Lightning-Fast Sausage Casserole

A hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole packed with sausage, eggs, and cheese—perfect for busy mornings and guaranteed to please a crowd.

This casserole quickly became a family favorite for weekend breakfasts and potlucks due to its ease and satisfying taste.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: 1 pound (450 g), casings removed
• Diced bell peppers: 1 cup (120 g), any color
• Diced onion: 1/2 cup (60 g)
• Cubed day-old bread: 4 cups (200 g), white or whole wheat
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups (180 g)
• Large eggs: 8
• Milk: 1 1/2 cups (360 ml)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Smoked paprika (optional): 1/4 teaspoon
• Butter: 1 tablespoon, for greasing the baking dish

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3:

Add diced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4:

Spread cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked sausage and vegetables over the bread.

Step 5:

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage mixture.

Step 6:

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 7:

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.

Step 8:

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

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We often gather around this casserole on chilly mornings, making memories while enjoying simple, satisfying food together.

Required Tools

Large skillet, mixing bowls, whisk, 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains: Eggs, Milk (Dairy), Wheat (Gluten), and possibly Soy (in some sausages/bread). Check sausage and bread labels for additional allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: Calories 410, Total Fat 26 g, Carbohydrates 19 g, Protein 23 g

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Serve warm for best taste and store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe Guide

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the pork sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture.

→ What type of bread works best in the casserole?

Day-old white or whole wheat bread cubes absorb the egg mixture well without becoming too soggy, providing structure and a pleasant texture.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the layered ingredients and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving for convenience without sacrificing taste.

→ Is it necessary to cook the sausage before layering?

Cooking the sausage beforehand ensures it’s fully browned, reduces excess fat, and enhances overall flavor in the finished dish.

→ What adds a smoky flavor to this dish?

A small amount of smoked paprika can be included in the egg mixture to introduce a subtle smoky note without overwhelming other flavors.

→ Can I use different cheese types?

While shredded cheddar is recommended for its melt and flavor, other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mild gouda can be great alternatives.