Countryside Sunrise Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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Welcome to the heartwarming world of the Countryside Sunrise Casserole! This delightful dish combines classic breakfast elements into a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a make-ahead weekday breakfast.

Ingredients for Countryside Sunrise Casserole

Breakfast sausage adds a savory, meaty depth that forms the backbone of the casserole's flavor. You can choose mild or spicy depending on your preference. White bread provides a soft base that soaks up the egg mixture, creating a custard-like texture. Using day-old bread can help it hold up better. Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, creamy contrast that complements the sausage. Opt for freshly shredded cheese for the best meltability.

Eggs are the binding agent, holding everything together while adding richness. Whole milk ensures the mixture is creamy without being too heavy. Salt and black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the dish, while green onions offer a fresh, mild bite that cuts through the richness.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a spicier twist, use hot breakfast sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
  • To save time in the morning, assemble the entire casserole the night before and refrigerate. Simply bake it fresh in the morning.
  • If you prefer a firmer texture, use slightly stale bread, which absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier breakfast spread, serve it alongside crispy bacon or fresh fruit. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a mimosa can elevate your brunch to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
What can I use instead of white bread?
Sourdough or whole grain bread works well and adds a different texture and flavor. Just make sure it's slightly stale for the best results.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating the eggs are set.

Countryside Sunrise Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it's ready to go once your casserole is assembled. While that's heating up, grab a skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until it's browned and crumbly. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat and set the sausage aside for later.

Now, take a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Lay your white bread slices on the bottom of the dish, forming an even layer. If the slices don't fit perfectly, feel free to tear them a little to cover the base completely.

Next, evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the bread layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the sausage. This layering ensures that every bite is filled with cheesy, meaty goodness.

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in your baking dish, ensuring it covers the bread thoroughly. Finish by garnishing the top with chopped green onions.

Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set. Let it cool slightly before serving to make slicing easier.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for feeding a crowd — great for family gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
  • Make-ahead friendly — assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
  • Balanced flavors with savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melty cheese.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch — nothing fancy, just good, honest flavors.

Ingredients

1 lb breakfast sausage
6 slices of white bread
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain and set aside.
3. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and layer the slices of bread at the bottom.
4. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the bread.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.

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