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This Sausage Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a standout morning dish thanks to its perfect combination of savory flavors and satisfying texture.
The rich, hearty sausage paired with fluffy eggs and melted sharp cheddar makes every bite comforting yet energizing.
Beyond taste, it’s a protein-packed breakfast, providing a substantial boost to start your day, while being low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for low-carb or keto-friendly diets.
The inclusion of eggs adds essential vitamins and minerals, while good fats from cheese and sausage keep you full and focused throughout the morning.
Its one-dish preparation makes it extremely practical—perfect for meal prep, family breakfasts, or holiday gatherings—saving time while delivering a wholesome, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
9×13-Inch Casserole Dish
Essential for layering sausage, eggs, and cheese evenly. Perfect for baking breakfast casseroles, lasagna, or sheet-pan dinners, ensuring even cooking and easy serving.
Nonstick Skillet
Ideal for browning sausage without sticking. Its versatile design allows you to sauté vegetables, cook eggs, or sear meats effortlessly in everyday cooking.
Mixing Bowl
Perfect for whisking eggs, milk, and seasonings to a smooth, uniform consistency. Multipurpose use includes baking, marinating, or preparing salads.
Whisk
Ensures eggs and milk are fully combined for a fluffy texture. A kitchen staple for sauces, batters, and dressings, providing consistent results every time.
Spatula
Helps layer casserole ingredients and scrape every bit of mixture from bowls and pans. A multipurpose tool for mixing, folding, and serving with precision.
Hearty Sausage Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Equipment
- 1 9×13-inch casserole dish
- 1 Nonstick Skillet
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb Breakfast sausage
- 1 tbsp Dried minced onion
- 12 Large eggs
- ¾ cup Whole milk
- 1 tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Ground black pepper
- 1 cup Grated sharp cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Start by placing a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of breakfast sausage, breaking it into small crumbles with a spatula. Stir occasionally, allowing the sausage to cook evenly and develop a rich, golden-brown color. Once it begins to brown, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried minced onion. Continue to cook for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes fragrant and soft, enhancing the savory depth of the sausage. Reserve about 1/4 of the cooked sausage to use as a topping later, then transfer the remaining sausage directly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly to form a flavorful base layer.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack 12 large eggs and gently whisk them using a balloon whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined. Slowly pour in 3/4 cup of whole milk while continuing to whisk, creating a smooth, uniform mixture. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Whisk vigorously for at least one minute to ensure air is incorporated, which will contribute to a light, fluffy texture in the final casserole.
- Layer the First Cheese Portion: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of the grated sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the cooked sausage in the casserole dish. This initial cheese layer will melt into the sausage and egg mixture, adding a rich, creamy flavor that binds the layers together.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the prepared egg mixture over the sausage and cheese layers, ensuring it spreads evenly throughout the dish. Use a spatula to gently nudge the eggs into corners and edges to create a uniform layer. This careful pouring step helps the casserole cook evenly and prevents pockets of uncooked eggs.
- Initial Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. During this time, the eggs will begin to set while maintaining a creamy texture, and the flavors of the sausage, onion, and cheese will meld together beautifully. Check the casserole at the 30-minute mark; the edges should be set, but the center may still jiggle slightly.
- Add Topping Layers: Remove the casserole from the oven carefully. Evenly distribute the reserved cooked sausage over the partially baked casserole, followed by the remaining 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese. These topping layers will create a golden, bubbly finish once baked, adding extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Final Baking and Melting: Return the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and slightly golden, and the eggs are completely set. The center should no longer be runny, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Cooling and Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This brief cooling period helps the layers settle and makes it easier to cut into neat squares. Use a sharp knife to slice the casserole into 6–8 portions, depending on desired serving size. Serve warm, either as a hearty breakfast, brunch option, or for meal-prep convenience throughout the week.
Notes
- Use a 9×13-inch casserole dish for even cooking and perfect layering.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- You can substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a lighter option.
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the egg mixture.
- Leftover casserole can be reheated in the oven or microwave for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor, but other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby can also be used.
Chef’s Secrets for Ultimate Flavor
To elevate this breakfast casserole, use freshly ground black pepper and a high-quality breakfast sausage.
Browning the sausage until golden not only adds depth of flavor but also renders excess fat, preventing a greasy casserole.
Whisking the eggs and milk until frothy incorporates air, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture.
Layering the cheese both within and on top of the casserole ensures a melty, savory finish.
For a more complex flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture—these small touches can transform a simple casserole into a gourmet breakfast experience.
Serving Suggestions for Every Occasion
This casserole shines as a hearty breakfast or brunch centerpiece.
Pair it with fresh fruit, such as sliced oranges or berries, for a refreshing contrast to the savory sausage and cheese.
A side of lightly dressed greens or avocado slices adds color and nutrition.
For holiday breakfasts or potlucks, serve the casserole alongside warm biscuits, croissants, or muffins for a complete meal.
Individual slices can also be wrapped for on-the-go breakfasts, making it versatile for busy mornings.
Storage Tips to Preserve Freshness
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil; they can last up to 2 months.
Reheat refrigerated portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through.
For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat to maintain texture and flavor.
Avoid overheating to prevent eggs from becoming rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole a day before baking and refrigerate it overnight. Bake directly from the refrigerator, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s fully set.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely. Sharp cheddar works best for flavor, but Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheeses are excellent alternatives. Mixing cheeses can add a richer taste.
3. Can I substitute milk or sausage for dietary needs?
Yes. Milk can be substituted with unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk. For a lower-fat option, turkey sausage can replace traditional breakfast sausage without compromising flavor.
4. How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
Drain excess fat after browning the sausage and avoid overfilling the casserole with cheese. Using a nonstick skillet or a skillet with minimal oil also helps maintain a balanced texture.
5. Can I add vegetables or other mix-ins?
Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the egg mixture before baking. Just ensure they are finely chopped and sautéed lightly to avoid excess moisture.
This recipe is inspired by juliassimplysouthern and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
