The Ultimate Make-Ahead Feast: Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Mornings are often rushed, chaotic, and decidedly non-magical. But what if we told you there was a way to guarantee a warm, comforting, and absolutely decadent start to your day without having to crack a single egg before coffee? Enter the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole the hero of brunch menus, holiday mornings, and busy weeknights alike.

This recipe is more than just scrambled eggs mixed with meat and cheese; it’s a perfectly seasoned breakfast strata, where slices of bread soak up a rich, savory custard overnight, transforming into a magnificent, moist, and fluffy centerpiece. When baked, the edges turn delightfully crispy, the sausage adds a punch of savory flavor, and the cheddar forms a blanket of melted perfection.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or simply looking for an easy, high-protein meal prep solution, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal morning effort. Say goodbye to complicated breakfast menus and hello to the simplicity and satisfaction of the definitive overnight breakfast casserole. We’ll walk you through every critical step, ensuring your casserole is always perfectly set, never soggy, and always the star of the table.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

There are countless reasons why this particular recipe for a Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole has become a beloved classic in so many kitchens. It checks all the boxes for flavor, convenience, and crowd appeal. It takes the stress out of entertaining and makes even the most hectic weekdays manageable. Once you try this method, you’ll never go back to juggling frying pans and stovetops on Sunday morning.

Unbeatable Flavor and Texture Combination

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of textures. You get the savory, seasoned bite of the breakfast sausage, contrasted with the creamy, delicate custard base. The dry ground mustard might seem like a small addition, but it provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and milk, elevating the entire flavor profile. The result is a truly deep, satisfying taste that is far superior to standard frittatas or quiches.

• The Custard Effect: By allowing the bread to soak for hours, the milk and eggs fully penetrate the cubes. This results in a silky, moist interior a true strata rather than just a layer of cooked bread and egg.
• Perfectly Balanced Saltiness: The salty kick from the cooked sausage and cheddar cheese means minimal additional seasoning is needed, allowing the core ingredients to shine.
• Crisp Edges: Baking the casserole uncovered for the last portion of time ensures the bread cubes around the perimeter achieve a desirable, slightly crunchy, golden-brown crust.

The Essential Make-Ahead Advantage

For large family breakfasts, holidays, or potlucks, planning ahead is non-negotiable. This make-ahead breakfast bake allows you to do 90% of the work the night before. This includes browning the meat, cubing the bread, layering the dish, and mixing the custard. All that’s left on the morning of is sliding the casserole into the oven. Imagine waking up, making coffee, and being greeted by the aroma of baking sausage and melted cheese all thanks to your foresight!

This time-saving aspect is especially critical during major events, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, when oven space and morning energy are at a premium. Pair this hearty casserole with a simple fruit salad, and you have a complete, elegant brunch with almost zero morning labor. If you’re also preparing other complex dishes, like a traditional stuffing, you can easily handle the Grandma’s Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe alongside this simple casserole preparation the day before.

Why You Should Try This Overnight Breakfast Bake Today

While the taste and convenience are compelling, the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole offers practical benefits that make it an indispensable recipe in your repertoire. It’s reliable, customizable, and exceptionally budget-friendly, utilizing ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Effortless Crowd Pleaser

A single 9×13 inch casserole dish yields 8 to 12 generous servings, making it ideal for feeding a large family or hosting a brunch effortlessly. Unlike pancakes or omelets, which require continuous cooking and serving, this casserole is baked all at once and serves straight from the dish. It holds heat beautifully, so guests can leisurely help themselves without the food getting cold instantly. If you are serving this for brunch, consider offering a variety of flavors. For a sweet counterpoint, you might also be interested in my recipe for Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes.

Mastering the Strata Technique

This recipe introduces you to the concept of a breakfast strata, which is arguably the best method for creating a breakfast casserole that doesn’t fall apart or end up dry. The overnight soak is not merely recommended; it’s essential. During the refrigeration period, the starches in the bread bind with the proteins and fat in the custard. This binding process holds the entire dish together, creating a structure similar to a bread pudding or savory custard when baked.

The payoff of the overnight soak:

• Uniform Texture: The bread softens uniformly, preventing hard, dry chunks and ensuring every bite is moist.
• Flavor Infusion: The seasoning from the mustard, salt, and pepper fully permeates the bread cubes and sausage.
• Structure: It guarantees the casserole rises slightly and maintains its shape when sliced, making serving clean and simple.

