Looking for the perfect dish to elevate your Easter brunch? Look no further than this delectable Egg Sausage Casserole! Bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, this hearty casserole combines fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and gooey cheese, all nestled between layers of bread. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just treating your family, this recipe promises to be the star of your brunch table. With just one hour of prep and cook time, you’ll have a stunning centerpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as delightful as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups bread, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until the sausage is completely browned and no pink remains, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease using a paper towel-lined plate.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This will help create a smooth, uniform custard base for the casserole.
- Cut bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 15-20 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps them absorb the egg mixture better.
- Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and sausage, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Use a spatula to gently press down and help bread absorb the liquid.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The casserole should be slightly puffy and not jiggly when gently shaken.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut and serve.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread or a crusty loaf like French or sourdough. This helps absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Customize Your Sausage: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage—spicy Italian, breakfast sausage, or even turkey sausage can add unique flavors to your casserole.
- Make It Ahead: To save time on the day of your brunch, prepare the casserole the night before. Just assemble everything, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven!
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is firm to the touch.
- Add Veggies: For a nutritional boost, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions to the sausage layer for extra flavor and color.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
- Serve Warm: This casserole is best enjoyed warm, so plan to serve it shortly after it comes out of the oven for that perfect cheesy goodness!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 250mg
