The Ultimate Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole: Easy, Make-Ahead Morning Perfection

The ultimate comfort food mornings start here with this incredible Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Whether you are hosting a holiday brunch, preparing for a busy week, or simply craving a savory, hearty start to your day, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal morning effort. It is the gold standard of breakfast bakes packed with savory sausage, fluffy bread that perfectly absorbs the rich custard, and copious amounts of sharp cheddar cheese. The secret to its success? The crucial overnight soak that transforms simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying, perfectly textured casserole.

Forget dry, crumbly breakfast bakes. This recipe guarantees a creamy, moist interior and a beautifully golden, cheesy crust every single time. It’s designed to be assembled the night before, meaning your job on a lazy Saturday morning or a hectic Christmas day is simply to preheat the oven and enjoy the aroma. Dive into this essential guide to mastering the best Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole you will ever make!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

The popularity of a great Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole isn’t accidental; it solves the perennial problem of serving a hot, complete, and impressive meal without being chained to the stove. This specific recipe stands out due to several key factors that guarantee a superior result, making it a staple in any busy kitchen.

Effortless Morning Magic: The Overnight Advantage

The most compelling reason to fall in love with this recipe is its make-ahead potential. Traditional breakfast preparation often involves juggling frying eggs, browning meat, and baking all simultaneously. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole flips the script entirely. Step 7 is paramount: chilling the dish overnight. This extended soak time allows the egg custard (the mixture of eggs, milk, and seasonings) to fully saturate the bread cubes. When you pull the casserole out of the oven, the bread isn’t just sitting in liquid; it’s transformed into a light, tender vehicle for the savory sausage and melted cheese.

Imagine waking up to the smell of baking sausage and cheese, knowing the hardest part of the meal the chopping, mixing, and layering was completed the night before. This convenience makes it an absolute lifesaver for holiday mornings like Christmas or Easter, or even just for meal prepping a delicious weekday breakfast for the family.

The Perfect Flavor and Texture Balance

Many simple breakfast casseroles rely heavily on cream of mushroom soup or other condensed ingredients, which can lead to an artificially heavy or overly salty flavor. This recipe relies on high-quality basics: sharp cheddar cheese, whole milk (or luxurious half-and-half), and dry mustard powder. The dry mustard is an optional, but highly recommended, ingredient that doesn’t make the casserole taste like mustard; instead, it provides a subtle tang that enhances the savory notes of the cheese and the richness of the sausage, cutting through the fat for a more balanced bite.

Furthermore, the texture achieved here is ideal. The bread is soft and spongy, the sausage is flavorful and chewy, and the cheese creates gooey pockets throughout the bake and a crisp, browned layer on top. It’s savory, satisfying, and never, ever dry, provided you follow the crucial soaking step.

A Crowd Pleaser That Scales Easily

Served straight from a 9×13 inch dish, this recipe is designed for sharing. It easily feeds 8 to 10 people, making it perfect for brunch gatherings, potlucks, or fueling a large family before a busy day. If you need to feed a truly massive crowd, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in two separate dishes or one very large roasting pan (adjusting baking time slightly). The simple, comforting flavors of sausage, bread, and cheese are universally appealing, ensuring that even picky eaters will enjoy a serving of this hearty breakfast bake.

For those looking for other comforting, savory bakes to serve alongside or during other meals, consider checking out this fantastic recipe for Cream Cheese Sausage Balls another perfect make-ahead appetizer utilizing the same delicious flavor profile.

Why You Should Try This Easy Breakfast Casserole Recipe Today

If you haven’t yet found your go-to recipe for an overnight breakfast casserole, this is the one to bookmark. Beyond just convenience and flavor, this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole offers versatility and a straightforward approach to cooking that minimizes stress and maximizes enjoyment, positioning it as one of the best savory breakfast dishes you can master.

Simplicity in Preparation

The preparation process for this recipe is remarkably uncomplicated. It requires minimal knife work (just dicing the bread) and primarily relies on layering and whisking. Even novice cooks can achieve flawless results because the technique is forgiving. You brown the sausage, layer the ingredients, whisk the liquid, pour, and wait. The hard work is truly done by the ingredients themselves as they marry together during the chilling process.

The time investment is minimal about 15 to 20 minutes of active prep time in the evening, and then 50 minutes of passive baking the following morning. This makes it infinitely superior to recipes that require constant monitoring or complex sauce making.

The Savory Breakfast Powerhouse

While sweet options like pancakes and French toast are delicious, sometimes you need a meal that provides substantial, stick-to-your-ribs fuel. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a powerhouse of protein and complex carbohydrates, ensuring sustained energy throughout the morning. The combination of ten eggs and a pound of bulk sausage ensures that every serving is nutrient-dense and satisfying.

