Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole for an Easy Morning

Oh, there’s just something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of a hearty Breakfast Casserole baking in the oven, isn’t there? It’s a dish that promises warmth, comfort, and a delicious start to the day, all wrapped up in a golden-brown, cheesy embrace. For me, it embodies everything beautiful about homemade cooking – simple ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary and satisfying.

I remember my grandmother, with flour dusting her apron, always saying that the best meals were made with love and a little foresight. She’d often have something simmering on the stove or rising on the counter, ready for the next day’s delight. It was in her kitchen that I learned the joy of preparing dishes that bring people together, especially those that make busy mornings feel special.

This make-ahead breakfast casserole is a true lifesaver, especially when you’re dreaming of a relaxed weekend morning or hosting a bustling brunch. It’s wonderfully easy to assemble the night before, family-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd without any morning fuss. My best tip for success? Always ensure your bread is truly day-old for the best texture absorption!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this comforting dish starts with humble yet impactful ingredients. Think day-old bread, savory ground breakfast sausage, a vibrant mix of onion and bell pepper, and, of course, that irresistible sharp cheddar cheese, all bound together with a rich egg and milk mixture. This Hearty Sausage & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole is built on simple flavors that truly sing. You’ll find the full list of ingredients and precise measurements waiting for you in the recipe card below.

How to Make Breakfast Casserole

Whipping up this delightful breakfast casserole is wonderfully straightforward. You’ll begin by browning your sausage and sautéing the vegetables, then layering them with cubed day-old bread and plenty of shredded cheddar. A savory egg and milk mixture, seasoned with Dijon mustard and spices, is then poured over everything, allowing the bread to soak up all those delicious flavors overnight. A final bake in the morning transforms it into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

Hearty Sausage & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole

A savory and satisfying breakfast casserole packed with seasoned sausage, fluffy eggs, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender bread, perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole

• 6 cups day-old bread cubed (about 8-10 slices)
• 1 lb ground breakfast sausage
• 1/2 cup yellow onion finely chopped
• 1/2 cup bell pepper any color, finely chopped
• 12 large eggs
• 2 cups milk whole or 2%
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
• 2 tbsp green onions sliced, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large Skillet
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Distribute the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground breakfast sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
4. Spoon the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
6. Stir 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.
7. Carefully pour the egg and cheese mixture over the sausage, vegetables, and bread in the baking dish, ensuring the bread is thoroughly saturated.
8. For optimal results, or if preparing ahead, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight (up to 12 hours), to allow the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
9. Remove the plastic wrap (if refrigerated). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
10. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
11. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center, golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
12. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before baking, then bake as directed. This is perfect for stress-free holiday mornings or entertaining!
Variations: Customize by adding other cooked vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack blend. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat.

Pro Tips for Making This Breakfast Casserole

Over the years, I’ve learned a few little secrets that make this breakfast casserole truly shine, turning a simple dish into something unforgettable.

• My Secret Trick: For the absolute best texture, I always use genuine day-old bread. This ensures the bread soaks up all the eggy goodness without becoming soggy, giving your breakfast casserole that perfect, comforting consistency.
• Don’t rush the chill time! Letting your breakfast casserole sit in the fridge overnight is crucial. It allows all those incredible flavors from the sausage, cheese, and seasonings to meld beautifully, making for a much richer taste come morning.
• When browning your sausage and sautéing the vegetables, aim for a lovely golden-brown. This step builds a foundational layer of flavor that carries through the entire breakfast casserole. You want that depth of taste in every bite!
• Always use sharp cheddar cheese! The robust flavor of sharp cheddar stands up beautifully to the other hearty ingredients, adding a wonderful tang and creaminess that a milder cheese might miss in this breakfast casserole.

Fun Variations for Breakfast Casserole

One of the things I adore most about this hearty breakfast casserole is how wonderfully adaptable it is! It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your creative touch. Here are a few ideas that my friends and family absolutely love:

• Spice It Up: If you’re a fan of a little kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or even a diced jalapeño for a spicier breakfast casserole. My brother-in-law always asks for extra heat!
• Vegetable Medley: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper or add in other veggies you have on hand. Spinach, mushrooms, or even some diced zucchini would be lovely additions. Just make sure to sauté them briefly to remove excess moisture.
• Cheese Please: While sharp cheddar is a classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other cheeses! A mix of Monterey Jack and a touch of smoked gouda could add a wonderful complexity to your breakfast casserole.
• Meat Lover’s Dream: For a different twist, you could substitute the ground breakfast sausage with diced ham, crumbled bacon, or even a mix of all three!

What to Serve With Breakfast Casserole

This Hearty Sausage & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole is a satisfying meal all on its own, but a few simple additions can truly complete the picture, making it feel like a celebratory brunch!

I love serving slices of this delicious breakfast casserole alongside a vibrant fruit salad; the fresh sweetness provides a wonderful contrast to the savory richness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is another fantastic option, adding a refreshing element to the plate. For those who enjoy a warm beverage, a freshly brewed pot of coffee or a selection of herbal teas are always welcome. My personal favorite pairing? A tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice – it just brightens everything up!

How to Store Breakfast Casserole

Taking the time to prepare a delicious breakfast casserole means you’ll want to enjoy every last bite, and proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and flavorful.

Fridge Storage

Once your breakfast casserole has cooled completely, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is perfect for enjoying leftovers throughout the week!

Freezer Tips

For longer storage, cut the cooled breakfast casserole into individual servings. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. My tip? Label with the date so you always know when to enjoy your delicious homemade treat!

Reheating Methods

To reheat, simply pop individual slices in the microwave until warmed through, or for a crispier edge, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

Nutritional Benefits

This Hearty Sausage & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole offers more than just incredible flavor; it’s packed with nourishing ingredients. Thanks to the eggs and sausage, it’s a fantastic source of protein, helping you feel full and energized. The vegetables add a touch of fiber and essential vitamins, making this breakfast casserole a comforting treat that’s both satisfying and offers good sustenance.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I prepare this breakfast casserole the night before?
Absolutely! This is designed as a make-ahead breakfast casserole. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.

Faq 2

What kind of bread works best for this breakfast casserole?
Day-old bread is ideal because it’s slightly drier and will absorb the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy, ensuring a delightful texture in your finished breakfast casserole.

Faq 3

Can I use other types of meat in this breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can! Diced ham, crumbled bacon, or even a vegetarian sausage substitute would work wonderfully. Feel free to customize your breakfast casserole to your family’s preferences.

Faq 4

How do I know when the breakfast casserole is fully cooked?
Your breakfast casserole is ready when it’s golden brown on top, puffed up, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal to bring people together, and this Hearty Sausage & Cheddar Breakfast Casserole truly embodies that spirit. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with joy, making mornings feel a little more special, even on the busiest days. I hope you’ll embrace the ease and deliciousness of this make-ahead recipe, creating not just a wonderful meal, but cherished memories around your table. Happy baking, my dears!