Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole: An Amazing Ultimate Brunch Favorite
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a wonderful dish that elevates any brunch gathering. This casserole combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s the ultimate comfort food for those lazy weekend mornings or special celebrations. With its appealing presentation and incredible taste, this dish is bound to impress your family and friends. Imagine waking up to the tantalizing aroma of savory sausages sizzling in the oven, accompanied by hints of melting cheese. Each bite of this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is filled with rich flavors, making it a standout dish that everyone will adore. Whether you are hosting a brunch party or enjoying a quiet family breakfast, this casserole is a hassle-free way to provide a hearty meal for everyone. One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time and can be assembled the night before, making your brunch preparation stress-free. With just a few ingredients, you’ll find that this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also delights your taste buds. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole a must-try recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole. Here are some key highlights that make this dish so special:
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve a perfect result.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it the night before, saving time on busy mornings.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to substitute sausage types or add vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for brunches and gatherings, it can serve a large group without hassle.
- Comfort Food: This dish is filling and warming, perfect for various occasions.
- Kid-Friendly: Its cheesy and savory profile appeals to both kids and adults.
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a breeze and will take about 1 hour from start to finish. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:- Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5-10 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 slices of bread, cubed
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a straightforward process that results in a hearty meal. Follow these steps to create a wonderful brunch dish:- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Whisk Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bottom of the casserole dish. Layer cubed bread on top of the sausage.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the bread.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layers in the dish, making sure to cover everything evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Once cooked, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.
How to Serve
When it comes to serving Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole, consider the following to elevate your brunch experience:- Presentation: Cut the casserole into squares and serve on a beautiful platter for an inviting display.
- Accompaniments: Pair with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad to balance the savory flavors.
- Beverage Pairing: Consider serving with freshly squeezed orange juice, coffee, or mimosas to enhance the brunch vibe.
- Warmth: Serve while still warm for the best experience, allowing guests to enjoy the melty cheese and fluffy eggs.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sausage.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Recipe Variation
Feel free to get creative with your Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:- Veggie Delight: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Meaty Version: Mix in crumbled bacon or ham along with the sausage for a heartier dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb bread or substitute bread with sautéed cauliflower rice for a ketogenic-friendly version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftover casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, maintaining freshness.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, placing them in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Special Equipment
To prepare Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole, you will need the following tools:- Large skillet for cooking sausage
- Whisk for blending egg mixture
- 9×13 inch baking dish for baking
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife for cubing bread and chopping vegetables
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free bread, you can adapt this recipe to meet gluten-free dietary needs.
What sides go well with the casserole?
Accompany your casserole with fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a light green salad for a well-rounded brunch.
Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?
Absolutely, you can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or commercial egg replacers for a vegetarian option.
How can I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. You can test by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.