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Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, savory, and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Made with breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, shredded cheese, and bread cubes, this casserole is assembled the night before and baked in the morning for a satisfying, flavorful breakfast that feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or your choice)
  • 6 cups bread cubes (day-old bread recommended; substitute gluten-free bread if needed)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Herbs and Add-ins

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped
  • Additional veggies such as bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes (optional)
  • Spices like jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce (optional for heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage: Start by browning your breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles with a spatula and cook until no longer pink and slightly crispy. Drain the cooked sausage on paper towels to remove excess grease and set aside to cool.
  2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and any fresh herbs or spices you’re using. This mixture will keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage and half of the shredded cheese over the bread. Layer the remaining bread cubes and sausage on top, then pour the egg mixture evenly over everything so it soaks into the bread. Finish by topping with the remaining cheese.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture and the flavors to meld together.
  5. Bake in the Morning: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale or day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
  • Don’t overmix the egg mixture to keep the casserole light and fluffy.
  • Drain the cooked sausage thoroughly to avoid a soggy casserole.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
  • This casserole can be assembled days ahead and stored refrigerated before baking.
  • Leftovers keep airtight in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze well for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat covered in the oven or microwave with a small cup of water nearby to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight breakfast casserole, sausage casserole, make-ahead breakfast, savory breakfast bake, brunch recipe, easy breakfast casserole, gluten-free breakfast