This Country Breakfast Casserole is a hearty delight perfect for breakfast or brunch! Packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and potatoes, it’s filling and full of flavor.
One bite, and you’ll be hooked! I love making it on lazy weekends when I can enjoy a tasty meal with family. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old or slightly toasted bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy. You can use white bread, whole wheat, or even croissants for a twist! If you have gluten-free bread on hand, that can work too.
Breakfast Sausage: I always opt for pork sausage for its flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. You can even use vegetarian sausage if you’re avoiding meat.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to switch it up! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, or you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack and mozzarella for different flavors.
Eggs: Large eggs are standard, but if you need to make it egg-free, you could try a flaxseed meal mix or commercial egg replacers for a similar texture—although the flavor may vary.
How Do I Get the Casserole to Set Perfectly?
The key to a perfectly set casserole lies mainly in how you prepare the egg mixture and baking time. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Whisk the eggs well with milk to ensure they are fully mixed. This helps create a fluffy texture.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after pouring in the egg mixture. This allows the bread to soak up the liquid evenly.
- Keep an eye on the baking time. If it’s jiggly in the center, give it a bit more time. Ideally, it should be fully set.
Letting it cool for a few minutes before serving helps the casserole hold its shape when cut. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Country Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 slices of bread, cubed (preferably day-old or slightly toasted)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish (Optional):
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 45-50 minutes for baking, giving you a total time of around 1 hour and 5 minutes. Plus, you can let it cool for a few minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Next, place a skillet over medium heat and add your breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and crumbles easily—about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease before setting the sausage aside.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, spread the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Once that’s done, sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread cubes. It’s important to evenly distribute both ingredients for the best flavor.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried parsley if you’re using it. Whisk well to ensure everything is combined nicely.
5. Pour and Press:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage in the casserole dish. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid. You want it all to soak together beautifully!
6. Add Cheese:
Now it’s time for the cheese! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a delicious cheesy layer.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. It’s done when the center is set, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If it jiggles too much in the center, let it bake a little longer.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Right before serving, you can sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor! Grab your plates, and enjoy this hearty dish warm.
This Country Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and comforting bread—all baked to perfection!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While day-old bread is best, you can use any type you prefer, including whole wheat, sourdough, or croissants for a unique flavor. Just ensure that it’s sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! To make this casserole ahead of time, assemble it up to the point of baking and cover tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them briefly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are fully cooked and to prevent excess moisture.
