The Ultimate Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole: Easy Overnight Comfort Food

If you are searching for the ultimate morning comfort food that feeds a crowd with minimal stress, look no further than this incredible Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. This dish is the centerpiece of any brunch table, seamlessly blending savory breakfast sausage, creamy eggs, a hint of spice from dry mustard, and heaps of gooey melted cheese, all anchored by a foundation of perfectly soaked bread.

We believe that breakfast shouldn’t be a race, especially on weekends or holidays. That’s the magic of an overnight casserole 90% of the work is done the night before. You simply slide it into the oven in the morning, and an hour later, you are enjoying a golden, puffed, and undeniably delicious meal. Whether you are hosting holiday guests, fueling a busy family, or preparing for a big game day tailgate, this savory breakfast bake is your new best friend.

Forget dry, crumbly egg dishes. Our recipe emphasizes the crucial soaking time, transforming humble day-old bread into a fluffy, absorbent base that binds the rich custard, sausage, and cheese into a cohesive, sliceable masterpiece. Follow this guide to master the make-ahead breakfast that will earn you rave reviews every single time you serve it.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This recipe isn’t just a collection of ingredients baked together; it’s a strategic culinary move designed to maximize flavor and minimize morning effort. The deeply savory profile of the seasoned sausage, combined with the sharp tang of cheddar and the smooth texture of the eggs, creates an irresistible bite that appeals to all ages. But the appeal goes far beyond flavor it is the sheer practicality that makes this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole a keeper.

One of the top reasons busy home cooks flock to this dish is its unparalleled convenience. As a true make-ahead breakfast, the time commitment on the morning you serve it is virtually zero. You spend about 20 minutes prepping the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight in the refrigerator. This essential soaking period does more than save time; it ensures that the bread cubes fully absorb the rich, seasoned custard, preventing a dry, crumbly texture and delivering a uniformly moist and luxurious casserole base. Waking up to a fully prepped dish ready for the oven is truly a game-changer for hosting or handling hectic mornings.

Furthermore, this overnight casserole is inherently scalable. The standard 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for feeding 8 to 12 people generously, making it an ideal choice for large gatherings, holiday brunches, or even weekly meal prepping. Its robust nature means it travels well and reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving. Unlike delicate pancakes or complicated French toast recipes, this sausage egg casserole is hearty, filling, and provides sustained energy, thanks to the high protein content from the sausage and eggs.

We also love the flexibility this recipe offers. While the foundation of sausage, bread, and cheese is classic, you can easily customize the dish to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. Want more heat? Swap mild sausage for spicy or add a dash of hot sauce to the custard. Prefer a milder flavor? Use all Monterey Jack cheese. This adaptability ensures that the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole can be a fresh and exciting dish every time you prepare it, solidifying its role as a versatile star in your breakfast repertoire. It truly provides maximum reward for minimum effort.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Now: Mastering the Overnight Casserole Technique

If you’ve been hesitant to try an overnight casserole, now is the time to jump in. This technique is not just about saving time; it’s about fundamentally improving the texture and depth of flavor of your breakfast bake. Many people fear a soggy bottom or a rubbery egg texture when cooking casseroles, but our method for the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole actively prevents these issues by leveraging the power of refrigeration.

The key ingredient in this delicious saga is time. When the bread cubes whether you use standard sandwich bread or thick Texas toast are allowed to soak overnight (a minimum of 4 hours, but ideally 8-12 hours), the structure of the starch changes. The bread softens entirely, becoming pudding-like and maximizing absorption of the egg and milk custard. This pre-saturation prevents the bread from drying out during the long bake time and stops the egg mixture from running directly to the bottom of the dish, ensuring a structurally sound, evenly cooked, and fluffy interior.

Moreover, the overnight rest period allows the seasonings to deeply penetrate every component. The dry ground mustard, a secret weapon in many savory custard recipes, activates and imparts a subtle, tangy lift that cuts through the richness of the sausage and cheese. The salt and pepper season not just the surface, but the core of the bread cubes and the meat layer, resulting in a cohesive flavor profile where every bite is perfectly seasoned. This level of flavor integration is simply impossible to achieve with an immediate bake.

For those interested in efficient cooking, this recipe aligns perfectly with modern kitchen trends focused on batch cooking and minimizing waste. Using day-old bread isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a functional requirement, as slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better than fresh bread, preventing mushiness. If you often have leftover bread, transforming it into this hearty savory breakfast bake is an excellent way to reduce food waste while creating a magnificent meal. This process makes the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole not only convenient but also incredibly resourceful. To explore more recipes that utilize simple ingredients in powerful ways, check out some of our other Spanish favorites, like our authentic Spanish Tortilla or a quick savory puff pastry dish like the Easy Empanadas Recipe.