Highly Versatile and Adaptable

While we focus on the classic sausage and cheese combination here, this base recipe is incredibly forgiving and easily adapted to seasonal ingredients or dietary needs. It works equally well with bacon, ham, or even smoked salmon. The ability to use up leftover bread (especially Texas toast or day-old loaves) also makes it an economical choice, reducing food waste while providing a delicious, hearty meal. This foundational recipe is perfect for introducing creativity into your breakfast routine, ensuring you can enjoy a unique breakfast casserole year-round.

Essential Ingredients and Tools for the Perfect Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Achieving the perfect, custardy texture in this cheesy sausage bake requires attention to ingredient quality and the right tools. We break down exactly what you need and why each component is crucial to the final success of your dish.

Detailed Ingredient List (The Heart of the Casserole)

Following these precise quantities is essential for the ideal bread-to-custard ratio, ensuring your casserole is set perfectly and never watery.

The Savory Base:

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): We recommend a high-quality bulk pork sausage for the best flavor and fat content, which adds richness to the entire dish. If you prefer less heat, stick to mild; if you like a kick, spicy sausage balances the richness of the cheese beautifully.
• 6 slices day-old sandwich bread or Texas toast, cubed (about 4 cups): Day-old bread is crucial because it is slightly drier and more absorbent than fresh bread, preventing a soggy bottom. Texas toast works exceptionally well due to its thicker cut. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend: Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, or grate your own for a meltier, creamier texture. The blend adds excellent stretch and creaminess to the final product.

The Custard Mixture:

• 8 large eggs: The protein binder. Ensure they are whisked thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps the custard puff slightly during baking.
• 2 cups whole milk (or 2%): Whole milk provides the necessary fat content for a rich, flavorful custard. While 2% can work, avoid skim milk as it often results in a less creamy, thinner custard.
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard: This is a secret weapon in breakfast casseroles. It doesn’t make the casserole taste like mustard; instead, it provides a warm, tangy depth that enhances the savory notes of the sausage and cheese.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Necessary for seasoning the eggs and milk. Remember, the sausage and cheese also contribute significant saltiness.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for better aroma and flavor.

Preparation Essentials:

• Butter or cooking spray: For greasing the baking dish, ensuring easy removal and serving.

Recommended Tools for Casserole Success

While this recipe is simple, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and baking. Proper tool usage contributes directly to the success of your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

1. 9×13 Inch Casserole Dish: This standard size is essential for the ingredients specified. Using a dish that is too shallow might lead to overflow during the soak; one that is too deep might require longer baking time and risks an undercooked center.
2. Large Skillet: Needed for browning the bulk breakfast sausage thoroughly and draining the grease.
3. Large Mixing Bowl (for the Custard): Must be large enough to vigorously whisk the 8 eggs and 2 cups of milk without spilling.
4. Wire Whisk: Essential for incorporating the dry ground mustard, salt, and pepper into the egg and milk mixture until perfectly smooth.
5. Rubber Spatula or Back of a Spoon: Used during the assembly phase (Step 8) to gently press the bread cubes down, ensuring maximum saturation before the overnight rest.

Before beginning the steps, gather all your ingredients and tools. A smooth “mise en place” (everything in its place) approach makes the assembly of this easy breakfast strata a breeze. For more ideas on how to organize your meal prep and entertaining, you can Find more brunch inspiration on our Pinterest board!

Step-by-Step Guide: Preparing Your Ultimate Sausage and Egg Casserole

The success of this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole hinges on two key stages: proper cooking and draining of the sausage, and the crucial overnight soak. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect result every time.

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Sausage:

   Crumble the breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the chunks with a wooden spoon or spatula, until thoroughly browned, ensuring absolutely no pink remains. This step is vital undercooked sausage is a food safety risk, and excess fat will make the final casserole greasy.

   Practical Tip: Once browned, drain off all excess grease. You can use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, or carefully tilt the skillet and pour off the fat. Set the sausage aside to cool slightly while you prepare the dish.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Ensure the sides are also greased to prevent the edges of the egg mixture from sticking.

3. Arrange the Bread:

   Distribute the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Ensure the entire bottom surface is covered. This layer provides the structure and the primary source of moisture absorption for the cheesy sausage breakfast casserole.

4. Layer the Meat and Cheese:

   Sprinkle the cooled, cooked, and drained sausage evenly over the layer of bread cubes. Cooling the sausage slightly prevents it from melting the cheese prematurely during assembly. Next, sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the sausage and bread mixture.

   Cooking Trick: Hold back about 1/4 cup of the cheese. This reserved cheese can be sprinkled over the top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a fresh, gooey look.

