If you are on the hunt for a hearty, comforting breakfast that brings everyone to the table with smiles, this Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Imagine layers of savory sausage mingling with fluffy eggs, melty cheddar cheese, and soft cubes of French bread soaked in a rich custard infused with a hint of French onion dip. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish that combines simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary, ideal for lazy weekend mornings or special family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Sausage – Choose a savory pork sausage to provide a rich and juicy foundation for the casserole.
- French bread – Cubed slices add a soft yet slightly chewy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully.
- Shredded Cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp, melty creaminess that pulls all the ingredients together.
- Milk – Creates the custard base with eggs, ensuring a tender, luscious bake.
- Large eggs – The binding force of the casserole, delivering protein and structure.
- Refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip – A secret ingredient that infuses the casserole with a subtle tang and onion undertones for incredible depth.
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that brighten and enhance every bite.
How to Make Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan
Start by lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup later. This small step is essential as it helps the casserole release beautifully once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat thoroughly to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, leaving behind just the flavorful sausage crumbles.
Step 3: Layer the Bread, Sausage, and Cheese
Arrange the cubed French bread in an even, single layer at the bottom of the prepared pan. Next, spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes, and sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese on top. These layers will create a wonderful mix of soft bread, hearty meat, and gooey cheese in every bite.
Step 4: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sour cream French onion dip, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This custard adds creaminess and a subtle tang, making the casserole incredibly rich and flavorful.
Step 5: Pour and Chill
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers of sausage and cheese, allowing it to soak into the bread cubes. Cover the pan tightly and refrigerate the casserole for 8 to 24 hours. This overnight soak lets the bread absorb the custard fully, resulting in a perfectly tender and cohesive bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Bake the covered casserole for 30 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. The result is a bubbly, savory casserole with a beautifully firm yet creamy texture.
How to Serve Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe is how well it pairs with a variety of simple garnishes. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley over each serving for a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the richness wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Keep things balanced by serving the casserole alongside fresh fruit salad or crisp green salad to add brightness and contrast. You can also include some warm toast or flaky biscuits to soak up any delicious leftovers on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, serve the casserole in individual ramekins garnished with thin slices of avocado and a dash of hot sauce. Layering small portions this way makes it feel extra special and lets guests enjoy personalized servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for quick and satisfying next-day breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully both before and after baking. For best results, assemble and freeze in the baking dish, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. Alternatively, freeze cooked portions for up to 2 months for an easy heat-and-eat meal.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen casserole portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to maintain moisture and bake at 350ºF until hot, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps your casserole tasting fresh and delicious every time.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and works well in this casserole. Just be mindful to drain any excess liquid that might come from the turkey sausage to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
Do I have to use French bread, or can I substitute other bread?
While French bread is ideal for its texture and absorbency, you can substitute with other sturdy breads like sourdough or Italian bread. Avoid very soft or pre-sliced sandwich breads as they may turn too mushy.
What if I don’t have French onion dip? Can I use sour cream instead?
You can swap the French onion dip for plain sour cream, but you’ll miss out on the unique onion and herb flavor it adds. To replicate, add a pinch of onion powder and some dried herbs to the sour cream as a quick fix.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free or low-fat?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and milk substitutes to make it dairy-free, and opt for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Keep in mind that these changes might slightly alter the flavor and richness, but it will still be delicious.
Is it okay to bake the casserole immediately, or do I have to refrigerate it first?
While you can bake it right away, refrigerating the casserole for at least 8 hours or overnight ensures the bread soaks up the custard fully. This step creates a more cohesive and moist texture that’s difficult to achieve otherwise.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food bliss, a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again because it’s simply that good. Whether it’s a busy weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, this casserole is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Sausage Egg Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage Egg Casserole featuring layers of savory sausage, cubed French bread, and melted cheddar cheese, all soaked in a creamy mixture of eggs, milk, and French onion dip. Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or brunch gatherings, this casserole can be prepared ahead and baked fresh, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish that serves eight.
Ingredients
Sausage and Bread
- 1 lb sausage
- 8 (1-inch) slices French bread, cut into cubes
Dairy and Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup refrigerated sour cream French Onion Dip
Seasonings
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Prepare baking pan: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set it aside to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Cook sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it is no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned thoroughly, drain the excess fat well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Layer bread, sausage, and cheese: Arrange the cubed French bread evenly in a single layer in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, then top everything with the shredded Cheddar cheese to make a flavorful base.
- Mix custard and combine: In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sour cream French Onion Dip, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth. Pour this creamy custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese in the baking pan.
- Refrigerate: Cover the pan tightly and refrigerate the casserole for 8 to 24 hours. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb the custard, making the casserole rich and tender.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes to allow it to start setting. Then uncover and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a spicier version, try adding some diced jalapeños or using a spicy sausage.
- Make sure to drain the sausage well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- The casserole can be prepared a day ahead, making it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining.
- Use day-old French bread for best absorption and texture.
- Feel free to substitute the French onion dip with regular sour cream mixed with onion powder and garlic powder if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