This is especially important if you are planning a busy day of activity or hosting guests who need a solid meal before traveling. It’s not just tasty; it’s genuinely filling and nutritious, especially when paired with a fresh fruit salad on the side.

Flexibility for Dietary Needs and Preferences

While the classic recipe calls for standard ingredients, it is remarkably flexible. You can easily adapt the base layers to suit different tastes or requirements. Need a little spice? Swap the mild sausage for hot Italian sausage. Prefer a different texture? Substitute the standard white bread for sourdough or brioche. If you are preparing breakfast for someone who prefers comfort food with a bit of a kick, you could even add a layer of diced jalapeños before pouring the custard.

This adaptability ensures that the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole can remain a favorite, evolving with your family’s preferences. The foundation the rich, seasoned egg custard and cheese remains delicious, no matter which savory add-ins you choose. For another great savory comfort dish, especially perfect for a cold evening, take a look at our Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Casserole.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Success in making the perfect Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole starts with having the right components and tools. This recipe relies on standard pantry and refrigerator staples, but the quality of a few key items, like the cheese and milk, truly elevates the final dish.

Detailed Ingredient List

Always measure your ingredients precisely. For optimal results in this savory breakfast bake, we recommend using fresh, high-quality products.

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): Use your preferred flavor. If you drain the sausage well, either option works perfectly without adding excessive grease to the final casserole.
• 6 slices day-old bread: This should be thick-sliced bread (standard white or sourdough work best). Crusts can be removed or left on, but the key is dicing it into uniform 1-inch cubes. This yields about 4 cups total. Using slightly stale, or “day-old,” bread is essential as it absorbs the custard better without turning mushy.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: We highly recommend shredding cheese from a block rather than buying pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts significantly better and results in a much creamier texture within the casserole.
• 10 large eggs: The protein backbone of the casserole. Ensure they are whisked vigorously to incorporate air, which helps keep the custard light.
• 2 cups whole milk: Whole milk provides the necessary fat content for a rich custard. For an unbelievably decadent result, substitute half-and-half or even heavy cream for half the milk.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the large volume of eggs and milk.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best for maximum flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional, but recommended): This ingredient is a secret weapon in cheese and egg dishes. It boosts the savory, cheesy flavor without being noticeable as mustard.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): A touch of garlic powder adds depth and complexity, complementing the sausage beautifully.
• Cooking spray or butter: For greasing the baking dish, preventing sticking.

The Role of Bread and Cheese in the Overnight Casserole

The choice of bread is crucial for texture. While sliced white bread is standard, using bread with a sturdier crumb, like challah or brioche (if you don’t mind a touch of sweetness), can provide an even more stable base. The 1-inch cube size is important; smaller cubes risk turning to paste, while larger cubes might not fully saturate.

Regarding cheese, while sharp cheddar offers the classic, tangy flavor profile expected in a Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole, feel free to experiment with a Colby Jack blend or Monterey Jack for a milder, stretchier melt. Just ensure you use the full 2 cups for proper coverage and cheesiness.

Recommended Tools and Utensils

You don’t need highly specialized equipment for this savory breakfast casserole, but having the right tools makes the assembly process smoother and ensures consistent cooking results.

Essential Kitchen Tools:

• 9×13 Inch Baking Dish (or Casserole Dish): This standard size is perfect for the quantity of ingredients listed. Ensure it is at least 2 inches deep to contain the egg custard. Glass or ceramic is ideal for even heat distribution.
• Large Skillet or Frying Pan: Used specifically for browning and draining the bulk sausage.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Necessary for vigorously whisking the 10 eggs and the 2 cups of milk to create the custard base.
• Whisk or Hand Mixer: A sturdy whisk is essential for ensuring the eggs and milk are fully combined and the seasonings are evenly dissolved.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Useful for breaking up the sausage while cooking and for gently pressing down the bread layer before chilling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in measurements, especially for salt and liquids, prevents an overly seasoned or watery casserole.
• Colander: Absolutely required for draining the excess grease from the cooked sausage.
• Plastic Wrap or Aluminum Foil: Essential for tightly covering the casserole during the critical overnight soaking phase.

Investing in a good quality 9×13 baking dish is highly recommended, as it is the backbone of many comfort food recipes, including this hearty Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole and other layered dishes like our popular Jiffy Corn Casserole.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Mastering the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

The success of this make-ahead dish hinges on two critical phases: proper layering and sufficient chilling time. Follow these detailed instructions closely for the best possible results.

