Looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast option that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this mouthwatering Breakfast Casserole, often lovingly referred to as "Funeral Food" for its comforting nature during tough times. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, all nestled within tender bread cubes. Whether you're hosting a brunch, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a cozy breakfast, this casserole is the ultimate solution. Ready to dive into a recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 eggs and whisk them together until well beaten. Add the 2 cups of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder to the eggs. Whisk until all ingredients are fully combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups of cubed bread and the cooked sausage. Mix them together gently to ensure the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the bread.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and sausage mixture. Stir gently until all the bread is coated with the egg mixture, ensuring that the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Fold in the 2 cups of shredded cheese, mixing until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the casserole mixture.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This will help the casserole set without browning too quickly.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut into squares.
- Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious breakfast casserole, perfect for gatherings or as a hearty breakfast option!
Tips
- Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, consider using day-old bread or a crusty loaf. It absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a fluffier casserole.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to your casserole.
- Add Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sausage mixture before combining it with the bread.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your casserole is fully cooked, insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready to serve!
- Serve with Sides: Pair your casserole with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded breakfast spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 21g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 278mg
