Looking for a quick and delicious way to start your day? This Easy Breakfast Casserole is the perfect solution! Packed with hearty ingredients like eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats or veggies, it’s ideal for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want a no-fuss family breakfast, this casserole comes together in minutes and bakes to golden perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this perfect for busy mornings.
Feeds a Crowd: Great for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or meal prepping.
Customizable: Add your favorite meats, veggies, or cheeses to make it your own.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
Delicious Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Eggs – The base of the casserole, providing structure and fluffiness.
Milk – Adds creaminess and helps blend the eggs smoothly.
Breakfast Sausage – Adds savory flavor; you can use turkey or chicken sausage if preferred.
Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix for a gooey, cheesy texture.
Bread Cubes – Helps absorb the egg mixture and gives a hearty texture.
Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance the flavors.
Onions & Bell Peppers (Optional) – Adds a slight crunch and extra flavor.
Garlic Powder (Optional) – Boosts the overall taste with a mild garlicky touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set aside. If you want to add vegetables like onions or bell peppers, cook them in the same pan until softened.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack 8 large eggs and whisk them together with 1 cup of milk. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Spread a layer of bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread. If using vegetables, spread those over the sausage.
Next, sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar works great, but you can mix in mozzarella or pepper jack if you like).
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Slowly pour the egg mixture over everything, making sure it soaks into the bread and covers all the ingredients. Gently press down with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to set fully, making it easier to cut.
Serve warm with your favorite toppings like fresh herbs, salsa, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for Best Results
1. Use Day-Old Bread for Better Texture
Fresh bread can become too soft or mushy in casseroles. For the best texture, use slightly stale bread or toast fresh bread cubes before adding them to the dish. This helps them hold their shape while absorbing the egg mixture.
2. Fully Cook the Sausage (or Other Meats)
Always cook sausage, bacon, or ham before adding them to the casserole. Raw meat will release liquid during baking, making the casserole greasy and unevenly cooked.
3. Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts. For the creamiest, meltiest cheese topping, shred your cheese from a block.
4. Customize with Your Favorite Ingredients
This recipe is very flexible! Swap sausage for cooked bacon, diced ham, or even plant-based sausage. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Don’t Overmix the Eggs
Whisk the eggs and milk until just combined. Overmixing can add too much air, making the casserole more spongy than creamy.
6. Let It Rest After Baking
Once the casserole comes out of the oven, let it sit for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the eggs set fully, making it easier to serve clean slices.
7. Make It Ahead for Convenience
You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it fresh. This is perfect for holidays or busy mornings.
8. Test for Doneness
To ensure the center is fully cooked, insert a knife into the middle of the casserole. If it comes out clean with no liquid egg, it’s ready.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Too Much Liquid
It’s tempting to add extra milk or eggs, but too much liquid can make your casserole soggy or prevent it from setting properly. Stick to the recommended measurements to keep the texture just right — soft but not wet.
2. Skipping the Grease
Always grease your baking dish well. Eggs and cheese tend to stick, and without proper greasing, you’ll end up scraping the sides or losing some of the casserole. Butter, oil, or non-stick spray all work well.
3. Adding Raw Ingredients
Raw sausage, bacon, or vegetables release moisture during baking, which can water down the casserole and prevent even cooking. Always cook meats and sauté veggies ahead of time.
4. Overloading with Ingredients
It’s tempting to pack the casserole with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, but overloading can prevent the eggs from binding everything together. Keep the ingredient-to-egg ratio balanced.
5. Not Letting It Rest
Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Letting it rest for 5 to 10 minutes allows it to firm up and makes slicing much cleaner.
6. Using the Wrong Bread
Soft, fresh bread can turn mushy once soaked in eggs. For the best results, use day-old bread with a sturdier texture, such as French bread, sourdough, or rustic loaf cubes.
7. Underbaking
If the center is still jiggly when you remove the casserole from the oven, it needs more time. The eggs should be fully set, with no liquid left. If unsure, insert a knife in the middle — it should come out clean.