Step 1: Preparing the Pan and the Sausage

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a standard 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or soft butter. Pay attention to the corners and sides to prevent any sticking. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: Place the bulk breakfast sausage (1 pound) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage, using a spatula or wooden spoon to break it up into small, even crumbles. Continue cooking until it is completely browned and cooked through, typically about 7–10 minutes.
3. Drain the Grease: This step is vital! Drain off all excess grease from the cooked sausage using a colander. Residual grease will make the finished casserole oily and heavy. Once drained, set the sausage aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Assembling the Base Layers

1. Lay the Bread Base: Scatter the cubed bread (6 slices diced into 1-inch cubes) evenly across the bottom of the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Try to make a single, consistent layer, minimizing large gaps.
2. Add the Sausage: Sprinkle the cooled and drained sausage evenly over the layer of bread cubes. Distribute the sausage as uniformly as possible so every slice of the finished casserole gets a good amount of meat.

Step 3: Adding the Cheese and Preparing the Custard

1. Layer the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage and bread layers. The cheese should coat the top layer, ready to melt down into the base.
2. Prepare the Egg Custard: In the large bowl, vigorously whisk the 10 large eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy. The frothiness helps create a lighter final product.
3. Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk (or half-and-half). Add the salt (1 tsp), black pepper (1/2 tsp), dry mustard powder (1 tsp, if using), and garlic powder (1/4 tsp, if using). Continue whisking the mixture until the spices are thoroughly dissolved and incorporated into the liquid. Taste the custard mix briefly it should taste well-seasoned.

Step 4: Saturation and the Crucial Soak

1. Saturate the Casserole: Slowly and evenly pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers in the baking dish. Start pouring near the edges and work your way inward, ensuring all the bread cubes are fully moistened.
2. Encourage Absorption: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press down on the top layer. This helps the bread cubes on the surface absorb the liquid rather than just floating on top.
3. Chill and Soak (Crucial Step): Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate the casserole for a minimum of 3 hours, or ideally, overnight (8 to 12 hours). This soaking period is non-negotiable for achieving that fluffy, moist, non-soggy texture in your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

Step 5: Baking and Checking for Doneness

1. Preheat and Temper: About 30 minutes before you plan to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator. This allows it to come slightly closer to room temperature, which ensures more even baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the Casserole: Remove the plastic wrap or foil from the dish. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes.
3. Check for Doneness: The casserole is finished when the center is set (no longer jiggly), the edges are golden brown, and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly (e.g., after 30 minutes), loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking time to prevent burning the cheese.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Rest: Remove the finished Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is essential as it allows the internal custard to set completely, ensuring the slices hold their shape.
2. Serve: Cut into squares and enjoy this perfect savory breakfast!

For more baking inspiration and savory recipes perfect for sharing, be sure to follow my board on Pinterest: Recipes Amaya Blog.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Your Savory Breakfast Bake

One of the best qualities of this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is how easily it adapts to substitutions and additions. Here are some expert tips and variations to ensure your bake is flawless every time.

Ingredient Alternatives and Flavor Boosts

Meat Substitutions

If you need to change the protein source, the structure of the casserole remains the same. You still need about 1 pound of pre-cooked meat:

• Ham and Bacon: Substitute the sausage with 1 pound of cooked, diced ham or cooked and crumbled bacon. This gives it a classic quiche flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, replace the sausage with 1 pound of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or caramelized onions. Ensure the vegetables are cooked and well-drained before adding them, as raw veggies release water during baking.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced, seeded jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the custard mix for a fiery twist on the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

Cheese and Dairy Swaps

If you don’t have sharp cheddar, consider using Pepper Jack for heat, Gruyère for nuttiness, or Mozzarella for stretch. For a richer custard, swap the whole milk for half-and-half or even heavy cream.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

To make this an accessible meal for everyone:

• Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the 6 slices of standard bread with high-quality gluten-free bread, diced into 1-inch cubes. The chilling step is especially important with gluten-free bread as it can sometimes be denser.
• Dairy-Free: Use unsweetened oat milk or a good quality full-fat soy milk in place of whole milk. Substitute the cheddar cheese with a blend of dairy-free sharp cheddar and nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor profile.

Advice to Avoid Common Mistakes

The Soggy Bottom Trap

A soggy bottom is the most common issue in breakfast casseroles. There are two main culprits:

1. Skipping the Soak: If you pour the custard and immediately bake the casserole, the egg mixture sits at the bottom, creating a dense, liquid layer instead of being absorbed by the bread. Always soak overnight!
2. Excess Grease: Make sure you thoroughly drain the cooked sausage. Sausage fat will separate from the egg custard during baking and make the bottom layer greasy and dense.

Over-Browning the Top

If your oven runs hot, or if you used a high-fat cheese that tends to brown quickly, the top layer of your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole might burn before the center is set. If you notice the cheese becoming overly dark after 30 minutes, simply cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.

