This Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Packed with protein and customizable to suit your family’s preferences, it’s an easy-to-make comfort food that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you choose to include bread for added texture or opt for vegetables to boost the nutrition, this casserole is versatile and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Core Ingredients:

• 1 lb sausage (breakfast sausage, Italian, or spicy)

• 6 large eggs

• 1 cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese blend)

• 2 cups bread cubes (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers

• 1/2 cup chopped spinach

• 1/4 cup diced onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Sausage: Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and set it aside.

2. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

3. Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked sausage, optional vegetables, and shredded cheese in a greased baking dish. If using, add bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.

4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 30-40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

5. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 12g

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 24g

• Cholesterol: 245mg

• Sodium: 920mg

• Fiber: 2g

• Sugar: 3g

The Comfort of Casseroles

Casseroles have long been a beloved dish, known for their comforting qualities and ease of preparation. They are perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead of time for a busy morning. A casserole allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the flavors and making each bite more satisfying. Sausage and Egg Casserole takes this concept to a new level by combining the rich, savory flavor of sausage with the creamy texture of eggs and the indulgence of cheese. When baked, the ingredients transform into a cohesive dish that is both flavorful and filling, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a substantial meal.

Choosing the Right Sausage

The sausage you choose plays a significant role in the flavor profile of this casserole. Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, or even spicy sausage can be used, depending on your preference. Breakfast sausage tends to be milder, with a slightly sweet and savory flavor, making it a classic choice for a breakfast casserole. Italian sausage, with its blend of herbs like fennel and oregano, adds a more savory depth. For those who enjoy a little heat, spicy sausage can be a great option, infusing the dish with a kick of spice. Whichever sausage you select, browning it in a skillet and crumbling it helps ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the casserole.

The Egg Mixture

At the heart of any casserole is the egg mixture, which binds the ingredients together while providing a rich, creamy texture. In this recipe, the eggs are whisked together with milk, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a well-seasoned custard-like base. The combination of the garlic powder and smoked paprika adds depth to the flavor, while the eggs provide structure and richness. This egg mixture is poured over the sausage and other ingredients, allowing it to soak into the bread cubes (if used) and meld with the cheese, creating a satisfying, unified dish.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor and Nutrition

One of the best things about this Sausage and Egg Casserole is its versatility. While the core ingredients provide a delicious base, you can easily add extra vegetables for flavor and nutrition. Diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, and onions can all be added to the casserole, providing color, texture, and a burst of fresh flavor. The bell peppers contribute a slight sweetness and crunch, while the spinach adds a nutritious green element to the dish. Onions bring a savory aroma and depth of flavor, further enhancing the overall taste. These add-ins can be customized based on your preferences, allowing you to tailor the casserole to suit your family’s tastes or dietary needs.

Bread for Texture

Bread cubes are an optional ingredient, but they can significantly change the texture of the casserole. When added to the mix, the bread absorbs the egg mixture, softening to create a custard-like consistency within the casserole. The bread cubes give the dish an added texture that complements the sausage and cheese. For those who prefer a lighter, more egg-centric casserole, you can skip the bread cubes altogether. However, for a more substantial meal with a comforting, bready element, adding bread is a great choice. You can use any type of bread, but hearty, crusty options like sourdough or whole wheat can provide additional flavor and texture.

Baking the Casserole

Once all the ingredients are layered in a greased baking dish, the casserole is ready to bake. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), and bake the casserole for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set, and the top is golden brown. The baking time can vary depending on your oven and the ingredients used, so it’s important to check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the casserole is ready to serve. The top should be golden and slightly crisp, adding a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.

Serving and Enjoying the Casserole

Once the casserole is done baking, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures that the casserole sets properly and makes it easier to cut clean pieces. The casserole is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with a fresh fruit salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.

Sausage and Egg Casserole can also be customized to suit different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply omit the bread or use gluten-free bread cubes. You can also use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives to make the casserole suitable for those with dairy sensitivities.

The Nutritional Profile of Sausage and Egg Casserole

Sausage and Egg Casserole is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a filling and satisfying meal. Each serving contains 25 grams of protein, which helps support muscle repair and growth. The sausage and eggs are both excellent sources of protein, and the casserole offers a balanced combination of macronutrients. The 24 grams of fat come from the sausage, cheese, and eggs, providing richness and flavor. While the casserole is relatively high in cholesterol and sodium, it offers a good amount of essential nutrients, such as calcium, which is important for bone health, and fiber from the optional vegetables and bread.

The carbohydrates in the casserole come mainly from the bread cubes (if used) and the vegetables. The inclusion of bell peppers and spinach adds not only flavor but also a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. The dish provides a moderate amount of fiber, which helps with digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness.

Why This Casserole is Perfect for Breakfast, Brunch, or Dinner

One of the most appealing aspects of Sausage and Egg Casserole is its versatility. It works wonderfully as a hearty breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for feeding a crowd. You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it the next morning for an effortless meal. This casserole is also great for dinner, especially on busy nights when you want to prepare a filling and nutritious meal without much fuss. It’s easy to make, and the leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.

Conclusion

Sausage and Egg Casserole is a versatile, delicious, and hearty dish that works for any meal of the day. Packed with protein from sausage and eggs, and customizable with vegetables or bread, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, it’s a comforting and filling meal that brings everyone to the table. Its simple preparation and delicious flavors make it a perfect addition to any meal plan, and its ability to be made ahead of time adds even more convenience. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent, Sausage and Egg Casserole is the perfect choice