Creating the Custard

5. Whisk the Wet Ingredients:

   In a large bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. Whisking in air helps create a light and tender final texture in your sausage and egg casserole.

6. Add Dairy and Seasoning:

   Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk. Add the 1 teaspoon of dry ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until all the seasonings, especially the dry mustard, are completely dissolved and incorporated into the egg and milk mixture, forming the essential custard.

   Important Note: The mustard powder needs thorough whisking to prevent small clumps from settling at the bottom.

Assembly and Soaking (The Critical Stage)

7. Pour the Custard:

   Carefully pour the entire egg and milk custard mixture evenly over the sausage, bread, and cheese layers in the casserole dish. Pour slowly, aiming to saturate the bread cubes evenly from corner to corner.

8. Press and Soak (Crucial Step):

   Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure they absorb the liquid thoroughly. You want the bread to be fully submerged and saturated. This step is non-negotiable for achieving a moist interior and preventing the top bread from drying out during baking.

9. Refrigerate:

   Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the casserole in the refrigerator and allow it to soak for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 12 hours). This soaking time is essential for the bread to soften and absorb the custard, holding the dish together when baked. Skipping this step often results in a dry, crumbly, and unset casserole.

Baking and Serving

10. Pre-Bake Preparation:

    Remove the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking time to allow it to come slightly closer to room temperature. This helps ensure even baking. Remove the plastic wrap or foil.

11. Bake the Casserole:

    Place the uncovered casserole dish into the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes.

12. Check for Doneness:

    The casserole is done when the center is set, the eggs are no longer wet or jiggly, and the top is puffed and lightly golden brown. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean. If the edges begin to brown too quickly (usually around the 40-minute mark), you may loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time to prevent burning the crust while the center finishes cooking.

13. Rest and Serve:

    Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving immediately. Resting allows the internal heat to redistribute and helps the structure firm up, making the squares much easier to lift out of the dish cleanly.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations

Mastering the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole opens the door to endless variations. Use these expert tips to ensure your casserole is perfect every time, and explore substitutions to keep your brunch menu fresh and exciting.

Troubleshooting Common Casserole Issues

Even seasoned bakers sometimes encounter issues with egg bakes. Here’s how to avoid the most frequent problems:

• Problem: Soggy Bottom. Solution: Use Day-Old Bread. Fresh bread has too much moisture and turns mushy. Ensure you drain the sausage grease completely. Excess grease mixed with the custard is a key contributor to a greasy or soggy base.
• Problem: Dry or Unset Center. Solution: Don’t Skip the Warm-Up. If you place a cold casserole directly into the oven, the edges burn before the center cooks. Allowing it to sit out for 30 minutes (Step 10) helps ensure even temperature distribution. Always check the center with a knife for doneness.
• Problem: Bland Flavor. Solution: Season Correctly. The dry ground mustard is essential. If you omit it, consider adding a pinch of onion powder or garlic powder to the custard mixture to boost the savory depth.

Flavor and Ingredient Variations

This recipe for cheesy sausage and egg casserole serves as a fantastic blueprint. Feel free to adapt the protein and cheese to your taste:

Meat Alternatives:

• Bacon or Ham: Substitute the sausage with 1 pound of cooked, crumbled bacon, or 1.5 cups of diced, cooked ham. Ham offers a milder flavor that pairs well with Swiss or Gruyère cheese.
• Turkey or Chicken Sausage: For a lighter option, use turkey or chicken breakfast sausage. Note that these are leaner and may require a touch of extra fat (like a small amount of butter added to the skillet) if the dish seems too dry.
• Meatless Version: Omit the sausage entirely and double the vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or spinach work wonderfully in this breakfast strata.

Cheese and Dairy Swaps:

• Spicier Cheese: Use Pepper Jack cheese instead of Cheddar for a spicy kick.
• Richer Cheese: Swap Cheddar for sharp Gruyère or a combination of Asiago and Fontina for a nuttier, more complex flavor profile.
• Milk Substitution: If you are looking for a dairy-free option, unsweetened almond milk or oat milk can be used, although the texture will be slightly less rich than with whole milk.

Adding Vegetables:

Vegetables add texture and nutritional value to your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Remember to cook them thoroughly before adding to the casserole dish to prevent excess moisture:

• Sautéed bell peppers and onions (1 cup total).
• A handful of chopped green onions added after baking for freshness.
• 1 cup of frozen, thawed, and well-drained spinach or kale.

For those interested in exploring quick, savory dishes that utilize breakfast sausage, you might also enjoy my popular appetizer: 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip it’s just as easy to prepare as this casserole!

