This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfect for a cozy morning! It’s packed with fluffy eggs, tasty sausage, and gooey cheese all baked together in one dish.
I love how easy it is to throw together, and who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of cheese baking? It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you feel like a superstar chef, even if you just opened a package of sausage! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage based on your preference. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based sausage crumbles or mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. Mixing cheeses can create a fun flavor experience!
Eggs: I recommend using large eggs for this recipe. If you’re watching cholesterol, feel free to substitute some whole eggs with egg whites or use an egg replacer for a lighter version.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns are super convenient, but you can also use fresh diced potatoes. If you’re in a pinch, skip the potatoes altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do I Cook the Sausage Perfectly?
Cooking the sausage is key to this casserole! You want it nice and browned for the best flavor. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes. Looking for no pink bits is crucial here!
- If there’s excess fat, simply drain some out before mixing in the veggies.
Remember, if you overcook it, the sausage can get tough, so keep an eye on it!
Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cups frozen hash browns or diced potatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. Make sure to let it cool for 5-10 minutes after baking for easy slicing. In total, you’re looking at about an hour for a hearty breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole bakes evenly. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside. If there’s a lot of grease, you can drain some of it out.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper (if you’re using it) to the remaining sausage drippings. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Then, remove them from the heat.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined and smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, hash browns or diced potatoes (if using), and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Mix everything well.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the complete egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure everything cooks nicely.
7. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole for that gooey, cheesy goodness!
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Cool and Slice:
After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This makes it easier to slice into portions.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Top with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty cheesy delight!
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage substitute. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prep this casserole the night before! Assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes to the mixture. Just make sure to sauté any fresh veggies before adding them, so they’re tender when the casserole is baked.
