Start your day off right with a Hearty Morning Sausage Bake that's perfect for lazy weekends or feeding a hungry crowd. This savory dish combines the richness of eggs, the comfort of bread, and the deliciousness of breakfast sausage, all baked until golden and bubbly.
Breakfast sausage is the star of this dish, providing hearty and savory notes. Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a personalized touch. Eggs give structure and richness, while whole milk adds creaminess. A pinch of salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder brings out the flavors beautifully. Use day-old bread to soak up the egg mixture; it’s a great way to reduce waste and add texture. Shredded cheddar cheese melts to create a gooey, irresistible top. Finally, green onions offer a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Pair this sausage bake with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced breakfast. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy hash browns or a simple green salad. A dollop of sour cream or a splash of hot sauce can add an extra kick.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly once it goes in. While that's happening, grab a large skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. You want it browned and crumbled, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is well combined to avoid any pockets of seasoning. Stir in the cubed bread, cooked sausage, 1 1/2 cups of cheese, and half of the green onions. Gently fold the ingredients so that the bread absorbs the egg mixture evenly.
Pour this delightful mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This step adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness that will brown beautifully in the oven.
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the eggs are set and the top is a lovely golden brown. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with the remaining green onions. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.