Ingredients and Essential Utensils for the Perfect Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Success in creating this glorious breakfast casserole starts with quality ingredients and the right tools. We break down the roles of each component to ensure you get the absolute best results from your savory breakfast bake.

Detailed Ingredient List

The precision in quantities is key to achieving that perfect set custard and optimal flavor balance in your Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): The foundation of the flavor. Choose mild for a family-friendly dish or spicy if you prefer a morning kick. Ensure it is high-quality bulk sausage, not links.
• 6 slices day-old sandwich bread or Texas toast, cubed (about 4 cups): Day-old or slightly stale bread is paramount. Fresh bread can become too mushy. Texas toast provides a thicker structure, while standard sandwich bread creates a softer, pudding-like consistency. Cube them roughly into 1-inch pieces.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor contrast against the sausage. The Jack or a Colby-Jack blend adds superior meltiness. Always shred your own cheese if possible; pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can inhibit smooth melting.
• 8 large eggs: These form the base of the custard. Ensure they are large, as using fewer eggs will result in a runny or poorly set casserole.
• 2 cups whole milk (or 2%): Whole milk provides the richest flavor and texture for the custard. While 2% milk can be substituted, avoid skim milk as it may lead to a thinner, less creamy result.
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard: Do not skip this! It doesn’t make the dish taste like mustard; it acts as a flavor enhancer, adding depth and cutting through the richness of the fat and dairy.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the massive volume of eggs, bread, and meat.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is always recommended for superior aroma and spice.
• Butter or cooking spray: For greasing the standard 9×13 inch casserole dish, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.

When selecting your ingredients for this overnight casserole, consider sourcing high-quality dairy and meat. Since the flavor profile is simple, the quality of the sausage and cheese really shines through. For instance, using a smoked cheddar can provide an extra layer of complexity to the final Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole that elevates it beyond the ordinary.

Essential Equipment for Success

While this recipe is simple, having the right tools makes the preparation seamless:

• 9×13 inch Casserole Dish: The standard size required for this volume of ingredients. Glass or ceramic is preferred as it holds heat evenly.
• Large Skillet: Needed for browning the pound of bulk breakfast sausage thoroughly. Cast iron or heavy-bottomed stainless steel works best.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Crucial for whisking the eggs, milk, and seasonings to create a light and well-combined custard base.
• Wire Whisk: Necessary for vigorously whisking the eggs to incorporate air, which aids in a fluffier final texture.
• Colander: Absolutely essential for draining the excess grease from the sausage. This step prevents the casserole from being overly oily or having a soggy layer beneath the bread.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Used for crumbling the sausage and for gently pressing the bread cubes into the custard during assembly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key, especially for the milk and seasonings.
• Aluminum Foil or Plastic Wrap: Required for covering the casserole during the long refrigeration soak.

By preparing these tools and carefully measuring your ingredients, you set the stage for a beautifully executed Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole. The investment in quality ingredients and accurate measurement ensures the perfect texture not too wet, not too dry, but perfectly set and golden brown.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make the Perfect Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Making this savory breakfast bake is incredibly straightforward, but success relies on executing the preparation and soaking steps correctly. Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect make-ahead breakfast every time.

Preparation Steps (Sausage & Dish)

1. Prepare the Sausage: Crumble the entire pound of bulk breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until thoroughly browned. It is crucial to ensure that absolutely no pink remains, guaranteeing safety and maximum flavor.
2. Drain the Grease Completely: This is a critical step for preventing an oily or waterlogged final casserole. Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a colander lined with paper towels (optional, but recommended) and drain off all excess grease completely. Set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9×13 inch casserole dish generously with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking, especially after the overnight chill.
4. Arrange the Bread: Distribute the approximately 4 cups of cubed, day-old bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared 9×13 inch casserole dish. This layer acts as the sponge and structure for the entire Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
5. Layer the Meat and Cheese: Sprinkle the cooked, cooled, and thoroughly drained sausage evenly over the layer of bread cubes. Then, sprinkle the full 2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the sausage and bread mixture. Ensure the cheese is distributed edge-to-edge for optimal coverage.

Creating the Rich Custard

The custard is the glue that holds the casserole together. Getting the whisking right ensures a light and fluffy final texture.

5. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs vigorously. You want the yolks and whites fully combined and slightly frothy this incorporates air, which contributes to a nice puff during baking.
6. Add Dairy and Seasoning: Pour in the 2 cups of whole milk. Add the 1 teaspoon of dry ground mustard, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until all the seasonings, particularly the dry mustard, are completely dissolved and incorporated into the egg and milk mixture. Taste a small amount of the custard now it should taste pleasantly seasoned, as the bread will absorb a lot of the saltiness.