Freezing and Storage Tips

This casserole is excellent for meal prep. Once baked and completely cooled, cut the casserole into individual portions. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen, then microwave or bake in a low oven (300°F) until warmed through.

Nutritional Insights and Benefits of This Hearty Breakfast Bake

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a dense, high-energy dish perfect for powering through busy mornings. It’s an ideal choice for athletes, growing families, or anyone needing a meal that offers sustained energy release throughout the day.

High-Quality Protein Source

The core ingredients eggs, milk, and sausage make this casserole an exceptionally high-protein meal. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, satiety (feeling full), and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Eggs are considered a “complete protein,” containing all nine essential amino acids. When combined with the protein from the sausage, a serving of this hearty breakfast casserole provides a significant portion of your daily protein needs.

Rich in Essential Nutrients

• Fats and Energy: While this is not a low-fat dish, the fats sourced from the whole milk, cheese, and sausage are important energy sources. These fats also help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).
• Calcium: The 2 cups of milk and 2 cups of cheese provide a large dose of calcium, essential for bone health and nervous system function.
• B Vitamins: Eggs and meat are excellent sources of B vitamins, including B12, which are vital for energy production and nerve health.

While exact calorie counts vary based on the specific brand of sausage and type of milk used, a typical serving (1/10th of the 9×13 pan) generally falls around 350–450 calories, offering a balanced macronutrient profile dominated by protein and healthy fats. It is important to remember this is a robust, satisfying meal designed for energy, making it a much healthier alternative to sugary cereals or pastries.

Serving suggestions to balance the richness include pairing the casserole with a fresh green salad or a bowl of mixed berries. The acidity and lightness of fruit help cut through the richness of the cheese and sausage, creating a perfectly balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about making, serving, and storing this popular breakfast bake, ensuring you have every tip necessary for success.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Make-Ahead Brunch

The quest for the perfect, stress-free brunch recipe ends here. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the definition of comfort food packed with savory sausage, rich cheese, and enveloped in a delicate, perfectly seasoned egg custard. Its overwhelming popularity stems not just from its incredible flavor, but from the simple magic of preparation: do the work the night before, and enjoy a flawless, hearty meal in the morning.

By following the crucial steps especially fully draining the sausage and committing to the long, overnight soak you guarantee a moist, tender, and beautifully set casserole every time. Whether you call it a strata, a breakfast bake, or a simple sausage and egg casserole, it delivers substantial goodness that feeds a crowd and simplifies your life.

We encourage you to try this recipe for your next holiday gathering, Sunday brunch, or even as a weekly meal prep solution. Once you experience the ease and flavor of this make-ahead favorite, it will quickly become a permanent staple in your kitchen. We’d love to hear how your casserole turns out, and what delicious variations you try! Please share your success stories and comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow brunch enthusiasts!

Overnight Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This savory make-ahead breakfast casserole features bulk sausage, cubed bread soaked in a rich egg custard, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, perfect for easy holiday mornings or brunch.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Base Layers

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage mild or spicy
• 6 slices day-old sandwich bread or Texas toast, cubed about 4 cups cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend
• Butter or cooking spray for greasing the dish

Custard Mixture

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk or 2%
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• 9x13 inch Casserole Dish
• Large skillet

Method

 

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Sausage: Crumble the breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until thoroughly browned (about 8-10 minutes). Drain off any excess grease completely and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a standard 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. Arrange the Layers: Distribute the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Then, sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top.

Creating the Custard

1. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs vigorously until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Pour in the 2 cups of milk.
2. Season: Add the 1 teaspoon of dry ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until all the seasonings are incorporated, forming the custard.

Assembly and Soaking (Crucial Step)

1. Pour the Custard: Carefully pour the entire egg and milk custard mixture evenly over the sausage, bread, and cheese layers. Ensure that all the bread cubes are saturated.
2. Refrigerate: Gently press down on the bread cubes to aid absorption. Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate and allow to soak for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 12 hours).

Baking and Serving

1. Pre-Bake Preparation: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking time to allow it to temper slightly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap or foil.
2. Bake the Casserole: Place the uncovered dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes.
3. Check for Doneness: The casserole is done when the center is set (not jiggly), the eggs are no longer wet, and the top is puffed and lightly golden brown. If the edges begin to brown too quickly, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving immediately.

Notes

For best results, always use slightly stale or day-old bread, as fresh bread tends to become overly mushy. This recipe can be frozen after baking; allow to cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until warm throughout.