Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole is a cozy, hearty dish that combines fluffy biscuits, creamy sausage gravy, and eggs baked all together in one pan. It’s like your favorite classic Southern breakfast turned into a simple, no-fuss casserole that’s perfect for busy mornings or feeding a crowd.
I love making this casserole because it takes all the best parts of biscuits and gravy and puts them in a dish that you can prep ahead of time. Just layer the biscuits, pour over the rich gravy with sausage, and add beaten eggs. When it comes out of the oven, it’s golden, warm, and filling, and everyone is ready to dig in. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but comes together so easily.
My favorite way to serve it is right out of the casserole dish with a little extra hot sauce on the side, especially on chilly mornings. It’s great for a weekend brunch or even a special holiday breakfast. I always find that leftovers heat up beautifully, so if you have any, you get a little happy breakfast bonus the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Biscuits: Refrigerated biscuit dough is a huge time saver here. But you can swap it for homemade biscuits or even dinner rolls if you prefer. Just slice them so they layer nicely in the dish.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage gives the gravy great flavor. If you want a lighter option, try turkey sausage or even diced cooked chicken. Vegetarian? Use plant-based sausage crumbles instead.
Milk and Butter: Whole milk and butter make the gravy rich and creamy. For a lighter version, use 2% milk and a little olive oil instead of butter. Just note it won’t be quite as thick.
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack melt smoothly and add gooey, mild cheese flavor. You can use mozzarella alone or mix in a bit of pepper jack if you want a little spice.
How Do You Layer the Casserole for a Perfect Texture?
Layering is key to getting every bite balanced between soft biscuits, creamy gravy, and fluffy eggs. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with an even layer of sliced biscuits on the bottom to form a sturdy base.
- Pour half the sausage gravy over so it soaks into the biscuits but doesn’t drown them.
- Spread half the egg and cheese mix next for a light, tender middle layer.
- Repeat the biscuit, gravy, and egg layers so the casserole holds together well.
- Finish with cheese on top to get a golden, melty crust when baked.
Letting the biscuits cool a bit after baking before slicing helps keep that soft, layered texture inside without becoming mushy. Also, don’t rush the baking time—eggs need about 35-40 minutes to set fully and blend all the flavors together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch baking dish – perfect size to layer biscuits and gravy evenly for even cooking.
- Large skillet – you’ll cook the sausage and make the gravy right here; easy to manage heat.
- Mixing bowl – to beat eggs and combine with cheese smoothly.
- Whisk – helps create a lump-free, smooth gravy.
- Knife – for slicing biscuits in half so layers fit nicely in the dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially with flour and milk.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for spicy chorizo for a bolder, smoky flavor.
- Add chopped cooked bell peppers or onions to the sausage for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for smoky, crispy bites throughout.
- Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or sage into the gravy to brighten the dish.
Easy Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Biscuits and Gravy:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (buttermilk biscuits work well), around 8 biscuits
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy according to taste)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Egg and Cheese Mixture:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time You’ll Need
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, including making gravy and layering. Baking it in the oven takes around 35-40 minutes, and a brief 5-minute resting time before serving. So, plan for about 1 hour total from start to plate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Biscuits:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish. Bake the refrigerated biscuit dough according to package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes until golden. Once slightly cooled, slice each biscuit horizontally to create two layers.
2. Make the Sausage Gravy:
Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Melt butter in the same skillet, stir in flour, and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thick and creamy (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper, then stir the cooked sausage back into the gravy.
3. Mix Eggs and Cheese:
In a bowl, beat the eggs. Add shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and lightly season with salt and pepper if you like. Stir gently to combine.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Place half of the sliced biscuits evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour half of the sausage gravy over the biscuits. Spread half of the egg and cheese mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining biscuits, gravy, and egg mixture. Finish by sprinkling extra cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes until the casserole is set and the cheese on top is golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. Serve warm with hot sauce or extra gravy on the side for a comforting, delicious breakfast.
Can I Use Frozen Biscuits Instead of Refrigerated Dough?
Yes! Just thaw frozen biscuits completely before baking, then proceed with slicing and layering as directed. This helps maintain the right texture and even cooking.
Can I Make the Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge—add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the biscuits moist and the gravy creamy.
Can I Substitute the Sausage?
Yes, you can swap the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage, chorizo, or a vegetarian meat substitute. Just cook it the same way before adding to the gravy for best flavor.