Assembly, Soaking, and Overnight Magic

This phase is what transforms a simple mixture into the renowned overnight casserole.

7. Pour the Custard: Carefully pour the entire egg and milk custard mixture evenly over the sausage, bread, and cheese layers in the casserole dish. Pour slowly, aiming for the entire surface, allowing the liquid to trickle down.
8. Press and Soak (Crucial Step): This cannot be overstated. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula or the back of a spoon. You must ensure that every single bread cube is submerged and thoroughly saturated with the liquid. This prevents dry spots and ensures the bread acts as a binder, rather than a dry filler.
9. Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the casserole in the refrigerator and allow it to soak for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 12 hours). This soaking time is essential for the bread to soften, the flavors to meld, and the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole structure to solidify for baking.

Baking for Golden Perfection

10. Pre-Bake Preparation: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking time. This allows the dish to temper slightly, reducing the cooking shock and ensuring more even baking. Remove the plastic wrap or foil.
11. Bake the Casserole: Place the uncovered casserole dish into the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes.
12. Check for Doneness: The casserole is done when the center is set (no longer wet or jiggly when gently shaken) and the top is puffed and lightly golden brown. Insert a knife or thin skewer near the center; if it comes out clean, the eggs are cooked. Tip: If the edges or top begin to brown too quickly (around the 40-minute mark), you may loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time to prevent burning.
13. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving immediately. Resting allows the eggs to finish setting and the cheese to stabilize, resulting in cleaner, more professional slices of your gorgeous Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations

While the classic Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfection in a pan, understanding how to tweak the recipe and solve common issues will ensure your continued success with this staple make-ahead breakfast.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls to guarantee a flawless sausage egg casserole:

• Soggy Bottom: The main cause is insufficient draining of the sausage grease or using too much milk (ensure you use exactly 2 cups). Always drain the sausage thoroughly and ensure the bread cubes are firmly pressed down to absorb the custard, not simply float in it.
• Rubbery Eggs: This usually happens if the temperature is too high or if the casserole is overbaked. Stick to 350°F (175°C) and check for doneness promptly at 50 minutes. Remember, the eggs will continue to cook slightly during the resting period.
• Dry Casserole: If you used very thick bread (like sourdough) or baked it too long, your casserole might be dry. Ensure thorough soaking. If you must skip the overnight soak, add an extra splash of milk (about 1/4 cup) to account for faster absorption during immediate baking, though the texture won’t be as good.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best qualities of this savory breakfast bake is its versatility. Feel free to adapt it based on what you have in your pantry or specific dietary needs.

Cheese Alternatives

While cheddar is traditional, mixing it up adds complexity:

• Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick.
• Smoked Gouda: Adds a sophisticated, smoky depth.
• Mozzarella and Parmesan: Creates a stretchier, milder Italian flavor profile.

Meat and Protein Swaps

If breakfast sausage isn’t available, or you need an alternative:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and instead sauté 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 1 cup of fresh spinach with a pinch of garlic powder. Use a meat substitute like crumbled vegetarian sausage, if desired.
• Ham or Bacon: Use 1 pound of finely diced ham or 1 pound of cooked, crumbled bacon instead of sausage. Since bacon and ham tend to be saltier, slightly reduce the added salt in the custard to 1/4 teaspoon.
• Turkey or Chicken Sausage: A lighter option. Ensure these are still thoroughly cooked and drained before layering.

Bread Choices (Gluten-Free and Standard)

The bread is the structure, so choose carefully:

• Gluten-Free Bread: Many commercial GF sandwich breads work wonderfully, often absorbing the custard even better than wheat bread. Texas toast style is recommended for GF varieties to maintain bulk.
• Sourdough or Ciabatta: These sturdier, artisan breads work well but may require a longer soak time (closer to 12 hours) to soften properly.

Adding Vegetables

To turn this into a truly complete meal, sauté and drain moisture from any additions before mixing them in:

• Peppers and Onions: Sauté 1/2 cup diced onion and 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color) until soft and slightly caramelized. Sprinkle these over the sausage layer.
• Spinach or Kale: Wilt 2 cups of fresh greens and squeeze out all excess liquid before adding them to the dish.

For more inspiration on quick, hearty meals perfect for entertaining, be sure to check out my collection of recipes on my Pinterest board: Noelia’s Recipe Ideas.

