rich, savory flavors. Stir occasionally, breaking up the sausage into small crumbles as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.

Building Flavor with the Egg Mixture

Here’s where the magic starts to come together—the egg mixture. Think of it as the creamy, seasoned glue that binds all the ingredients into one cohesive (and delicious) dish.

Step 3: Whisk It Up
In a large mixing bowl, crack in eight large eggs. Whisk them until smooth, then add 2 cups of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. The combination of milk and cream creates a rich and velvety base that will soak into the bread beautifully.

Now, season things up. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Whisk everything together until well combined. You’ll already notice the irresistible aroma coming from this mixture—hinting at just how delicious the final casserole will be.

Assembling the Casserole

This step is where your dish starts to look like the casserole of your dreams. With just a few simple layers, you’ll be ready to pop it in the oven in no time.

Step 4: Layer the Bread and Sausage
Take 6 cups of cubed bread and spread it evenly across the greased baking dish. Using day-old bread or lightly toasted cubes works best because they soak up the egg mixture without turning soggy. Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes, making sure every bite is loaded with those savory morsels.

Step 5: Pour and Sprinkle
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage, ensuring every piece of bread gets soaked. Then, top it all off with a layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. This cheesy duo melts beautifully, creating that golden, bubbly topping we all love.

Into the Oven

Step 6: Bake It Right
Before you toss that casserole into the oven, make sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil. This helps trap the steam and ensures even cooking for a soft and fluffy interior. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.

After the first 30 minutes, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15–20 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the cheese on top will melt, bubble, and turn a perfect golden brown. To check if it’s done, give the center a gentle poke. The casserole should feel firm, and no egg mixture should wiggle its way to the surface.

Pro Tip: If you love an extra-crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn—it’s a quick way to elevate the texture and flavor.

Let It Rest

Once you’ve pulled your casserole out of the oven, resist the urge to dive in right away. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle, and the casserole will slice more cleanly when it’s time to serve.

Add the Finishing Touch

If you’re feeling fancy (or just want a pop of color), sprinkle some freshly chopped green onions over the top before serving. The bright, fresh flavor of the onions complements the richness of the dish perfectly.

Serving Suggestions:

Breakfast or Brunch Feast: Pair this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Meal Prep Win: Slice it into portions, pack them in airtight containers, and store them in the fridge for up to three days. A quick reheat in the microwave, and breakfast is ready in minutes!
Holiday Star: Serve this at your next holiday brunch. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is guaranteed to earn rave reviews from family and friends.

Tips for Success

Now that the casserole is done, here are a few tricks to ensure your dish is nothing short of amazing every time:

1. Choose the Right Bread:**
Day-old bread is your best friend for this recipe. It absorbs the egg mixture without getting mushy. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it in the oven before using.

2. Customize to Your Taste:
Don’t be afraid to swap or add ingredients. Love veggies? Throw in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Prefer a meatier dish? Add some crispy turkey bacon alongside the sausage.

3. Make It Ahead:
This casserole is perfect for prepping the night before. Follow all the steps up until baking, then cover the dish and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake as directed. This is a lifesaver for busy mornings or entertaining guests.

4. Cheese Lovers Unite:
Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack can add a unique flavor twist to your casserole.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this classic breakfast casserole is how versatile it is. Here are a few variations to inspire your next bake:

Veggie Delight: Skip the sausage and load up on sautéed veggies like zucchini, tomatoes, or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Southwestern Style: Add diced jalapeños, green chilies, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the egg mixture. Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack for a spicy twist.
Meat Lover’s Dream: Combine sausage, and turkey bacon for the ultimate protein-packed breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply pop it into the oven and bake as instructed. It’s a game-changer for holiday mornings or busy weekdays.

Q2: What type of bread works best?
Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the egg mixture without turning mushy. If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for 5–10 minutes before using. Rustic breads like French or sourdough work beautifully, but sandwich bread also does the trick.

Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. For pre-baked freezing, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the original baking instructions. For post-baked freezing, portion and wrap slices individually for quick, grab-and-go breakfasts.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating is simple. For single servings, microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes.

Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the sausage and add your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes can add a nice depth of flavor to the vegetarian version.

Q6: Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classics, feel free to experiment with Gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. A mix of cheeses can also elevate the dish.

Q7: How can I tell if the casserole is fully cooked?
The center of the casserole should feel firm and not jiggle when gently pressed. You can also insert a knife or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is done.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your ultimate guide to making the Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole! Whether you’re preparing it for a festive holiday brunch, meal-prepping for busy mornings, or just indulging in a weekend breakfast feast, this dish never fails to impress.

Its golden, cheesy crust and hearty, flavorful layers are guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table. The best part? You can customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Did you add a personal twist, like extra veggies or a new cheese combo? Drop a comment below and share your experience. And don’t forget to snap a photo of your masterpiece—I can’t wait to see your creations!

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, grab your casserole dish, and let this breakfast magic happen. Here’s to a delicious morning, made easy!

Classic Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole

Author: Mark's Recipe
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes1 hour 5 minutes

Print Recipe

Description

This classic breakfast casserole is a hearty and delicious dish, perfect for brunch gatherings or meal prep. Featuring savory sausage, fluffy eggs, creamy cheeses, and cubed bread soaked in a rich egg mixture, it’s a satisfying start to your day. Prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2️⃣ Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

3️⃣ Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:

Spread the cubed bread evenly across the greased baking dish.

Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread.

Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring all the bread is soaked.

Top with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

5️⃣ Bake the Casserole:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden and bubbly.

6️⃣ Serve:
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for a no-fuss breakfast.
Bread Tips: Slightly stale or toasted bread works best, as it holds up better to the egg mixture.
Customizations: Add sautéed veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes

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