Growing up, holiday mornings were always a whirlwind of excitement, but there was one constant: the comforting aroma of breakfast wafting through the house. My mom had her go-to casserole recipe, but the wait for it to bake felt like an eternity to my younger self. By the time it was finally ready, we were all ravenous. Fast forward to now, and I’ve found the perfect solution to that holiday morning dilemma: the Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole.
This casserole isn’t just convenient; it’s a lifesaver for busy mornings. Whether it’s Christmas, a birthday, or simply a Sunday brunch with friends, this dish is ready when you are. All the prep work is done the night before, leaving you with nothing more to do than pop it in the oven and savor the anticipation of a warm, hearty breakfast. It’s the ultimate blend of convenience and comfort, and trust me, your family will thank you.
Beyond its ease, this casserole holds a special place in my heart. It’s endlessly adaptable, meaning you can make it uniquely yours. Swap in your favorite cheeses, toss in some sautéed veggies, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s the kind of recipe that evolves with you, becoming a cherished tradition in its own right.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Stress-Free Mornings: With all the prep done ahead of time, you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast without the morning rush. Perfect for holidays or hosting brunch.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s hearty, flavorful, and filling.
- Customizable: From swapping the beef sausage for turkey ham or adding fresh vegetables, you can make this recipe your own.
- Simple Ingredients: No need to hunt for specialty items. This recipe relies on pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Balanced and Filling: With protein-packed eggs, savory sausage, and melty cheese, it’s a breakfast that keeps everyone satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 pound beef sausage, cooked and drained
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. - Layer the Ingredients
Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the dish. The bread acts as a base, soaking up the egg mixture and giving the casserole its structure. Next, sprinkle the cooked beef sausage over the bread, followed by the grated cheddar cheese. These layers create the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. - Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground mustard, salt, and a dash of pepper. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined, as this will evenly coat the casserole and bring it all together. - Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure everything is coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the bread to absorb the liquid and meld the flavors. - Bake the Casserole
The next morning, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the plastic wrap and place the casserole in the oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes. To prevent over-browning, cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncover for the remainder of the baking time. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. - Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Pair it with fresh fruit, a side of hash browns, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Bread Options: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best results. Fresh bread can become too mushy. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even leftover dinner rolls all work beautifully.
- Cheese Swaps: Try mixing cheeses like Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Add Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms add color, flavor, and nutrients to the dish.
- Make It Meatless: Substitute the beef sausage with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Bake Ahead: If mornings are still hectic, you can bake this the night before and reheat individual servings.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-55 minutes
- Total Time: 60-75 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Notes
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to ensure neat slices.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Approximate):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free bread, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
Serve it alongside fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, or a light salad for a balanced brunch spread.
Related Recipes
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:
Conclusion
This Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole is a game-changer for busy mornings, offering the perfect balance of ease, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply looking for a comforting breakfast to share with loved ones, this recipe delivers every time. The joy of waking up to a prepared meal that’s ready to bake is unparalleled, and it’s a tradition you’ll cherish for years to come. Give it a try, and let this dish become the highlight of your mornings!
Print
Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole: A Breakfast Favorite
Description
Growing up, holiday mornings were always a whirlwind of excitement, but there was one constant: the comforting aroma of breakfast wafting through the house. My mom had her go-to casserole recipe, but the wait for it to bake felt like an eternity to my younger self. By the time it was finally ready, we were all ravenous. Fast forward to now, and I’ve found the perfect solution to that holiday morning dilemma: the Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole.
This casserole isn’t just convenient; it’s a lifesaver for busy mornings. Whether it’s Christmas, a birthday, or simply a Sunday brunch with friends, this dish is ready when you are. All the prep work is done the night before, leaving you with nothing more to do than pop it in the oven and savor the anticipation of a warm, hearty breakfast. It’s the ultimate blend of convenience and comfort, and trust me, your family will thank you.
Beyond its ease, this casserole holds a special place in my heart. It’s endlessly adaptable, meaning you can make it uniquely yours. Swap in your favorite cheeses, toss in some sautéed veggies, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. It’s the kind of recipe that evolves with you, becoming a cherished tradition in its own right.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 pound beef sausage, cooked and drained
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. - Layer the Ingredients
Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the dish. The bread acts as a base, soaking up the egg mixture and giving the casserole its structure. Next, sprinkle the cooked beef sausage over the bread, followed by the grated cheddar cheese. These layers create the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. - Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground mustard, salt, and a dash of pepper. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined, as this will evenly coat the casserole and bring it all together. - Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure everything is coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial for allowing the bread to absorb the liquid and meld the flavors. - Bake the Casserole
The next morning, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove the plastic wrap and place the casserole in the oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes. To prevent over-browning, cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes, then uncover for the remainder of the baking time. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. - Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Pair it with fresh fruit, a side of hash browns, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to ensure neat slices.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the microwave or oven.