Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of a warm, cheesy breakfast casserole that’s ready to serve! This Overnight Breakfast Egg Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to start your day with minimal effort. Perfect for busy mornings or special gatherings, this dish combines fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and crusty bread into a comforting masterpiece that can feed a crowd. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it up the night before and wake up to a delicious breakfast that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Are you ready to transform your breakfast routine? Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by generously greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Take the loaf of bread and cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles until fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease.
- Sprinkle the cooked, crumbled sausage evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and sausage in the baking dish, ensuring all ingredients are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the surface uniformly.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
- The next morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer jiggly.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Cut into squares and serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread. These types hold up well when soaked in the egg mixture.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the sausage for bacon or add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Let It Soak: Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration! Allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture overnight ensures a moist and flavorful casserole.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no more jiggle!
- Serve with Style: Garnish your casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Make Ahead for Special Occasions: This casserole is perfect for brunches, holidays, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd without the morning rush.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 250mg
