Description

A make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring crispy sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and day-old bread. This savory dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be assembled the night before for easy morning cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf day-old bread (torn into 1-inch cubes)
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing dish)
1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 medium yellow onion (diced)
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
Optional: 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
Optional: 1 tablespoon hot sauce

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
If using fresh bread, tear into 1-inch cubes and toast at 300°F for 10 minutes or let sit uncovered to stale. Place bread cubes in a buttered 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until soft (3-4 minutes). Stir in garlic powder and dried basil. Remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until uniform. Stir in optional hot sauce or bell peppers if using.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press down gently to ensure bread is soaked. Let sit for 10 minutes to absorb liquid.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set (knife inserted comes out clean). Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

Use day-old or toasted bread to prevent a mushy texture. Shred your own cheese for better melting. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set. Can be assembled the night before and refrigerated; add 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square slice
Calories: 380
Sugar: 4
Sodium: 650
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 2
Protein: 22

Keywords: breakfast casserole, sausage and cheese, make-ahead breakfast, family brunch, easy breakfast recipe, crispy breakfast bake