Name: Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 4 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 Bread slices; 1 package Johnsonville Naturals Italian Sausage; 3 Green Onions; ½ red bell pepper; ½ green bell pepper; 2 cups Italian blend cheese; 2 cups Mozzarella cheese; 6 eggs; 3 cups milk; 1 tsp Italian Seasoning; pepper

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast casserole packed with delightful flavors. This casserole combines the rich taste of sausage with refreshing bell peppers, green onions, and two kinds of cheese. Topped off with a seasoned egg mixture, this recipe ensures each bite is full of taste and gives a good start to your day.

Photos of Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common kitchen staples, you may need to specifically pick up Italian blend cheese and Johnsonville Naturals Italian Sausage from the supermarket. The Italian blend cheese adds a unique flavor to our casserole, and the Naturals Italian sausage from Johnsonville is a balance of sweet and spicy that you can't miss.

Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

Bread slices: The base layer of our casserole, providing a hearty texture.

Johnsonville Naturals Italian Sausage: Gives the dish a savory, meaty depth.

Green onions: Adds a crisp, mild flavor.

Red bell pepper: Brings a sweet, slightly tangy taste.

Green bell pepper: Adds a refreshing crunch.

Italian blend cheese: Provides a smooth, creamy, and flavorful layer.

Mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, cheesy texture.

Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds a rich flavor.

Milk: Helps create the custard-like texture in the casserole.

Italian seasoning: Gives the dish an earthy, aromatic touch.

Pepper: Adds a hint of heat.

One reader, Kristine Fanning says:

This hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting, and it's incredibly easy to make. The combination of Italian sausage, peppers, and cheese is simply divine. It's become a family favorite in our household, and I highly recommend trying it out!

Kristine Fanning

Techniques Required

How to cook Italian sausage: Remove the casing from the sausage and cook it over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any fat.

How to layer the casserole: Layer ½ of the bread cubes in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Top with ½ of each of the cooked sausage, green onions, peppers, and cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with cheese.

How to make the egg mixture: Combine the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are fully combined.

How to refrigerate the casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all of the bread is covered. Refrigerate the casserole overnight or for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

How to bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and place it in the preheated oven.

How to check for doneness: Bake the casserole covered with foil for 65 to 75 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

How to serve: Serve the casserole warm and enjoy!

How To Make Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Make this sausage breakfast casserole ahead and wake up to a filling meal! It’s a well-balanced dish loaded with bread, sausage, peppers, and cheese.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 5 minutes

Refrigerate Time: 3 hours

Total: 4 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

14bread slices,crust removed, cubed and dried
1packageJohnsonville Naturals Italian Sausage
3green onions,sliced
½red bell pepper,finely diced
½green bell pepper,finely diced
2cupsItalian blend cheese,shredded
2cupsmozzarella cheese
6eggs
3cupsmilk
1tspItalian seasoning
pepper,to taste

Instructions

Remove the casing from sausage, then cook it over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Drain any fat.
Layer ½ of the cubes in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Top with ½ of each of the sausage, green onions, peppers, and cheese. Repeat the layers ending with cheese.
Combine the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, and pepper in a bowl.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring all of the bread has been covered. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 3 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Remove from the fridge, then place in the oven.
Bake covered with foil for 65 to 75 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 635.10kcal
Fat: 39.36g
Saturated Fat: 21.23g
Trans Fat: 0.41g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.13g
Carbohydrates: 33.33g
Fiber: 2.74g
Sugar: 9.11g
Protein: 36.70g
Cholesterol: 231.34mg
Sodium: 1121.67mg
Calcium: 799.56mg
Potassium: 421.85mg
Iron: 3.10mg
Vitamin A: 324.75µg
Vitamin C: 16.85mg

Technique Tip for Making a Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

When preparing the sausage, ensure to break it up into small, even pieces while cooking. This will not only ensure that it cooks evenly, but also that each bite of your breakfast casserole has a good distribution of sausage. Additionally, when layering your ingredients, try to distribute them evenly over the bread cubes. This will ensure that every serving has a good mix of all the ingredients. Lastly, when pouring the egg mixture, pour it slowly and evenly over the bread, making sure it seeps into every corner and crevice. This will help to bind all the ingredients together and create a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Prep ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. This way, you can simply pop it in the oven the next morning, saving you time and effort.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Consider using pre-cooked sausage to cut down on cooking time. This will eliminate the need to cook and drain the sausage, streamlining the preparation process.

