If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, all-in-one breakfast dish, this Hearty Sausage and Egg Casserole is about to become your new best friend. It’s a savory delight that combines the flavors of a classic breakfast into an easy, crowd-pleasing bake. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a potluck, this casserole is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
The magic starts with breakfast sausage, adding a savory, meaty base. It’s browned to perfection, infusing the dish with rich flavor. Next, eggs are whisked with whole milk to create a creamy custard that holds everything together. The mix of shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese provides the gooey, melty finish we all crave. White bread cubes act like sponges, soaking up all the goodness. A touch of salt and black pepper balances the flavors, while green onions and red bell pepper add a fresh, colorful contrast. Lastly, a bit of unsalted butter keeps everything from sticking while adding a touch of richness.
This casserole is a meal in itself, but if you want to round it out, serve it alongside a simple green salad or some fresh fruit. A glass of orange juice or a mimosa pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your trusty 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with that tablespoon of butter. This prep step ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Next, take your breakfast sausage and cook it in a skillet over medium heat. What you’re aiming for is browned and crumbled sausage — it should be cooked through, with no pink in sight. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat so you’re left with just the flavorful bits.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is your binding agent, so make sure it’s well combined. You want the eggs to be fully incorporated with the milk for a smooth pour later on.
Cut your white bread into cubes, approximately one-inch pieces. Spread these cubes evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This layer will form the base of your casserole, providing structure and texture.
Once your bread cubes are in place, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over them. Try to distribute it so every bite gets some of that savory goodness. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage, making sure it soaks in thoroughly.
Now for the cheesy layer: sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, followed by the chopped green onions and red bell pepper. These toppings not only add flavor but also create a beautiful, colorful top.
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’re looking for the eggs to be set and the top to have a lovely golden-brown hue. When it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing in. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes serving easier.