There’s something about waking up on a slow weekend morning that calls for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug. This Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole fits the bill perfectly — it’s hearty without being fussy, and the scent of sausage mingling with melted cheddar fills the kitchen in the best way. I remember one Saturday when I almost forgot to set the timer. The casserole was just about to brown a little more than I wanted, but honestly, that extra crisp on top made it even better. It’s the kind of dish that’s forgiving, cozy, and just right for gathering everyone around the table.
From the soft, fluffy eggs soaking into the tender hash browns to the pockets of savory sausage and sharp cheddar, each bite feels like a little celebration of morning flavors. It’s not fancy, and honestly, that’s part of the charm. Sometimes you want breakfast that’s straightforward but still packed with comfort, and this casserole hits that sweet spot.
- Combines protein, starch, and cheese for a filling start that keeps you going.
- Feeds a crowd easily, making it ideal for family brunches or lazy mornings with friends.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just solid flavors.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and baked fresh, which helps when mornings get hectic.
- Leftovers reheat well, though I’ll admit the texture changes a bit after a day or two.
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t demand a lot of morning brainpower but still feels special, this casserole might just become your new go-to. It’s the kind of recipe you can make the night before, then pop in the oven as everyone slowly wakes up.
PrintBreakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole
A hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole featuring savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
1 pound breakfast sausage
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Drain excess grease.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
Spread the thawed hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the hash browns.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and hash browns.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
When it comes to kitchen tools, a sturdy baking dish and a good skillet are all you really need here — nothing fancy required. I usually serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Sometimes I swap in a bit of smoked paprika or add diced bell peppers for a little extra color and flavor, though I haven’t tested all of these tweaks extensively. You could also try using different cheeses if sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite — mozzarella or pepper jack might work, but the texture will shift.
Some people like to add a dash of hot sauce at the table, which is a nice touch if you want a little kick. If you’re making this for a larger group, doubling the recipe and using two pans works well, just keep an eye on the baking time. Overall, it’s a flexible dish that welcomes a bit of improvisation.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Absolutely. It can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning, which is a total time-saver.
Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, leftovers freeze well for up to a month. Just thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I substitute the sausage? You can try ground turkey or a vegetarian option, but the flavor profile will change.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? I usually microwave individual portions for a minute or two, but reheating in the oven keeps it closer to the original texture.
Give this casserole a try next time you want a breakfast that feels like a warm morning ritual. Save it, make it, and enjoy the cozy vibes.