Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that transitions perfectly from a hearty breakfast to a satisfying dinner. Packed with protein and savory flavors, it is a versatile comfort food favorite that is incredibly simple to whip up for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to keep this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole in your regular meal rotation. First, it is incredibly versatile; whether you are hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a filling “breakfast for dinner” option, this dish fits the bill perfectly. It is also a breeze to prepare with simple, pantry-staple ingredients, making it a no-fuss choice for busy mornings. Finally, it is a guaranteed crowd favorite that is easy to customize, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters at your table will be impressed.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sausage (breakfast sausage, Italian, or spicy varieties)
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or your preferred cheese blend
  • 2 cups bread cubes (optional, for a heartier texture)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped spinach (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch or 8×11-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Sausage: Place your sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
  3. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
  4. Assemble the Casserole: Evenly layer the cooked sausage, optional vegetables (peppers, spinach, onions), and shredded cheese in the prepared baking dish. If you are using bread cubes, layer them in as well. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the ingredients.
  5. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You will know it is done when the center is set and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows the eggs to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice. Serve warm.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

Expert Tips / Pro Tips

To get the best results with your Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole, make sure to drain the sausage grease thoroughly after browning; this prevents the casserole from becoming oily. If you are using bread, try using day-old or slightly toasted bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming mushy. For a perfectly golden top, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. If you want to spice it up, try using spicy chorizo or adding diced jalapeños to the mix. For a healthier “veggie boost,” incorporate diced zucchini, mushrooms, or kale. If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the traditional sausage with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative. For a low-carb version, simply omit the bread cubes entirely; the casserole will still be delicious and firm.

Serving Suggestions

This savory casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic breakfast spread, serve it alongside a bowl of fresh seasonal fruit or a stack of buttered toast. If you are serving this for brunch or dinner, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the eggs and sausage.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: For individual servings, the microwave works best. To reheat a larger portion, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain the best texture.

Nutrition Information

NutrientAmount Per Serving
Calories350 kcal
Total Fat24g
Cholesterol215mg
Sodium850mg
Total Carbohydrates12g
Protein22g
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole

This Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish that transitions perfectly from a hearty breakfast to a satisfying dinner. Packed with protein and savory flavors, it is a versatile comfort food favorite that is incredibly simple to whip up for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound sausage breakfast, Italian, or spicy
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2% recommended
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups bread cubes optional
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 cup diced bell peppers optional
  • 0.5 cup chopped spinach optional
  • 0.25 cup diced onions optional

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • 7×11-inch or 8×11-inch baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 7×11-inch or 8×11-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Place your sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.
    1 pound sausage
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
    6 large eggs, 1 cup milk, 0.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, 0.5 tsp garlic powder, 0.25 tsp smoked paprika
  4. Evenly layer the cooked sausage, optional vegetables (peppers, spinach, onions), and shredded cheese in the prepared baking dish. If you are using bread cubes, layer them in as well. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the ingredients.
    1 pound sausage, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups bread cubes, 0.5 cup diced bell peppers, 0.5 cup chopped spinach, 0.25 cup diced onions
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You will know it is done when the center is set and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown.
  6. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Drain the sausage grease thoroughly after browning to prevent the casserole from becoming oily. If using bread, choose day-old or slightly toasted bread to absorb the egg mixture better without becoming mushy.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed, though you may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time since it is starting cold.

What is the best type of sausage to use?

Standard breakfast sausage is the classic choice for a traditional flavor. However, Italian sausage adds a lovely herb profile, and chorizo is excellent if you prefer a smoky, spicy kick.

Can this casserole be made without bread?

Absolutely. If you omit the bread, you will have a crustless quiche-style casserole that is naturally lower in carbohydrates. It remains just as flavorful and satisfying.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

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