There’s something about the comfort of breakfast casseroles that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. I remember the first time I had a hearty sausage and egg casserole; it was at a friend’s house during a cozy weekend brunch. It was the kind of dish that made you lean back in your chair and smile, savoring every bite. The fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and gooey cheese were a perfect match, and I instantly knew I had to recreate it at home. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this simple yet delicious Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole filled with breakfast bliss!
Why you’ll love this recipe
Ah, the allure of a casserole! Easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy mornings. This recipe is a delightful blend of six basic ingredients that marry seamlessly in the oven, creating a dish that’s not just scrumptious but also practical. Think about it: your eggs and sausage come together effortlessly, bathing in a sea of melted cheddar that makes every forkful a dream.
You’ll find this casserole a lifesaver for holidays, family gatherings, or even just a Tuesday when you want something special for breakfast. It’s versatile! You can add your favorite veggies or use leftover ingredients lying in your fridge. Plus, if you’re short on time, this dish can be prepped ahead and simply popped in the oven when you’re ready. Who wouldn’t love waking up to that?
Key ingredients overview
Let’s break down the magic of this casserole ingredient by ingredient:
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Eggs: We’re using six large eggs, which are the stars of the show. They provide that fluffy, custardy base that binds everything together. Eggs are a powerhouse of protein, and they help keep you full longer—a great way to start your day!
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Milk: The half cup of milk adds creaminess and richness to the eggs. You could also use non-dairy milk if you’re looking for a lactose-free option.
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Salt and Black Pepper: Just a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper elevate the flavors. Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning!
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Cheddar Cheese: A cup of shredded cheddar brings that melty, gooey goodness to the dish. You can substitute it with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick.
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Breakfast Sausage: The heart of this casserole! One pound of cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage infuses savory flavors. Feel free to use turkey sausage or a vegetarian alternative if you’re looking to lighten it up.
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Bell Peppers and Onions (optional): These veggies are my secret weapon for adding flavor and a splash of color. Whether you go for vibrant bell peppers or sweet onions, they add an additional layer of taste and nutrition.
Step-by-step instructions overview
Alright, let’s get our hands a bit messy! Here’s how to transform these ingredients into a breakfast masterpiece:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let that oven work its magic while you prepare everything.
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this will ensure that your casserole doesn’t cling to the sides like it’s trying to play hide and seek.
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Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until everything’s well combined and looking friendly.
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Stir in the cooked sausage and a generous amount of that shredded cheddar. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor lives!
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If you’re using them, toss in the bell peppers and onions. Feel free to mix and match any veggies you have on hand; this is where you can get creative!
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Pour the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Smooth it out; you’re looking for an even distribution of deliciousness.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until those eggs are set and the top is golden. You’ll know it’s done when it puffs up a little and a toothpick comes out clean.
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Let it cool for about 5 minutes before diving in. This is the hardest part, I know!
Best way to enjoy it
Now, let’s talk about how to serve this beauty! You can enjoy it warm straight out of the oven or let it cool slightly for an easy breakfast grab. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon for that classic breakfast feel. Want to jazz it up? A dollop of hot sauce or salsa on top adds a fantastic kick—trust me on this!
When slicing, a sharp knife works best, and feel free to double the recipe if you’ve got a crowd. This casserole holds well, making it the perfect dish to set out buffet-style along with bagels or pastries. It’s breakfast convenience at its finest!
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers are a glorious thing with this casserole! To store, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices into airtight containers. You can keep it in the fridge for about 3-4 days, but I can’t imagine it lasting that long!
For reheating, pop a slice in the microwave for a quick zap, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you want to store it longer, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just be sure to wrap it tightly; it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some pro chef secrets to ensure your casserole shines:
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Cook your sausage well: Getting a nice, crispy texture will add depth to your dish. Feel free to even add some herbs or spices to the sausage as it cooks for an extra flavor boost!
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Whisking technique: When whisking your eggs and milk, do it vigorously! It’ll help incorporate air and make your casserole light and fluffy.
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Embrace creativity: Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients. Throw in spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for a seasonal twist!
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Crisp the edges: If you enjoy crispy edges, leave it in the oven a couple of minutes longer. Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Creative Twists
Why stick to the basics when you can explore?
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Southwestern Style: Add in some diced jalapeños and swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese. Top it off with avocado slices after baking for a refreshing finish.
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Mediterranean Vibe: Substitute the sausage with crumbled feta cheese, and add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Season with oregano for that authentic Mediterranean flavor!
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Herbaceous Delight: Sprinkle in some fresh herbs like chives or parsley right before serving for that punch of brightness.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
Directions to follow
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in cooked sausage, cheese, bell peppers, and onions.
- Pour mixture into the baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until eggs are set.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Common questions
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Can I prep this casserole the night before?
Yes! Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven in the morning! -
What should I serve with it?
Fresh fruit, yogurt, and pastries are great companions. -
Can I use egg substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use egg replacements or silken tofu for a vegan-friendly option. -
How about leftovers?
They’re fantastic! Store them in the fridge for a delicious breakfast throughout the week. -
What if I don’t like sausage?
Feel free to substitute it with bacon, ham, or even a meat-free alternative!
Savoring this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is like inviting a warm sunshine-filled morning into your kitchen any day of the week. Packed with hearty ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish that transforms simple mornings into cherished moments with family and friends. Lean into the joy of cooking! Try this recipe, experiment with your own twists, and don’t forget to share your adventures in the kitchen with us. I can’t wait to hear how your breakfast bliss unfolds!
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole: 6-Ingredient Breakfast Bliss
Description
This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a delightful blend of eggs, sausage, and cheese that brings warmth and comfort to your breakfast table. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this versatile dish can be customized with your favorite ingredients.Key Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Cooking Instructions
Preparation Steps
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Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Grease the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. -
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. -
Add Sausage and Cheese
Stir in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese. -
Incorporate Optional Ingredients
If desired, add the diced bell peppers and onions. -
Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth it out. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set. -
Cool and Serve
Let it cool for about 5 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 320kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21g33%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 275mg92%
- Sodium 640mg27%
- Potassium 300mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 6g2%
- Dietary Fiber 0g
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 23g46%
- Vitamin A 950 IU
- Vitamin C 2 mg
- Calcium 300 mg
- Iron 1 mg
- Vitamin D 1 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 1 mcg
- Thiamin 0.1 mg
- Riboflavin 0.5 mg
- Niacin 1 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.3 mg
- Folate 30 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0.4 mg
- Phosphorus 230 mg
- Magnesium 20 mg
- Zinc 2 mg
- Selenium 20 mcg
- Copper 0.1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
