Introduction
Let’s be honest, mornings can be a scramble, even on the weekends. But what if you could wake up to the aroma of a hearty, comforting breakfast without lifting a finger until it’s time to bake? Enter the Overnight Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole—a true marvel for those who cherish both a delicious start to the day and a little extra sleep. This dish isn’t just about convenience; it’s about layering rich, savory flavors into a casserole that bakes up golden brown and bubbly, perfect for family brunches, holiday gatherings, or simply making a Tuesday feel like a Saturday. Prepare it the night before, pop it in the oven when you rise, and enjoy a stress-free, deeply satisfying meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
* 1 lb mild or spicy bulk breakfast sausage
* 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
* 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
* 10-12 slices day-old bread (sourdough, brioche, or white bread work wonderfully), torn or cubed
* 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
* 12 large eggs
* 2 cups whole milk
* 1 tsp dry mustard
* ½ tsp salt
* ¼ tsp black pepper
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
* Butter or cooking spray for greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Evening Preparation:
1. Cook the Sausage and Veggies: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the torn or cubed bread evenly over the bottom of the dish. Top with the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture, spreading it out to cover the bread. Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage layer.
3. Layer the Remaining Bread and Cheese: Add the remaining half of the bread cubes over the cheese. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the second layer of bread.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, dry mustard, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper until well combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring all the bread is thoroughly soaked.
5. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, creating a wonderfully cohesive texture.
Morning Baking:
1. Preheat Oven: The next morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Uncover the casserole and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until it’s puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can lightly tent it with aluminum foil.
3. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the casserole set, making for cleaner cuts.
Expert Tips
For an even better texture, use slightly stale bread or lightly toast fresh bread cubes before assembling. This prevents the casserole from becoming soggy and provides a delightful chew. When whisking the eggs, avoid over-beating; you want them combined, not frothy. Covering the casserole during the first 30 minutes of baking can help ensure it cooks through evenly before the cheese gets too browned. Always allow your casserole to rest after baking; it continues to cook slightly and firms up, making serving much easier and preventing it from falling apart. This dish is also fantastic for meal prep; bake it on Sunday, portion it out, and reheat individual servings throughout the week for quick breakfasts.
Variations
The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability. For a different cheesy profile, try a mix of Monterey Jack and Colby, or a touch of smoked gouda for depth. If you prefer a meatier option, crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even vegetarian breakfast sausage can be swapped in. Introduce more vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach (wilted before adding), or roasted sweet potato cubes for added nutrition and flavor. A dash of hot sauce in the egg mixture or some chopped green chilies can amp up the spice. Feel free to experiment with different breads—cubed croissants or even English muffins can offer a unique twist to the texture.
Conclusion
This Overnight Sausage & Egg Breakfast Casserole truly embodies the spirit of smart, delicious cooking. It’s a dish that takes the pressure off busy mornings, allowing you to savor precious time with loved ones while still enjoying a hearty, homemade meal. With its golden crust, savory sausage, and fluffy eggs, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So go ahead, prep it tonight, and wake up to the delicious promise of a perfect breakfast tomorrow. Happy cooking, and even happier mornings!
