Ah, the magic of breakfast casseroles! Honestly, there’s something so comforting and satisfying about waking up to the aroma of sausage and eggs wafting through the house. One of my absolute favorite recipes is this Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole. I remember making it for the first time as a new mom, aiming to impress my in-laws during their visit. I whipped it up the night before and popped it in the oven in the morning. The look of sheer bliss on their faces made all the prep worth it. I mean, who doesn’t want a delicious breakfast waiting for them when they wake up?
What’s truly great about this casserole is not just the flavors—it’s that you can customize it to your heart’s content. Need to use up some leftover veggies? Toss them in! Want to swap out the cheese for something a bit funkier? You do you, friend! It’s a forgiving recipe that allows creativity to shine. Let’s gather our ingredients and dive into how to create this tasty masterpiece!
What’s in Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole?
Breakfast Sausage: The star of the show! I’m a big fan of using pork sausage for its rich flavor, but don’t shy away from turkey sausage if you’re looking for a healthier spin.
Large Eggs: These provide the protein-packed base that holds everything together. The more, the merrier!
Milk: I typically use whole milk for creaminess, but skim or any dairy alternative works too if you’d like to lighten it up.
Bread: White or whole wheat; both work great! The bread soaks up all the flavors and becomes wonderfully soft yet retains a little texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Because, let’s be real—cheese makes everything better! I like using sharp cheddar for that extra kick, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack if you’re feeling adventurous.
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings to elevate the dish’s overall flavor.
Garlic Powder (Optional): If you’re a garlic lover like me, sprinkle this in for an added layer of flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of this vibrant herb adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.
Is Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely! While it is rich, it can certainly fit into a balanced diet. Here’s the breakdown:
Protein from Eggs and Sausage: Eggs are packed with protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. The sausage adds even more protein and flavor which is perfect for keeping you full until lunchtime.
Calcium from Milk and Cheese: Both ingredients contribute to your daily calcium intake, supporting bone health—so, let’s lift our glasses of milk in appreciation!
Whole Grains from Bread: If you go for whole wheat bread, you’ll gain some fiber too, which is great for digestion.
However, keep in mind, if you are watching your cholesterol or sodium intake, you might want to limit portion sizes or consider options like turkey sausage and low-fat cheese. It’s all about balance!
Ingredients List
For 8 servings, you’ll need:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 8 slices of bread (preferably white or whole wheat)
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole?
1. Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Let’s set the stage for this delicious creation!
2. Next, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s beautifully browned and fully cooked. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease, because—let’s be honest—nobody wants a greasy casserole!
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re opting for it. Mix until everything is well blended.
4. Cut the bread into cubes, and layer half of these cubed pieces in the bottom of your greased baking dish.
5. Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the bread layer, then follow up with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
6. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layers, making sure to cover every nook and cranny.
7. Now, top it off with the remaining bread cubes and sprinkle some additional cheese on top. Yes, more cheese is always a good idea!
8. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, letting those flavors mingle. (Trust me, this step is crucial!)
9. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, allowing it to warm slightly.
11. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and bubbly—your kitchen is about to smell like heaven!
12. Lastly, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley before serving for that restaurant-style finish!
Brunch Brilliance!
This Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole is perfect for brunch, family gatherings, or even a cozy breakfast-for-dinner night! The best part? You can customize it with your favorite vegetables—bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Not to mention, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just pop a slice in the microwave, and you have a quick, hearty meal ready to go!
So, roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try. I promise it’ll become a staple in your breakfast repertoire! I’d love to hear how it goes, so drop a comment or share your variations. Happy cooking!
