Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or feeding a crowd. With savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and a blend of cheese melted throughout, this casserole hits all the right notes. It’s simple to put together and bakes into a warm, satisfying meal that keeps everyone happy.
I love making this casserole because it saves me so much time—I can prepare it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and have a delicious breakfast ready without any fuss. The mix of sausage and eggs feels like a classic breakfast combo, but having it all baked together makes it so much easier to serve, especially when friends or family come over.
My favorite way to enjoy this dish is with a side of fresh fruit and some crusty toast. It’s great for holidays or a weekend brunch, and leftovers heat up really well too. If you’re looking for a fuss-free and filling breakfast that everyone will love, this casserole is a real winner in my book.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This gives the casserole its rich, meaty flavor. I like using mild sausage, but spicy works if you want a little kick. For a lighter option, try turkey sausage or plant-based sausage.
Eggs and Milk: Eggs make the casserole fluffy and give structure. Using whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can swap with almond or oat milk for dairy-free versions.
Bread Cubes: Day-old bread is best because it soaks up the egg mixture without getting soggy. White or French bread work great, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free bread too.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and melts nicely. You can switch to mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Bell Peppers and Onion: These add sweetness and crunch. Feel free to use whatever veggies you like, such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
How Do You Get the Casserole Light and Fluffy Instead of Dense?
The secret is in how you mix and bake your casserole. Follow these tips for the best texture:
- Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly until smooth to incorporate air, which helps make the casserole fluffy.
- Use day-old bread cubes so they soak the egg mixture well without turning mushy.
- Cook and drain the sausage well to avoid excess grease, which can make the dish heavy.
- Pour the mixture evenly into the baking dish to ensure it cooks uniformly.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F until the edges are golden and the center is set but still moist, about 45-50 minutes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for this casserole and heats evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to whisk eggs and combine all ingredients.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly for a fluffy texture.
- Skillet – for cooking and browning the sausage before adding to the casserole.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep your ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different savory flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a boost of green and freshness.
- Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamy, slightly spicy twist.
How to Make Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old white or French bread)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (red and/or green)
- ¼ cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare and roughly 45-50 minutes to bake. After baking, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes so it firms up a bit before serving. Overall, plan for about an hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Oven and Dish Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Break the sausage into small, bite-size pieces while cooking. Continue until it’s fully browned and cooked through, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease and set aside.
3. Mix Eggs and Other Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Add the bread cubes, cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well, making sure the bread starts soaking up some of the egg mixture.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour your mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Place in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set in the center and the top turns a nice golden brown.
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool and firm up a little, making it easier to cut. Sprinkle the top with dried or fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Slice and enjoy your comforting, fluffy sausage and egg casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting to speed up the process. Cook the sausage thoroughly before adding it to the casserole mix.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole the night before by mixing all ingredients and storing the dish covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it in the morning – you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also switch out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or any cheese you love to customize the flavor.
