This easy breakfast casserole is a warm, satisfying dish perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy mornings. Layers of fluffy eggs, savory breakfast meat, hearty bread, and melted cheese bake together into a golden, comforting meal that feels like a homemade brunch. It’s simple to prepare with everyday ingredients and bakes to a tender, custard-like texture that everyone will love.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- Bread slices – 6 (crusts removed and cubed)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted
- Breakfast sausage – 450 g (1 lb), cooked and crumbled
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
- Large eggs – 6
- Milk – 2 cups
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Optional: diced bell peppers – ½ cup
- Optional: chopped green onions – 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed bread evenly in the bottom.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Gently press down on the bread so it soaks up the liquid.
- If you like, sprinkle diced bell peppers or green onions on top.
- Bake uncovered until the casserole is set in the center and golden on top, about 35–45 minutes.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Breakfast/Brunch
How to Store
- Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
What Not to Do
- Do not soak the bread too long before baking—it can turn soggy.
- Do not skip seasoning the egg mixture; it enhances every bite.
- Do not overbake—cook just until set to keep it tender.
Tips & Variations
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or diced ham.
- Use whole grain or sourdough bread for extra flavor.
- Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for more nutrition.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden, melty crust.
- Serve with fresh fruit or hash browns to round out the meal.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~420 kcal
- Protein: ~24 g
- Carbohydrates: ~30 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Saturated Fat: ~11 g
- Sugar: ~3 g
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175 °C (350 °F).
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed bread evenly in the bottom.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Gently press down so the bread soaks up the liquid.
- If you like, sprinkle diced bell peppers or green onions on top.
- Bake uncovered until the casserole is set in the center and golden on top, about 35–45 minutes.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Notes
- Protein: ~24 g
- Carbohydrates: ~30 g
- Fat: ~22 g
- Saturated Fat: ~11 g
- Sugar: ~3 g
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes — omit the sausage and load it with vegetables like peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely — assemble it the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
What bread works best?
Sturdy breads like sourdough or French bread hold up well without getting mushy.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes — freeze individual portions and thaw before reheating.
How do I know it’s done?
It’s ready when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
