Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a fantastic breakfast or brunch dish that brings together savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey melted cheese all baked into one comforting casserole. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy morning, yet satisfying enough to share with family and friends at a weekend gathering. The sausage adds a nice hearty flavor while the eggs keep it light and protein-packed.
I love making this casserole the night before and popping it in the oven in the morning. It’s such a stress-free way to have a warm, home-cooked breakfast ready without rushing. Plus, the leftovers reheat well for a quick meal later in the week. One little tip I’ve learned is to add a splash of milk or cream to the eggs before baking—this keeps them extra tender and creamy.
Serving it with a side of fresh fruit or some crusty toast makes a great balanced meal that everyone enjoys. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a filling breakfast for the week ahead, this Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a winner that I always come back to when I’m craving comfort without fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds the hearty, savory flavor. If you want a leaner option, try turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage crumbles or cooked mushrooms.
Eggs: Eggs are the base and give the casserole its fluffy texture. You can swap some eggs for egg whites if you want it lighter but keep the creaminess by adding a splash of milk or cream.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts well and gives great flavor. You can use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a little kick. For dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives.
Milk: Milk keeps the eggs tender. Whole or 2% milk works best, but almond, oat, or soy milk can work for dairy-free diets. Just avoid flavored varieties.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Comes Out Soft and Not Dry?
The key is to balance your eggs and milk to keep moisture and tenderness. Here’s how:
- Whisk eggs and milk well until slightly frothy. This helps trap air and gives a lighter texture.
- Don’t overbake. Start checking around 30 minutes. The casserole should be set but still slightly jiggly in the middle.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking. The residual heat finishes cooking and avoids dryness.
- Using enough cheese adds moisture and richness too.
Also, cooking your sausage and onions well but draining excess grease prevents an oily casserole. Patience in baking makes all the difference here!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – makes whisking eggs and milk together simple and spill-free.
- Skillet or frying pan – for cooking and browning the sausage before baking.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly, giving a fluffy casserole.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – great for stirring sausage and scraping the bowl.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage with cooked bacon or diced ham for a smoky twist.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
- Mix in some diced mushrooms for a rich earthy flavor that pairs well with sausage.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a mild spicy kick.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including cooking the sausage and mixing the eggs. Baking time is around 30-35 minutes, plus a 5-minute resting period before serving. So, total time is roughly 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter so the casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any grease. If you want, sauté the finely chopped onion in the same pan until it becomes soft and translucent.
3. Mix Eggs and Seasonings
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper together until the mix is well combined and slightly frothy. This helps make the casserole light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the cooked sausage (and onions, if using) evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Then, pour the egg mixture over everything, making sure it spreads out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top.
5. Bake and Rest
Place the dish in your oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. The casserole should be set (not jiggly) and the top nicely golden brown. Take it out and let it rest for 5 minutes to finish cooking and make it easier to slice.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with dried parsley or chives if desired. Cut into squares and serve warm with toast or fresh fruit for a delicious meal everyone will love.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking it. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add sautéed peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or onions to the sausage mixture before baking. Just make sure any vegetables are pre-cooked to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
