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Get ready to transform your morning routine with this incredible Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole! It is a hearty, satisfying dish that combines all your breakfast favorites into one easy-to-make pan. Perfect for busy weekday mornings, relaxed family gatherings, or convenient meal prep, this casserole brings together a delicious blend of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, melted cheese, and tender potatoes. You will love how simple it is to prepare and how much it delights everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
This fantastic breakfast casserole quickly becomes a family favorite for many reasons:
- Effortlessly Easy: You can assemble it with minimal effort, making it ideal for beginner cooks or busy mornings.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe is perfect for brunches, holidays, or feeding a hungry family.
- Highly Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or proteins to suit any taste.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it the night before and simply bake it fresh in the morning for ultimate convenience.
- Comfort Food Perfection: Enjoy a warm, delicious, and satisfying dish that truly feels like a hug in a pan.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your savory Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole:
- 1 lb. breakfast sausage (pork, turkey, or plant-based)
- 1/2 of a 28 oz bag of frozen potatoes O’Brien
- 2 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso blanco is excellent, divided)
- 10 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Dash or two of white pepper
- Several grinds of black pepper
- 1/2 tbsp chopped chives
- Hot sauce (optional, for a little kick)
- Handful of spinach leaves (torn into pieces)
Notes & Substitutions
- Breakfast Sausage: You can use pork breakfast sausage for a classic flavor. Turkey sausage or plant-based sausage crumbles also work wonderfully for lighter or vegetarian options.
- Potatoes O’Brien: These are frozen diced potatoes mixed with bell peppers and onions, adding extra flavor and texture. If you cannot find them, substitute with regular frozen hash browns or cubed fresh potatoes.
- Cheese: Mexican blend cheese provides a great melty, savory profile. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Milk: Whole milk creates a rich, creamy egg base. For dairy-free versions, unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk are excellent alternatives.
- Vegetables: Boost the nutrition and flavor with sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, or extra bell peppers. Jalapeños add a welcome spice.
- Seasonings: Adjust the salt, pepper, and garlic powder to your liking. A pinch of smoked paprika or onion powder can also deepen the flavor profile.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this easy Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Here’s what you’ll use:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole everyone will love. Remember to work efficiently to enjoy this dish even faster!
Step 1: Prep Sausage & Preheat Oven
First, cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks until it is fully crumbled and browned. Drain any excess grease thoroughly; this prevents your casserole from becoming greasy. Set the cooked sausage aside. While the sausage cooks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Whisk Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 10 eggs, 1 1/2 cups whole milk, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, a dash or two of white pepper, and several grinds of black pepper. Add the 1/2 tbsp chopped chives and a dash of hot sauce, if you like a little heat. Whisk everything thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This ensures a uniform texture in your breakfast casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole Base
Generously spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. Evenly spread half of the 28 oz bag of frozen potatoes O’Brien across the bottom of the prepared dish. Distribute the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the potatoes. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheese over the sausage layer. Finally, lay the handful of torn spinach leaves over the cheese.
Step 4: Combine & Top
Carefully pour the whisked egg mixture over all the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Make sure the liquid distributes evenly. Gently tap the dish on the counter a few times to help the egg mixture settle into all the crevices. Finish by topping the entire casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. This will create a beautiful golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, check the casserole for doneness. The eggs should be set in the center, and the cheese on top should be melted and golden brown. If the eggs still appear jiggly or wet, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, checking every few minutes until fully cooked through. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole set properly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Casserole
Achieve breakfast perfection every time with these helpful tips and avoid common pitfalls:
- Don’t Overmix Eggs: Whisk until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tougher, less fluffy texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the egg mixture before adding it to the casserole. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for perfect flavor.
- Cover if Browning Too Quickly: If the top browns too fast, loosely tent the casserole with foil for the remaining bake time.
- Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can dry out the eggs, making them rubbery. Remove it from the oven as soon as the center is set.
- Resting Time: Always let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up and makes for cleaner slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining Sausage Properly: Excess fat will make your casserole greasy and watery.