Ensuring Doneness

The casserole is done when a thin knife inserted near the center comes out clean. If the knife comes out with wet liquid, it needs more time. Because oven temperatures vary, rely on this visual and tactile test rather than solely on the timer. If the center is still jiggly after 50 minutes, keep baking in 5-minute increments until set. The core temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

For those who love hearty, savory bakes, but need a sweet counterpart, try preparing these satisfying Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls the night before alongside your casserole!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of this Savory Breakfast Casserole

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is far more than just comfort food; it’s a nutritionally dense meal that provides excellent energy to start the day. Because the final dish is cut into 8–10 large portions, the following is a general approximation per serving (assuming 10 servings).

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Note: These values are approximations and can vary based on the specific type of sausage and bread used.

• Calories: 350 – 400 kcal
• Protein: 22 – 25g (Excellent source)
• Fats: 25 – 30g (Includes saturated fats from sausage, cheese, and whole milk)
• Carbohydrates: 10 – 15g (Primarily from the bread)
• Sodium: 600 – 750mg (Variable based on sausage and cheese type)
• Cholesterol: High (Due to eggs and sausage)

Key Nutritional Benefits

High-Quality Protein Source

With 10 eggs and 1 pound of sausage, this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is packed with high-quality, complete protein. Protein is essential for satiety it helps you feel full longer, reducing the urge to snack before lunch. This makes the casserole an excellent choice for stabilizing blood sugar levels compared to high-sugar breakfast options.

Calcium and Vitamin D

The inclusion of 2 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of cheddar cheese contributes significantly to your daily intake of calcium and Vitamin D. Calcium is vital for bone health, and Vitamin D (often fortified in milk) aids in calcium absorption and immune function.

Energy from Complex Carbohydrates and Fats

While the carbohydrate content is relatively low, the bread provides a necessary energy source. Meanwhile, the healthy fats from the whole milk and eggs (which are rich in omega-3s and choline, depending on the chicken feed) provide sustained energy. Choline, specifically, is a micronutrient crucial for brain and nerve function, making this a smart breakfast choice for focusing on a busy day ahead.

Enjoying a hearty portion of this savory breakfast ensures you have the fuel needed for a productive morning without the energy crash often associated with lighter or sweeter meals.

Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the preparation, storage, and handling of the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This recipe for Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is truly the best version of this classic comfort food. It combines the savory intensity of breakfast sausage and sharp cheddar cheese with a delicate, moist egg custard, all thanks to the essential overnight rest. It transforms breakfast preparation from a frantic morning rush into a relaxing, aromatic experience. By following the detailed steps especially the meticulous draining of the sausage and the patience required during the chilling phase you are guaranteed a flawless, crowd-pleasing dish every time.

Whether you need a guaranteed hit for a holiday gathering or simply want a delicious, protein-packed meal prep option for the week, this savory breakfast bake is versatile, hearty, and simple to execute. Say goodbye to store-bought quiches and hello to your new make-ahead star!

We encourage you to try this recipe tonight. Assemble it, let it soak up all those fantastic flavors overnight, and wake up tomorrow ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food breakfast. Don’t forget to share your experience, photos, and any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy the most stress-free morning meal you’ve ever prepared!

Ultimate Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole (Make-Ahead)

A hearty and flavorful make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring layers of savory seasoned sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender bread soaked in a rich, seasoned egg custard. Perfect for holiday brunch or easy weekend mornings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 475

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Base Ingredients

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage mild or spicy
• 6 slices day-old bread crusts removed or left on, diced into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups total)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Egg Custard

• 10 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder recommended for flavor depth
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder optional

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

Preparation

1. Grease a standard 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter. Set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: Place the bulk breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is completely browned. Drain off any excess grease thoroughly and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Base Layers: Scatter the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the layer of bread cubes. Then, evenly sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and bread layers.
4. Prepare the Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk the 10 large eggs vigorously until slightly frothy. Pour in the 2 cups of milk. Add the salt, black pepper, dry mustard powder (if using), and garlic powder (if using). Continue whisking until the seasonings are thoroughly incorporated.

Soaking and Baking

1. Saturate and Chill (Crucial Step): Slowly and evenly pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers, ensuring all the bread cubes are moistened. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover the baking dish tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours, or ideally, overnight (8 to 12 hours).
2. Preheat the Oven: About 30 minutes before baking, remove the casserole from the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake the Casserole: Remove the cover/foil from the dish. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. The casserole is finished when the center is set (no longer jiggly) and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the finished casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the casserole set completely.

Notes

For an even richer casserole, swap the whole milk for half-and-half or heavy cream in the egg custard. You can easily prep this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. If you bake it straight from the refrigerator without allowing it to warm up for 30 minutes, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the total baking time.