Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese all baked together in one pan. It’s the perfect mix of protein and flavor, making it a great start to any morning or a simple dinner fix. The best part is how easy it comes together with simple ingredients that many of us already have in the fridge or pantry.
I love making this casserole when I need something filling but don’t want to spend a lot of time cooking. I usually prepare it the night before, so it’s ready to pop into the oven in the morning. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but isn’t fussy at all. Plus, it’s super customizable—I often add some veggies or swap sausage types depending on what’s on hand.
When I serve this casserole, I like pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad, which balances out the richness of the eggs and sausage. It’s also a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family meals or brunch with friends. I’ve found that having leftovers means a quick, satisfying bite ready to warm up the next day, which always makes life easier in my busy kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast sausage: I prefer pork sausage for its classic taste, but you can swap in turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just cook it thoroughly.
Eggs & Milk: Fresh eggs give the best texture. Whole milk adds richness, but you can use any milk you like – even unsweetened almond or oat milk for dairy-free.
Bread: Day-old bread works well because it soaks the egg mixture without turning mushy. Brioche or white sandwich bread adds tenderness and flavor. For a healthier twist, try whole wheat or sourdough.
Cheese: Cheddar is popular here, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy note. Skip cheese for a dairy-free casserole or add nutritional yeast for some cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for this Casserole?
The key to this casserole is letting the bread soak up the egg mixture. Here’s how:
- After mixing eggs and milk, pour evenly over the bread and sausage in the baking dish.
- Press down lightly with a spatula or your hands so the liquid seeps into every bread cube.
- Let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking to get a custardy, soft inside and a slightly golden top.
This resting step helps prevent soggy or dry patches. Also, baking uncovered lets the top get nicely browned and a little crisp, adding texture contrast with the soft inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all ingredients and bake evenly.
- Large skillet – I use this to brown the sausage, which adds great flavor.
- Mixing bowl – for whisking eggs, milk, and seasonings smoothly.
- Whisk – it helps mix the eggs and milk without lumps for a creamy texture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – handy for stirring sausage and pressing casserole down.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasonings and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pork sausage with cooked bacon or ham for a smoky alternative I enjoy.
- Mix in chopped spinach or diced bell peppers to add color and extra veggies.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a mild spice or Swiss for nuttiness.
- Add herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary when you want a more aromatic dish.
Easy Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or your choice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 6 cups bread cubes (day-old bread or brioche recommended)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
- Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare plus 40-45 minutes to bake, with an additional 10 minutes resting time before baking. Overall, plan around 1 hour from start to ready-to-serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, until nicely browned and cooked through. Drain any extra fat and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix Eggs and Milk:
In a large bowl, whisk together the six large eggs, two cups of milk, salt, pepper, and dried parsley or Italian seasoning until everything is smooth and combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the greased baking dish. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the bread for extra flavor. Then, evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the bread cubes.
4. Add Egg Mixture and Rest:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and bread, pressing down slightly so the bread absorbs the liquid fully. Let the casserole rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soak in the flavors.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Once done, let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. For a little extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce on top if you like.
Enjoy this easy, delicious casserole for breakfast, brunch, or a simple dinner that your whole family will love!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting, then cook as usual to ensure it’s fully browned.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or onions when cooking the sausage to boost flavor and nutrition. Just sauté the veggies first so they’re tender before mixing into the casserole.