Pancake Sausage Casserole
Pancake Sausage Casserole is a delicious and hearty breakfast dish that combines fluffy pancakes and savory sausage all baked together in one easy-to-make meal. The soft texture of the pancakes…
Tip: save now, cook later.Pancake Sausage Casserole is a delicious and hearty breakfast dish that combines fluffy pancakes and savory sausage all baked together in one easy-to-make meal. The soft texture of the pancakes perfectly balances the rich, flavorful sausage, making every bite comforting and satisfying. It’s a fantastic twist on traditional breakfast that brings something special to the table without a ton of effort.
I love making this casserole for busy mornings or weekend brunches when I want something that feels indulgent but is also simple to prepare ahead of time. The best part is letting it bake while you get ready or gather your family, and then serving it up warm and gooey with a drizzle of syrup. I find that adding a little spice to the sausage or mixing in some cheese makes it even better, but it’s delicious just as it is too.
When I bring this to friends or family, everyone always asks for the recipe because it’s a fun, shareable meal that feels like a treat without being complicated. It’s perfect when you have a crowd or just want to mix up your usual breakfast routine. Trust me, once you try this Pancake Sausage Casserole, it will quickly become one of those go-to dishes you keep coming back to again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is the flavor star of the dish. You can swap mild sausage with spicy if you like more heat. Or use turkey sausage for a leaner option, which still tastes great.
Pancake Batter: Homemade batter gives you control over flavor and texture, but store-bought works well for convenience. If gluten-free, use a gluten-free pancake mix.
Eggs & Milk: These create a rich custard that holds the casserole together. For dairy-free, try almond or oat milk, and replace eggs with a commercial egg substitute or flax eggs.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharpness. Use other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste.
How Can I Layer the Casserole Without Making a Mess?
Layering is simple if you take it step-by-step and use gentle motions. Here’s how I do it:
- Start by spreading a thin, even layer of pancake batter to form a base—this prevents the sausage from sinking.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage evenly so every bite has meat.
- Sprinkle cheese carefully so it covers the sausage but doesn’t overwhelm.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly over the layer to prevent it from washing away ingredients.
- Repeat layers gently and avoid pressing down too hard when adding each layer.
Take your time, and cleaning up any spills quickly helps keep everything neat. This technique gives you a layered, tender casserole that bakes evenly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – perfect size to layer the casserole and bake evenly.
- Large skillet – great for browning the sausage and cooking it thoroughly.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need these to whisk eggs, milk, and prepare pancake batter.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly without lumps.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – essential for stirring and layering ingredients gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for crumbled bacon or diced ham for a different smoky flavor.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or onions with the sausage for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Try adding shredded mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar for a milder or spicier cheese kick.
- Stir in some fresh herbs like chives or thyme into the egg mixture for fresh, aromatic notes.
Pancake Sausage Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sausage and Batter:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 2 cups pancake batter (homemade or store-bought)
For The Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For The Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Butter or oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation, including cooking the sausage and mixing the ingredients, plus 40 to 45 minutes baking time. Allow an additional 5 minutes for cooling before cutting and serving. So, roughly an hour from start to enjoying a warm, hearty breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your breakfast sausage, breaking it up until fully browned and cooked through. Drain any extra grease and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix Your Pancake Batter and Egg Mixture:
Prepare your pancake batter—either from scratch or ready-made. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
3. Layer the Casserole:
Start by pouring about one-third of the pancake batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Add a layer of cooked sausage over the batter, then sprinkle one-third of your shredded cheddar cheese on top. Carefully pour one-third of the egg mixture evenly over the layers. Repeat this layering two more times, finishing with a layer of pancake batter and sausage on top.
4. Add Final Touches and Bake:
Sprinkle any remaining cheddar cheese over the top layer and add a dash of dried parsley if you like. Place the casserole uncovered in your preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole feels set in the middle.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and if you like, offer syrup on the side to add a delicious sweet and savory twist to this hearty meal.
Can I Make Pancake Sausage Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Absolutely, just be sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave, then cook as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Cheddar Cheese?
You can swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you want a little more spice. Choose a cheese that melts well for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
