Chef's Essential Tips

Ingredient Substitutions: You can replace the sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option or use veggie sausage for a vegetarian version.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before by assembling it, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Cover tightly with foil and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick or use a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
Bread Types: Use whole-grain or gluten-free bread based on dietary needs. Stale bread works best as it absorbs moisture.

Essential Ingredients Selection

Breakfast Sausage: This is the star ingredient, bringing a savory, rich flavor that sets the tone for the dish. Choose your favorite brand or type, and consider leaner options if desired.
Eggs: Essential for binding the casserole and providing protein. Fresh, high-quality eggs yield the best flavor and texture.
Milk: Adds creaminess, making the eggs fluffy and mellowing the flavors. Whole milk produces a richer result, while low-fat options work too.
Spinach: This ingredient not only adds vibrant color but contributes to nutritional value. Fresh spinach wilts down nicely, integrating into the dish.
Bell Peppers: They offer a sweet crunch that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. The color variety can enhance presentation too.
Garlic Powder: This spice enhances savory depth without overpowering the dish. Fresh garlic can also be used for a bolder flavor.
Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and umami flavor. It’s a great way to incorporate allium flavors without the texture of fresh onion.
Salt and Pepper: Crucial for seasoning, these enhance all other flavors in the casserole. Adjust based on personal taste preferences.
Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheese on top creates a deliciously gooey crust. Its sharp flavor complements the sausage wonderfully.
Bread: A critical binding agent, absorbing the egg mixture for a cohesive texture. Use stale or toasted bread to prevent sogginess.

Creating Your Masterpiece

Reheating Techniques:

To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. An oven reheating method at 350°F for 10-15 minutes will also revive its original texture.

Leftover Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Proper cooling and storage will ensure your casserole remains delicious for up to 3 days, making for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Garnishing:

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of freshness and color. This finishing touch not only enhances presentation but also adds a pleasant aromatic quality to the dish.

Cooling and Slicing:

After baking, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. This allows it to set further, making it easier to slice without falling apart. The cooling period also enhances flavor as components meld together.

Baking to Perfection:

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Baking at 350°F allows the center to set while the edges become slightly crispy, providing a delightful contrast in textures.

Cheese Integration:

Adding cheese into the mixture before baking infuses the casserole with flavor and texture. Mix carefully to ensure cheese is dispersed, but retain some for topping to achieve a golden crust on top.

Folding in Ingredients:

Once the egg mixture is prepared, fold in the cooked sausage, vegetables, and bread gently. This technique helps maintain the integrity of the bread while ensuring all ingredients are evenly mixed, creating a cohesive flavor profile.

Whisking Eggs and Milk:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. The goal is to incorporate air into the mixture, lending to fluffy eggs in the final bake. This base is crucial for achieving that classic casserole texture.

Crumbling and Cooking Sausage:

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. This step infuses the dish with savory flavors, and draining the fat ensures a balanced dish that’s not overly greasy.

The Complete Guide to Mastering Savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Reheating Techniques:

To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. An oven reheating method at 350°F for 10-15 minutes will also revive its original texture.

Leftover Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Proper cooling and storage will ensure your casserole remains delicious for up to 3 days, making for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Garnishing:

Just before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of freshness and color. This finishing touch not only enhances presentation but also adds a pleasant aromatic quality to the dish.

Cooling and Slicing:

Baking to Perfection:

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Baking at 350°F allows the center to set while the edges become slightly crispy, providing a delightful contrast in textures.

Cheese Integration:

Adding cheese into the mixture before baking infuses the casserole with flavor and texture. Mix carefully to ensure cheese is dispersed, but retain some for topping to achieve a golden crust on top.

Folding in Ingredients:

Whisking Eggs and Milk:

Crumbling and Cooking Sausage:

Pro Chef Secrets to a Perfect Casserole

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the egg mixture if you like a bit of heat.

Adjust the baking time based on your oven’s accuracy. Oven thermometers help ensure the right temperature.

Each slice is filling, so consider smaller portions if serving with multiple dishes.

Experiment with different herbs like thyme or dill for a unique flavor twist.

Savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole with Cheesy Goodness and Spinach

Name: Savory Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole with Cheesy Goodness and Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Casserole:; 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled and cooked until browned; 8 large eggs, beaten until fluffy; 2 cups milk, whole or 2% for creaminess; 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color); 1 teaspoon garlic powder, for depth of flavor; 1 teaspoon onion powder, enhances the savory notes; 1 teaspoon salt, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, fresh for seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, for gooey texture; 1 cup diced bread (preferably day-old), to absorb the flavors; For Garnish:; Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley), finely chopped

Awaken your senses with this hearty Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and creamy cheese for a morning treat that’s hard to resist. Featuring tender spinach and crunchy bell peppers, each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors; the rich, salty sausage complements the eggs perfectly, while the cheese adds a melty, indulgent finish. Perfect for brunch gatherings, cozy family breakfasts, or holiday celebrations, this comforting casserole will be a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart. It's not just a meal; it's a way to create cherished memories with loved ones around the table. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the joy of sharing something truly delicious, making mornings special one slice at a time.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

45 Minutes

Total Time

60 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled and cooked until browned

8 large eggs, beaten until fluffy

2 cups milk, whole or 2% for creaminess

3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)

1 teaspoon garlic powder, for depth of flavor

1 teaspoon onion powder, enhances the savory notes

1 teaspoon salt, to taste

1/2 teaspoon black pepper, fresh for seasoning

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, for gooey texture

1 cup diced bread (preferably day-old), to absorb the flavors

For Garnish:

Fresh herbs (such as chives or parsley), finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten eggs and milk, whisking until fully integrated.

Step 4: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper into the egg mixture for enhanced flavor.

Step 5: Add the cooked sausage, spinach, diced bell peppers, and diced bread into the egg mixture, folding gently to combine without breaking the bread too much.

Step 6: Next, fold in 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving 0.5 cups for topping.

Step 7: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, then pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top for a delightful cheesy crust.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.

Step 10: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 11: Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of color.

Step 12: Enjoy warm, perfect for brunch or as a meal prep option for the week.

Step 13: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Step 14: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast fix.