This unique and flavorful Grilled Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe is the perfect dish to start your day. It combines the classic comfort of grilled cheese with the hearty savoriness of breakfast sausage. This casserole comes together easily, making it a fantastic option for laid-back weekend brunches or even weekday breakfasts.
Most ingredients for this recipe like eggs, milk, bread, butter, and cheese are common pantry staples. However, the recipe calls for Texas toast, which is a type of packaged bread that's thicker than regular slices. If you can't find it, any thick-sliced bread should work. Also, the recipe uses American cheese, a processed cheese product that's available in most supermarkets. You can substitute it with any mild, easily melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.
Ingredients for Grilled Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Pork breakfast sausage: A savory ingredient that adds a rich, meaty flavor to the casserole.
Eggs: They provide structure and richness to the casserole.
Butter: Used for greasing the pan and brushing the bread for a golden, crispy top.
Whole milk: It adds creaminess to the egg mixture.
Kosher salt: Balances the flavors in the casserole.
Coarse ground black pepper: Adds a slight heat to the dish.
Ground mustard: Gives a subtle tanginess to the casserole.
Texas toast: Thick slices of bread that add a robust texture.
American cheese: Melts well, lending a creamy, gooey element to the casserole.
One reader, Aimil Abernathy says:
This grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese is simply irresistible. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for brunch gatherings. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it a new family favorite. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Making a Grilled Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
How to cook breakfast sausage: Cook the breakfast sausage in a large pan on medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes or until browned well, breaking it apart while cooking. Remove the pork and drain the fat.
How to scramble eggs: Whisk 10 eggs with ¼ cup of milk, salt, and pepper, then add it to the pan. Scramble the eggs until just set.
How to assemble the casserole: In a 9x13-inch pan, line the first 6 slices of toast and top each piece of bread with a slice of cheese. Add in the sausage, then the cooked eggs, and top with a piece of cheese. Mix the remaining 8 eggs, ¾ cups milk, and ground mustard in a medium bowl, then pour it over the pan gently. Top with the remaining slices of bread.
How to bake the casserole: Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and brush it onto the tops of the bread. Bake for 20 minutes, covered with foil. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
How To Make Grilled Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with a delicious, filling breakfast! Try this delicious breakfast casserole made with sausage, eggs, and cheese on Texas toasts.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpork breakfast sausage
- 18large eggs,divided
- 4tbspbutter,divided
- 1cupwhole milk,divided
- ¼tspkosher salt
- ½tspcoarse ground black pepper
- ½tspground mustard
- 12slicesTexas toast
- 12slicesAmerican cheese
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
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Cook the breakfast sausage in a large pan on medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes or until browned well, breaking it apart while cooking. Remove the pork and drain the fat.
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Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan on medium heat.
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Whisk 10 eggs with ¼ cup of milk, salt, and pepper, then add it to the pan. Scramble the eggs until just set.
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In a 9×13-inch pan line, the first 6 slices of toast and top each piece of bread with a slice of cheese.
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Add in the sausage, then the cooked eggs, and top with a piece of cheese.
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Mix the remaining 8 eggs, ¾ cups milk, and ground mustard in a medium bowl, then pour it over the pan gently.
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Top with the remaining slices of bread.
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Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and brush it onto the tops of the bread.
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Bake for 20 minutes, covered with foil.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 407.37kcal
- Fat: 27.19g
- Saturated Fat: 11.50g
- Trans Fat: 0.22g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.40g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.89g
- Carbohydrates: 17.09g
- Fiber: 1.16g
- Sugar: 3.21g
- Protein: 23.18g
- Cholesterol: 331.11mg
- Sodium: 742.61mg
- Calcium: 213.75mg
- Potassium: 379.16mg
- Iron: 2.88mg
- Vitamin A: 171.96µg
- Vitamin C: 0.05mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Your Breakfast Casserole
When preparing your grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole, it's important to not overcook the scrambled eggs in the initial cooking process. Remember, the eggs will continue to cook in the oven, so aim for a slightly undercooked scramble to ensure a tender, creamy final product. Also, using whole milk in your egg mixture will give your casserole a richer, creamier texture. Lastly, when layering your ingredients, make sure to distribute the sausage and cheese evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the sausage and egg mixture the night before and refrigerate it. In the morning, all you have to do is assemble the casserole and pop it in the oven.
Use pre-sliced cheese: Save time by using pre-sliced cheese instead of having to slice it yourself.
Bake in advance: If you have a busy morning, bake the casserole the night before and reheat individual portions in the morning for a quick breakfast.
Invest in a good knife: A sharp knife can make prep work quicker and more efficient, saving you time in the kitchen.