Nutritional Insights and Benefits of This Savory Breakfast Bake

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is more than just comfort food; it’s a powerhouse of macro-nutrients designed to provide sustained energy throughout the morning. Understanding the nutritional breakdown can help you integrate this dish into a balanced diet.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, based on 10 servings)

Please note that these are estimates and will vary based on the specific brand of sausage, type of milk, and cheese blend used. This estimate uses standard pork sausage, whole milk, and cheddar cheese.

Ingredient Benefits

This casserole provides substantial benefits, making it an excellent start to the day:

• High in Protein: Both the eggs and the breakfast sausage provide a significant amount of high-quality protein. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, satiety (feeling full longer), and stabilizing blood sugar levels. A high-protein breakfast like this Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole helps prevent the mid-morning energy crash often associated with high-sugar cereal breakfasts.
• Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs are rich in Vitamin D, B vitamins (especially B12), and Choline, an essential nutrient important for brain health and cell function. Dairy products (milk and cheese) provide essential calcium, which is vital for bone health, as well as fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
• Complex Carbohydrates (from bread): While not the primary macro, the bread provides a source of quick energy, ensuring you are adequately fueled for the start of your day. By using day-old bread, we also contribute to minimizing waste, aligning with a more sustainable kitchen practice.

Because the breakfast casserole is rich and filling, serving it alongside fresh fruit, a light salad, or a simple side of tomatoes ensures a balanced meal that incorporates fiber and essential micronutrients, perfectly complementing the savory, hearty nature of the sausage egg casserole.

FAQs about the Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Make-Ahead Breakfast

The Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is more than a recipe; it’s a strategy for successful entertaining and stress-free mornings. By leveraging the power of the overnight soak, we transform simple, affordable ingredients day-old bread, hearty sausage, and rich dairy into a golden, savory breakfast bake that is guaranteed to impress. The combination of protein-rich eggs and meat, bound by a perfectly creamy custard and topped with a blanket of melted cheddar, makes this dish an unparalleled comfort food experience.

We’ve covered every detail, from the critical step of draining the sausage to the science behind the overnight soak, ensuring you achieve that ideal texture fluffy, moist, and perfectly set, never rubbery or dry. This is the definition of the perfect overnight casserole: maximum flavor development achieved while you sleep.

Whether you’re preparing for Christmas morning, a busy Sunday, or just need a simple, satisfying meal prep solution, this recipe for Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the reliable workhorse you need in your kitchen repertoire. Don’t let another weekend pass without experiencing the joy of waking up to a ready-to-bake meal. Try this savory breakfast bake tonight, allow the magic to happen in the refrigerator, and enjoy the effortless satisfaction tomorrow.

We absolutely love hearing about your kitchen successes! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know what cheese blend you used or what variations you added. Share your creations with us, and if you’re hungry for more effortless Spanish dishes or comfort food classics, browse through our site, perhaps starting with a look at our guide to making the Perfect Paella Mixta or our recipe for Basque Cheesecake. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole (Overnight Ready)

A simple, make-ahead breakfast casserole layered with savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, day-old bread, and a rich, seasoned milk-and-egg custard. Perfect for holiday mornings or easy weekend brunches.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 55 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Layers

• 1 pound bulk breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
• 6 slices day-old sandwich bread or Texas toast cubed (about 4 cups)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend

Custard Base

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Butter or cooking spray for greasing the dish

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch Casserole Dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

Preparation and Layering

1. Prepare the Sausage: Crumble the breakfast sausage into a large skillet. Cook over medium heat until thoroughly browned, ensuring no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease completely and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
3. Arrange the Bread and Fillings: Distribute the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. Sprinkle the cooked and drained sausage evenly over the bread, followed by the 2 cups of shredded cheese.

Creating the Custard and Soaking

1. Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk the 8 large eggs vigorously until fully combined. Pour in the 2 cups of milk and add the dry ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Continue whisking until all seasonings are incorporated.
2. Assembly and Soaking (Crucial Step): Carefully pour the entire egg and milk custard mixture evenly over the sausage, bread, and cheese layers. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula to ensure they fully absorb the liquid and become saturated.
3. Refrigerate: Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the casserole in the refrigerator and allow it to soak for a minimum of 4 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 12 hours).

Baking and Serving

1. Bake Preparation: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking time to allow it to temper slightly. Remove the plastic wrap.
2. Bake the Casserole: Place the uncovered casserole dish into the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set, the eggs are no longer jiggly, and the top is puffed and lightly golden brown.
3. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving immediately.

Notes

This casserole must soak to achieve the correct texture; do not skip the refrigeration time. For a crispier top, you can reserve 1/2 cup of cheese and sprinkle it over the top during the last 15 minutes of baking. Serve with a side of salsa, hot sauce, or maple syrup for an extra kick.