Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or a laid-back weekend brunch. It combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and soft bread…
Tip: save now, cook later.Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or a laid-back weekend brunch. It combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and soft bread or hashbrowns, all soaked overnight so the flavors meld together beautifully. The best part? You just pop it in the oven the next morning, and it comes out golden and ready to enjoy!
I love making this casserole the night before because it saves so much time when everyone’s hungry and ready to eat. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a treat but really just uses everyday ingredients. I usually toss in a bit of bell pepper or onion for some extra flavor and a sprinkle of cheese on top, which makes it even more irresistible. It always gets compliments, especially from those who don’t usually like breakfast casseroles!
When it comes to serving, I like to cut it into squares and serve it with some fresh fruit or a simple green salad on the side. It’s great for feeding a crowd, and leftovers reheat wonderfully during the week. This casserole has become a go-to recipe for me whenever I’m hosting friends or family because it’s comforting, filling, and super easy to pull together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This gives the casserole its meaty, flavorful base. I prefer pork sausage for its juiciness, but turkey sausage is a leaner option that works well and is great for those watching fat intake.
Eggs & Milk: These bind the casserole together and create a custard-like texture. Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk or even unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free twist.
Bread or Hashbrowns: Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture nicely. I enjoy using French bread or brioche for a richer taste. Frozen shredded hashbrowns are a quick alternative that gives a slightly different texture but still tasty.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor and melts beautifully. You can swap it with Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar if you want milder cheese.
Onion and Seasonings: Adding finely chopped onion gives an extra layer of flavor. Garlic powder, salt, and pepper are simple but important to round out the taste. Fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
How Do You Get the Best Texture in an Overnight Casserole?
The key to a perfect texture is letting the bread or potatoes soak up the egg mixture fully. Here’s how I do it:
- Whisk eggs and milk well for an even custard base.
- Mix in the sausage, bread or hashbrowns, and cheese thoroughly to coat all pieces.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours to allow soaking.
- Before baking, add extra cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
- Bake uncovered so the edges crisp up while the center stays tender.
This slow soak gives the casserole soft insides and a slightly crisp top, making every bite satisfying. Another tip: let it rest 5-10 minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes cutting easier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk eggs and combine all ingredients comfortably.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook the sausage and soften onions before mixing.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, milk, and seasonings smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts and consistent results.
- Plastic wrap or foil – to cover the casserole while it soaks overnight in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham for a smoky twist.
- Add sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms for extra veggies and color.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped fresh spinach or kale to boost greens without changing the taste much.
Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups day-old bread cubes (such as French bread or brioche) or 4 cups frozen shredded hashbrowns
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
Seasonings and Extras:
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare the night before, plus at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) chilling time to soak. When you’re ready to bake it in the morning, plan on 45 to 55 minutes in the oven, plus 5 to 10 minutes resting after baking before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sausage and Onion:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles. If using onion, add it halfway through cooking and sauté until soft. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
2. Mix the Filling:
Cut your day-old bread into cubes if using bread, or thaw frozen shredded hashbrowns if using potatoes. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Stir in the bread cubes or hashbrowns, cooked sausage (and onions if added), and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, making sure everything is evenly coated.
3. Assemble and Chill Overnight:
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight. This soaking time lets the bread or potatoes absorb the egg mixture for the best texture.
4. Bake and Serve:
The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F if you haven’t already. Remove the casserole from the fridge and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh or dried parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious, hearty Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole! It’s perfect with fresh fruit or a light salad on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage as long as it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cook it thoroughly before adding to the casserole.
Can I Make This Casserole Without Bread?
Absolutely! Using frozen shredded hashbrowns instead of bread cubes works great and gives a lovely texture. Just make sure the hashbrowns are thawed and drained if needed before mixing.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms when cooking the sausage for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté the veggies with the sausage until tender before mixing everything together.
