Description
This Breakfast Casserole features a delicious blend of breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and vibrant vegetables, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for brunch or a family breakfast, and can be prepared in advance for added convenience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or a mix)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the sausage)
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, additional cheese, hot sauce
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the breakfast sausage to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart into small pieces as it cooks.
- Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is browned and fully cooked. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess grease. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. If needed, add a little more olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until softened and the onions are translucent.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the vegetables cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs.
- Add 2 cups of milk to the eggs.
- Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
- Whisk the egg mixture until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large greased baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches), layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes.
- Add the sautéed vegetables on top of the sausage and bread.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the vegetable layer.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring all the bread cubes are soaked.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm.
- Optional: Top with sliced green onions, additional cheese, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best for this recipe as it absorbs the egg mixture better.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables or cheese based on your preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes