The Easy Brunch Casserole is a fantastic dish that brings comfort and joy to any brunch table. With its layers of bread, sausage, and cheese, it’s a hearty meal everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it perfect for both family gatherings and lazy weekend mornings.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not just easy; it’s also customizable! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a warm dish to enjoy with your loved ones, this recipe shines. It combines savory flavors with gooey cheese, and you can even make it ahead of time. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread and veggies, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
How to Make Easy Brunch Casserole
Ingredients:
- 6 cups bread cubes
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in the green onions and bell peppers if you are using them.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes to soak up the egg mixture, or cover and refrigerate overnight if you prefer.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this perfect brunch dish!
How to Serve Easy Brunch Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some fruit on the side. You can also offer some hot sauce or ketchup for extra flavor!
How to Store Easy Brunch Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and it will last for about 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Tips to Make Easy Brunch Casserole
- For a twist, try adding different kinds of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- You can also swap the breakfast sausage for ham, bacon, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip letting it sit and just bake it right away!
Variation
Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, spinach, or any leftover vegetables you have. This casserole is very forgiving, so you can tweak it to your taste!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning.
2. Can I use stale bread?
Absolutely! Stale bread is actually perfect for this recipe. It soaks up the egg mixture nicely.
3. Is it okay to leave out the sausage?
Yes! This casserole is versatile. You can omit the sausage or replace it with vegetables or a meat of your choice. Enjoy!
Easy Brunch Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Bread Cubes
- 6 cups bread cubes
Cheese
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Sausage
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
Eggs
- 8 large eggs
Milk
- 2 cups milk
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Vegetables
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup bell peppers, diced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in the green onions and bell peppers if you are using them.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes to soak up the egg mixture, or cover and refrigerate overnight if you prefer.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Serve warm, and enjoy this perfect brunch dish!