If you’re looking for a hassle-free breakfast that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the answer! Packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread, this casserole is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Simply assemble it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy a delicious, stress-free breakfast. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for holidays, brunches, or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like veggies, bacon, or different cheeses.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs to keep you energized all morning.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 6 cups cubed bread (French bread, sourdough, or any sturdy bread)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (or bacon, ham, or vegetarian sausage)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
For Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- Cube the Bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the egg mixture better.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Bread: Spread the cubed bread evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add the Sausage: Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese over the sausage.
- Add Veggies (Optional): If using, sprinkle diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach over the cheese.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
- In a large bowl, whisk together the 8 eggs, 2 cups milk, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours) to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
- Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture.
- Customize the Protein: Swap sausage for bacon, ham, or vegetarian alternatives.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Letting the casserole sit overnight ensures the bread soaks up all the flavors.
- Check for Doneness: The casserole is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- With Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh berries or a fruit salad.
- With Hot Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce or salsa for a spicy kick.
- With Coffee or Juice: Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice for a complete breakfast.
Why This Recipe Works
This overnight breakfast casserole is a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors. The bread soaks up the egg mixture, creating a custard-like texture, while the sausage and cheese add richness and depth. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and impressive, with minimal effort required.
Conclusion
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, make-ahead breakfast. With its simple preparation and delicious results, it’s perfect for holidays, brunches, or busy mornings. So gather your ingredients, assemble the casserole, and wake up to a breakfast that’s as easy as it is delicious!