- Using Too Many Watery Vegetables: If adding fresh vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, sauté them first to remove moisture.
- Baking Too High or Too Low Temperature: Follow the recipe’s temperature to ensure even cooking and a golden top.
- Not Greasing the Baking Dish: Always use cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
Serving Suggestions, Storage, and Variations
Make the most of your delicious Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole with these ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with fresh, complementary sides to complete your meal.
- Pair with a vibrant fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
- Offer an assortment of your favorite hot sauces for those who enjoy extra spice.
- Serve alongside warm toast, fluffy biscuits, or sweet muffins.
- Complement with freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, or a smoothie for a complete breakfast.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container or disposable pan for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
Variations & Add-ins
Get creative with your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole using these fun additions.
- Vegetables: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can add flavor and nutrients.
- Proteins: Substitute or add crispy bacon bits, diced ham, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles.
- Cheeses: Explore different cheese combinations like sharp cheddar, spicy pepper jack, creamy mozzarella, or nutty Gruyere.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of smoked paprika, a dash of onion powder, or some red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. The exact values will vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use. For precise calculations, we recommend using a reliable nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is generally a good source of protein and fat, providing sustained energy.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Estimate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400-500 kcal |
| Protein | 25-30 g |
| Total Fat | 30-35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10-15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 g |
| Sugars | 3-5 g |
| Cholesterol | 250-300 mg |
| Sodium | 800-1000 mg |
Disclaimer: These are approximate values and can vary significantly based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Always calculate based on your precise ingredients for accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have some questions about making this fantastic Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole? We’ve got answers!
- Can I assemble this casserole the night before? Absolutely! Prepare everything, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
- What kind of sausage is best for this recipe? Classic pork breakfast sausage offers rich flavor, but turkey or plant-based sausage also works well for a lighter twist. Choose your favorite!
- What are Potatoes O’Brien? They are a convenient frozen mix of diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, perfect for adding quick flavor and texture to your casserole.
- How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked? The eggs should be set in the center, not jiggly, and a knife inserted should come out clean. The top will also be golden brown.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, easily! Simply swap the whole milk for unsweetened dairy-free milk and use your favorite shredded dairy-free cheese alternative.
Conclusion
This ultimate Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole truly makes breakfast simple and delicious, perfect for any occasion. It is incredibly versatile, easy to customize, and guaranteed to please everyone at your table. Whether you are feeding a crowd or simply preparing for a busy week, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. We encourage you to try this fantastic dish soon! Share your feedback and enjoy every savory bite of this crowd-pleasing breakfast solution.
According to FoodSafety.gov, cooked casseroles can be safely refrigerated for 3 to 4 days and frozen for 1 to 2 months.
The Ultimate Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1/2 bag frozen potatoes o’brien of a 28oz bag
- 2 cups shredded cheese Mexican blend, divided
- 10 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- white pepper dash or two
- black pepper several grinds
- 1/2 tbsp chopped chives
- hot sauce optional
- spinach leaves torn into pieces
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook and crumble the breakfast sausage in a pan, then set it aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, garlic powder, white pepper, black pepper, chives, and hot sauce, then set this mixture aside.
- Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray, then layer half of the frozen potatoes, followed by the cooked sausage, 1 cup of cheese, and the spinach. Pour the egg mixture over the layers and top with the remaining cup of shredded cheese.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated 350°F oven for 40 minutes, checking for the eggs to be fully set; if needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes until cooked through. Enjoy your breakfast casserole!
Notes
A 40-year-old chef from Mexico City, has dedicated his life to perfecting the art of Mexican cuisine. Raised in a family with a deep passion for cooking, Carlos drew inspiration from the traditional recipes passed down by his grandmother. After studying culinary arts and gaining experience in top Mexican restaurants, he pursued his dream of opening his own restaurant, Sabor de Tradición. Here, he combines authentic Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques. Carlos is renowned for his creativity and unwavering commitment to honoring his heritage while also pushing the boundaries of Mexican cuisine