Organize your ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are organized and easily accessible. This will help streamline the cooking process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
pork breakfast sausage - Substitute with turkey breakfast sausage: Turkey breakfast sausage is a leaner alternative to pork sausage, providing a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
large eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitute can be used for those looking to reduce cholesterol or for individuals with egg allergies.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter, providing a different flavor profile to the dish.
whole milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a lighter and nuttier flavor to the casserole.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of saltiness to the dish.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with ground white pepper: Ground white pepper can be used as a milder alternative to black pepper, providing a different flavor profile to the casserole.
ground mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute for ground mustard, providing a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.
texas toast - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread can be used as an alternative to Texas toast, providing a tangy and chewy texture to the casserole.
american cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for American cheese, providing a sharper and more pronounced flavor to the casserole.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Breakfast Casserole
Elevate the plating: When presenting the grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the casserole to showcase the layers and ingredients.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a pop of flavor.
Incorporate a side salad: Serve the casserole alongside a small side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole and add a sophisticated touch to the presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Opt for elegant and refined serving dishes and utensils to elevate the dining experience. Consider using porcelain or ceramic dishes for a polished presentation.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Create a beautiful drizzle of sriracha mayo or hollandaise sauce on the plate to add a gourmet touch and enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
Consider the color contrast: Pay attention to the color contrast on the plate. Balance the warm tones of the casserole with vibrant elements such as fresh fruit or colorful edible flowers for a visually stunning presentation.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the components of the casserole in a symmetrical and balanced manner on the plate to create a sense of harmony and sophistication in the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Breakfast Casserole
Large pan: A large, heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for cooking the breakfast sausage and scrambling the eggs.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for beating the eggs and milk together to create a smooth mixture for the casserole.
9x13-inch pan: This baking dish is perfect for assembling and baking the casserole, providing enough space for all the ingredients.
Medium bowl: A medium-sized bowl is needed for mixing the remaining eggs, milk, and ground mustard before pouring it over the casserole.
Brush: A brush is used to evenly distribute the melted butter over the tops of the bread slices before baking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Breakfast Casserole
Let the casserole cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the bread soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole:
- Wrap the cooled casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the casserole with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2 months.
To reheat the casserole:
- If frozen, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the plastic wrap and cover the casserole with foil.
- Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If the casserole is still cold in the center, continue baking, checking every 5-10 minutes.
- For a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Breakfast Casserole
To reheat leftover grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method ensures that the casserole heats evenly and the cheese melts perfectly, while the bread on top remains crispy.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a slice of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 1-2 minutes, or until it's warmed to your liking. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a softer texture for the bread.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the casserole in the oven without the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating. This will help the top layer of bread regain its crunch.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat individual slices of the casserole for 3-4 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This method will give you a crispy exterior while maintaining a warm and gooey center.
Lastly, if you're in a hurry, you can reheat a slice of the casserole in a toaster oven. Place the slice on a toaster oven tray and heat it for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted.
Interesting Trivia About Breakfast Casseroles
Grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy mornings. This casserole is a great way to feed a crowd and can be easily customized with different types of cheese or bread. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Plus, it's a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Breakfast Casserole Economical?
This grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as pork breakfast sausage, eggs, butter, milk, and cheese, are commonly found and reasonably priced. The dish yields a substantial amount, making it suitable for feeding a family of four. The approximate cost for the entire meal would be around $15, making it an economical breakfast option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Breakfast Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?
The grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a hearty and indulgent dish that, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- High in saturated fat: The recipe includes a significant amount of pork sausage, butter, and American cheese, all of which are high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- Calorie-dense: With 18 large eggs, a pound of sausage, and 12 slices of cheese, this casserole is likely to be very high in calories, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.
- Processed ingredients: American cheese is a processed cheese product that often contains additives and preservatives, which may not be the healthiest choice.
- Low in fiber: The recipe does not include any significant sources of fiber, such as vegetables or whole grains, which are important for digestive health and overall well-being.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the pork sausage for a leaner protein source, such as turkey or chicken sausage, or use a mix of sausage and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach.
- Replace some or all of the eggs with egg whites to reduce the cholesterol and fat content.
- Use a whole grain bread instead of Texas toast to increase the fiber content.
- Opt for a reduced-fat cheese or use less cheese overall to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the casserole, such as diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini, to boost the nutrient density and fiber content.
- Serve the casserole with a side salad or fresh fruit to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals.
Editor's Opinion on This Grilled Cheese and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
This grilled cheese and sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a delightful combination of classic breakfast flavors. The use of pork breakfast sausage and American cheese adds a comforting and hearty touch, while the addition of scrambled eggs and Texas toast creates a satisfying and indulgent dish. The method of layering the ingredients in a casserole format allows for easy preparation and serving, making it a convenient option for breakfast or brunch gatherings. The flavors and textures meld together beautifully, resulting in a delicious and comforting breakfast casserole that is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Enhance Your Grilled Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Grilled Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of grilled cheese and sausage in a hearty breakfast casserole. The savory pork breakfast sausage brings a rich and satisfying flavor, while the creamy eggs and gooey American cheese create a comforting and indulgent dish. The use of Texas toast adds a deliciously buttery and substantial base, making it a perfect choice for a filling breakfast or brunch. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole promises to be a crowd-pleaser and a delightful addition to any morning spread.
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