This hearty sausage breakfast casserole is made with just four simple ingredients: sausage, eggs, bread, and cheese! It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends.
With a cozy mix of flavors, it’s like a warm hug on a plate. I love making this on Sunday for a tasty start to the week. Trust me, your mornings will thank you for this deliciousness!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can choose mild for a gentle flavor or spicy for a kick! If you don’t eat pork, turkey or chicken sausage will work too. Veggie sausage is another great alternative for a plant-based option.
Eggs: Fresh large eggs bring great flavor and texture. If you need to avoid eggs, try a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) as a substitute.
Cubed Bread: Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can freshen up regular bread by toasting it lightly first. Gluten-free bread is also a good option if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: I suggest sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can be substituted for a dairy-free dish.
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture for your casserole means paying attention to baking time and temperature. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Preheat your oven properly. An accurate temperature helps the eggs set correctly while not overbaking the cheese.
- Check for doneness around the 25-minute mark. The casserole is ready when the center is set and not jiggly.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This allows it to firm up a bit more before slicing.
By keeping an eye on these details, you’ll have a delicious and well-cooked breakfast casserole every time!
4 Ingredient Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 6 large eggs
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old white or Texas toast works well)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, making it a perfect 45-minute dish to have sunrise ready. Plus, it’s so worth the wait for that gooey cheese and savory sausage!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter—this will help prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until well combined. Now, add the cubed bread and the cooked sausage to the eggs. Gently stir everything together until the bread is evenly coated with the egg mixture.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Take your mixture and transfer it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top for that cheesy goodness.
5. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. It’s done when the eggs are set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it around the 25-minute mark!
6. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing it up. If you’d like, you can garnish it with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color!
Enjoy a simple, hearty breakfast casserole with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While day-old white bread or Texas toast works great, you can also use whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to absorb the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before! Just mix the ingredients, cover the bowl, and refrigerate. In the morning, pour it into the baking dish, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake. It may take an extra few minutes in the oven if starting cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Add More Ingredients?
Certainly! Feel free to customize by adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or onions for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also mix in different types of cheese for a unique twist!
