Name: Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486835H1M24S
Total time: PT-486835H1M24S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled• 12 large eggs• 1 cup milk• 1 teaspoon salt• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Ah, the classic sausage, egg, and cheese casserole – a breakfast dish that has graced countless brunch tables and captured the hearts of morning meal enthusiasts everywhere. This beloved recipe is not only a comforting and satisfying way to kickstart your day but also a true crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

With its irresistible combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese, this casserole is the epitome of breakfast bliss. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply craving a heartwarming meal to fuel your day, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

What sets this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole apart is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The juicy sausage provides a delightful savory element, while the creamy eggs and gooey cheese create a heavenly mouthfeel that will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

Another reason to love this casserole is its accessibility. With simple, readily available ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, this dish is perfect for busy mornings or when you need to feed a crowd. And the best part? You can even make it ahead of time and reheat it later, making it a true lifesaver for meal planning and entertaining.

🛒 What You Need to Prepare Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Casserole ❓

• 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

The beauty of this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese creates the classic breakfast-inspired flavor profile that has made these types of casserole recipes perennially popular.

📝 How to Make Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Casserole Step-by-Step ❓

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or butter.
• Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
• Step 3: Add the cooked and crumbled sausage to the egg mixture and stir to distribute evenly.
• Step 4: Pour the sausage-egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
• Step 5: Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Step 6: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
• Total time: 50-55 minutes

Compared to traditional breakfast dishes that can take up to an hour to prepare, this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole saves you valuable time while delivering similar flavors and satisfaction.

👩🏻‍⚕️ Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 820mg

These sausage, egg, and cheese casseroles provide approximately 48% of your daily protein requirements and 35% of your daily fat needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use reduced-fat or low-fat sausage and cheese to lower the overall fat content.
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or cashew milk, and use a low-carb cheese blend.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the cheese and milk with dairy-free alternatives, such as plant-based cheese and unsweetened non-dairy milk.
• Added protein: Increase the protein content by adding extra eggs or incorporating a protein powder into the egg mixture.
• Boost vegetables: Sauté and add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the sausage, egg, and cheese casserole.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp green salad for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
• Pair the casserole with fluffy buttermilk biscuits or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
• Complement the dish with a refreshing glass of orange juice or a hot cup of coffee for a complete morning experience.
• For a dinner option, serve the casserole alongside roasted potatoes or a simple vegetable side dish.
• Create an impressive brunch spread by arranging the casserole with various pastries, quiches, and a selection of fresh-baked muffins.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the eggs: Be careful not to overbake the casserole, as this can result in dry, rubbery eggs. Keep a close eye on the baking time and use a toothpick or knife to test for doneness.
• Skimping on the sausage: The sausage is a key component that provides both flavor and texture to the dish. Make sure to use a sufficient amount of sausage to ensure a satisfying, savory experience.
• Forgetting to grease the baking dish: Neglecting to grease the dish can cause the casserole to stick, making it difficult to serve and potentially affecting the overall presentation.
• Not letting it rest: Resist the temptation to dive in immediately after removing the casserole from the oven. Allowing it to rest for 5-10 minutes allows the eggs to set and the cheese to cool slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These sausage, egg, and cheese casseroles retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the casserole according to the recipe, then cover and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Reheating: To reheat individual servings, place them in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated to your liking.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake the casserole as directed in the recipe.

Can I substitute the sausage with a different meat?

Yes, you can certainly use a different type of meat in this recipe. Cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or even ground turkey or chicken would all work well as substitutes for the sausage. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.

Is this casserole suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

With a few simple modifications, this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole can be easily adapted for a low-carb or keto diet. Swap the milk for unsweetened almond or cashew milk, and use a low-carb cheese blend instead of regular cheddar. You can also add extra eggs or incorporate a protein powder to boost the protein content.

What should I do if the casserole seems undercooked in the middle?

If the center of the casserole appears to be undercooked, simply return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking the edges.

Can I add any additional ingredients to the casserole?

Absolutely! This sausage, egg, and cheese casserole is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. Consider adding diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or even incorporate a breakfast hash or tater tots into the mix.

Conclusion

These sausage, egg, and cheese casseroles represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a weekday breakfast, they’re sure to impress with their hearty, satisfying qualities. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this sausage, egg, and cheese casserole demonstrates that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So, gather your loved ones, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the delicious morning delight that is this casserole.