8. Ignoring Seasoning
Eggs, sausage, and cheese are flavorful, but a casserole still benefits from seasoning. Don’t forget salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or paprika for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
1. Pair with Fresh Fruit
Balance the rich, savory flavors of your breakfast casserole with something light and refreshing. A side of fresh fruit—like berries, melon, or citrus slices—adds color and sweetness to your plate. You can even create a simple fruit salad for a more elegant touch.
2. Add a Side Salad
If you’re serving this casserole for brunch or even lunch, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great pairing. The fresh greens add contrast to the hearty, cheesy casserole.
3. Serve with Toast or Biscuits
For an extra filling meal, serve the casserole with buttered toast, English muffins, or warm biscuits. This is especially great if you’re hosting a larger breakfast gathering.
4. Offer Toppings
Set up a topping bar to let guests customize their slice. Some great options include:
- Salsa or hot sauce for a little kick
- Sour cream for creaminess
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley for color and flavor
- Avocado slices for a creamy, healthy addition
5. Make It a Full Breakfast Spread
Want to turn your casserole into a complete brunch feast? Pair it with sides like:
- Crispy bacon or sausage links
- Hash browns or roasted potatoes
- Pancakes or waffles for a sweet contrast
6. Perfect for Holidays or Special Occasions
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for holidays like Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or Mother’s Day breakfast. Serve it buffet-style so everyone can help themselves.
7. Enjoy Leftovers for Lunch
Leftovers taste just as good! Serve a reheated slice with a cup of soup or a side salad for an easy lunch the next day.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the casserole soggy. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, transfer individual slices to airtight containers.
- In the Refrigerator: Store for up to 3 to 4 days.
- In the Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Options
The casserole reheats well, whether you’re warming up a single slice or the entire dish. Here are the best methods:
- Oven (Best for Larger Portions)
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. - Microwave (Best for Individual Slices)
Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1 to 2 minutes, checking after the first minute. This helps prevent the eggs from becoming rubbery. - Air Fryer (Great for a Crispy Top)
Preheat air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place a slice in the basket and heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until hot and slightly crisped on top.
Pro Tip:
If the casserole seems dry after reheating, add a drizzle of milk or a sprinkle of cheese before warming it up to restore moisture and flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Swap the Meat
Don’t have sausage? No problem! You can easily substitute with:
- Crispy bacon (crumbled)
- Diced ham
- Chopped turkey sausage
- Plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option
2. Use Different Cheeses
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix and match cheeses to create different flavor profiles:
- Pepper Jack for a spicy kick
- Mozzarella for extra gooey texture
- Feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist
- Mexican blend for a Tex-Mex vibe
3. Add More Veggies
Boost nutrition and flavor by adding vegetables. Some tasty options include:
- Spinach (chopped)
- Mushrooms (sautéed)
- Bell peppers (diced)
- Tomatoes (chopped and drained)
- Zucchini (grated and squeezed dry)
4. Make It Low-Carb
Skip the bread entirely to make this a crustless breakfast casserole. Just increase the eggs slightly to help bind the ingredients.
5. Try a Southwestern Twist
Add green chilies, black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning to give the casserole a bold, Tex-Mex flair. Serve with salsa and avocado on top.
6. Dairy-Free Option
For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, and swap regular cheese for your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.
7. Spice It Up
Love bold flavors? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for extra heat.
8. Personal Portion Option
Instead of baking in one large dish, divide the mixture into greased muffin tins to create individual breakfast casserole muffins — perfect for meal prep or grab-and-go breakfasts.
Nutritional Information
Note: This is an estimate based on a typical recipe using sausage, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk, and bread.
- Calories: 320-350
- Protein: 18-20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 20-22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 240-260 mg
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugar: 3-4 grams
- Sodium: 700-800 mg
Related Recipes
Hashbrown Casserole Recipe — a similar comforting breakfast casserole for potato lovers.
Breakfast Ideas for Kids — a collection of creative and nutritious options perfect for families.
Cheese and Ham Pancakes — an easy breakfast recipe with savory flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just bake it fresh. It’s perfect for holiday mornings or busy weekdays.
2. Can I freeze breakfast casserole?
Absolutely. After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place slices in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The center should be firm and set, not jiggly. Insert a knife in the middle — if it comes out clean, the casserole is done. It usually takes about 35 to 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C).