Introduction
Start your day with a delicious and hearty Sausage and Egg Casserole that will tantalize your taste buds! This dish combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, it’s a wonderful way to fuel your morning and keep everyone satisfied. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll find that this casserole is as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage (breakfast or Italian)
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bread (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for baking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from getting too oily.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until frothy. This will create a rich and flavorful base for your casserole.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then layer the bread cubes evenly across the bottom. This will create a tasty, toasted layer that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- Next, add the cooked sausage evenly on top of the bread cubes. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle the chopped bell peppers over the sausage for an extra burst of flavor and color.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the sausage and bread, ensuring it’s evenly spread to saturate the bread cubes.
- Top it all off with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, which will melt into a deliciously gooey layer as it bakes.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the egg is set and the top is golden brown and bubbling. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely be irresistible!
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set up a bit more before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your casserole! You can add in ingredients like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition or swap the cheddar cheese for your favorite variety. Leftovers also reheat beautifully, making this a fantastic option for meal prepping. Just store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Cooking Techniques
When cooking the sausage, ensuring it’s well-browned adds depth of flavor to the dish. Mixing the egg mixture until frothy helps incorporate air, making for a lighter texture. Baking the casserole until golden not only signifies it’s done but also creates a beautiful crust that contrasts with the soft interior.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or even some crispy bacon for the ultimate breakfast feast.
Conclusion
This Sausage and Egg Casserole is not only easy to whip up but is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for family brunch, holiday mornings, or busy weekdays, it delivers warmth and comfort in every bite. So gather your ingredients and treat your loved ones to a satisfying breakfast that will leave them coming back for seconds!