Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty and comforting breakfast or brunch dish that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and usually some bread or potatoes to soak up all the flavors. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for a quick meal later on.
I love making this casserole when I have family or friends over because it’s so easy to prepare ahead of time and then pop in the oven when I’m ready. The smell of cooked sausage and eggs baking together is always a winner, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Sometimes I like to add a little extra cheese on top to make it extra gooey, which everyone always appreciates.
My favorite way to serve it is right out of the oven with some fresh fruit on the side and a cup of coffee or juice. It’s great for lazy weekend mornings when you want something filling but don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding veggies like peppers or spinach if you want to sneak in some greens without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This is the star for flavor. You can use pork, turkey, or chicken sausage. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage works well but keep an eye on seasoning since it’s milder.
Eggs: Eggs give the casserole structure and richness. Use large eggs for best results. For a dairy-free version, swap eggs with a tofu scramble mixed with chickpea flour.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds creaminess and a nice sharp taste. You can swap for mozzarella for milder flavor or use a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Frozen Hash Browns: These give a crunchy and soft texture contrast. Fresh diced potatoes work, but thaw and drain them well to avoid sogginess.
Bell Pepper and Onion: These veggies add subtle sweetness and color. You can skip them or swap for spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a different touch.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Sets Perfectly Without Being Dry?
Getting the eggs cooked just right is key! Here’s how to keep the casserole moist yet firm:
- Preheat your oven and use a moderate 350°F to cook gently.
- Whisk eggs thoroughly with salt and seasoning to distribute flavor evenly.
- Don’t overcook—start checking around 35 minutes. The center should be set but slightly jiggly. It will firm up as it cools.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking; the heat finishes cooking it and lets moisture redistribute.
If you want extra creaminess, mix in a splash of milk or cream with the eggs before baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – I use this size because it fits the ingredients nicely and cooks evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the sausage and cooking the veggies, making everything easier to combine.
- Whisk – helps mix the eggs and seasonings smoothly for a uniform texture.
- Mixing bowl – handy for combining the eggs, cheese, and cooked ingredients before baking.
- Measuring spoons and cups – keep ingredients precise and consistent.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different smoky flavor.
- Mix in chopped spinach, kale, or mushrooms for extra greens and earthiness.
- Use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella instead of cheddar for varied cheese flavors.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or a mix)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 to 40 minutes to bake. Let it rest for 5 minutes after baking before serving. So in total, expect about 50-55 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble the breakfast sausage into the skillet and cook it thoroughly until browned all over. Drain any excess fat if needed, then remove the sausage from the heat.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until everything is well combined. Then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, diced bell pepper, and onion. Mix it all together until evenly combined.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the whole mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole is done when the eggs are fully set and the top has a nice golden color.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it finish cooking and makes it easier to slice. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost function on your microwave to speed up the process. Cooking thawed sausage ensures even browning and proper mixing in the casserole.
Can I Prepare the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready, simply bake it a few extra minutes to ensure it cooks through evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and consider using a non-dairy milk splash in the egg mixture for extra creaminess if you like.