This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a simple, hearty dish filled with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese that everyone loves. It’s a perfect mix of breakfast favorites all baked together into one warm, satisfying meal that’s great for any time of the day.
I like making this casserole when I have guests over or need a no-fuss breakfast for a busy morning. What I love most is how forgiving it is – you can add veggies like bell peppers or swap out the cheese for whatever you have on hand. Plus, it stays delicious when reheated, so leftovers make an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Serving it straight from the oven with a side of fresh fruit or toast always feels extra special to me, and I’ve found that it’s a real crowd-pleaser. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together, sharing smiles over a warm, comforting plate without any stress or extra time in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is a flavorful base. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based sausage crumbles.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs provide structure and fluffiness. Whole milk gives richness, but you can use 2% or even a dairy-free milk like almond or oat for different diets.
Bread Cubes: Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture nicely. Any sturdy bread works—white, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread for special diets.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and melts well. Feel free to mix in mozzarella for stretchiness or swap for pepper jack if you want a little kick.
Bell Peppers and Onion: These add color and a mild sweetness. You can switch to other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach based on preference or availability.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture and Even Baking in a Sausage and Egg Casserole?
Getting the right texture means balancing crispy edges with a soft, custardy center. Here’s how:
- Pre-cook sausage until browned, so it’s fully cooked and flavorful.
- Sauté veggies before adding to soften them and enhance their taste.
- Whisk eggs, milk, and baking powder thoroughly to create fluffiness.
- Mix bread cubes gently with the egg mixture to soak without breaking apart too much.
- Spread mixture evenly in the pan to promote uniform cooking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until set and golden, usually about 40-45 minutes. A little browning on top adds great flavor.
Letting it rest before slicing helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to serve.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – it’s just the right size for even baking and easy slicing.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – you’ll whisk eggs, milk, and spices together smoothly here.
- Whisk – helps combine ingredients well for a light, fluffy casserole.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring cooked sausage and folding in the bread cubes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky twist that you’ll love at brunch.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
- Try pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder or slightly spicy flavor.
- Mix in diced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to add earthiness and extra texture.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, casing removed
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old bread, such as white or sourdough)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including cooking the sausage and veggies and mixing everything together. Then bake it for 40-45 minutes until golden and set. After baking, allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook Sausage and Vegetables:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Break it into small crumbles while cooking until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until soft. Remove from heat.
3. Mix Eggs and Bread:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until combined.
Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and stir gently to soak the bread thoroughly.
4. Combine and Bake:
Fold in the cooked sausage, sautéed veggies, and shredded cheese into the bread and egg mixture.
Pour everything evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle dried parsley on top if desired.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is a lovely golden brown.
5. Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes to make slicing easier. Serve warm, paired nicely with fresh fruit or a simple salad.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I Make This Sausage and Egg Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it for about 45-50 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Customize the Vegetables or Cheese?
Definitely! Swap the bell peppers and onions for veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. You can also use your favorite cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend for a different flavor.