Chop ingredients in advance: Chop the green onions and bell peppers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of preparation.

Opt for pre-shredded cheese: Using pre-shredded cheese can save you time on grating and cleanup. It's a convenient option that can help streamline the cooking process.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, high-quality knife can make chopping and prepping ingredients much quicker and more efficient, ultimately saving you time in the kitchen.

Organize your workspace: Before you start cooking, make sure your workspace is organized and all the necessary ingredients and tools are easily accessible. This will help you work more efficiently and save time during the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

bread slices - Substitute with hash browns: Hash browns can provide a similar starchy base and add a different texture to the casserole.
johnsonville naturals italian sausage - Substitute with vegan sausage: For a plant-based option, vegan sausage can be used to provide a similar flavor and texture.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a substitute for green onions.
red bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell peppers have a similar sweet flavor and can add a pop of color to the casserole.
green bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can provide a similar crunch and flavor to green bell peppers.
italian blend cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and creamy flavor, making it a good substitute for Italian blend cheese.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with fontina cheese: Fontina cheese has a rich and creamy texture, similar to mozzarella, and can be used as a substitute.
eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs in the casserole, providing a similar binding and creamy texture.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to milk in the recipe.
italian seasoning - Substitute with herbes de Provence: Herbes de Provence is a flavorful herb blend that can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder flavor to the casserole.

Presenting Your Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Elevate the plating: When presenting the casserole, ensure that the layers are visible and neatly arranged, showcasing the vibrant colors of the peppers and the golden brown crust of the casserole.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or chives over the casserole just before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a side of fresh fruit: Accompany the hearty casserole with a side of seasonal fresh fruit such as berries or citrus segments to balance the richness of the dish.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the casserole in a beautiful ceramic baking dish or a cast iron skillet to add a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Add a drizzle of sauce: Create a simple tomato or herb-infused oil to drizzle over the casserole just before serving, adding a burst of flavor and a polished finish to the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Garnish the casserole with delicate and colorful edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to bring an element of elegance and visual appeal to the presentation.
Serve in individual ramekins: For a personalized touch, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins or mini cocottes to create a stunning and refined presentation for each guest.

Essential Tools for Making a Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It can be used to prepare dough, sauces, and various other culinary creations.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple for any cooking or baking endeavor.
9x13-inch pan: A 9x13-inch pan, also known as a baking dish, is a standard kitchen tool used for baking and roasting. It is ideal for making casseroles, lasagnas, and various baked dishes.
Knife: A knife is a crucial kitchen tool used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients. Different types of knives, such as chef's knives, paring knives, and serrated knives, serve various culinary purposes.
Whisk: A whisk is a utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It is commonly used for mixing eggs, sauces, batters, and dressings.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking. They ensure precision and consistency in recipes.
Baking dish: A baking dish, also known as a casserole dish, is a deep, oven-safe dish used for baking savory and sweet dishes such as casseroles, gratins, and desserts.
Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is a versatile kitchen essential used for covering dishes during baking, roasting, and grilling to retain moisture and heat.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and cooking food by applying dry heat. It is a fundamental tool for preparing a wide range of dishes.
Spatula: A spatula is a kitchen utensil with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients. It is commonly used for cooking and baking tasks.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a surface used for cutting, slicing, and preparing ingredients. It provides a safe and stable platform for various kitchen tasks.
Foil: Foil, or aluminum foil, is a thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping, covering, and cooking food. It is commonly used in baking and grilling.
Oven-safe dish: An oven-safe dish is a cooking vessel designed to withstand high temperatures in the oven. It is essential for preparing baked dishes and casseroles.

How To Store and Freeze Your Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish 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 it tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents.
The frozen breakfast casserole will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.
To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
If reheating from frozen, bake the covered casserole at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, or until it's hot and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.
Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This will reduce the reheating time to about 20-25 minutes.
For individual servings, cut the cooled casserole into portions and wrap each one tightly with plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer bag or container, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, unwrap the desired number of portions and microwave until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftovers

To reheat leftover hearty sausage breakfast casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and to keep the moisture in. Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a single serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help keep the bread from drying out and becoming tough.
For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating in the oven. This will allow the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a deliciously golden and crispy top layer.
If you find that the casserole has dried out a bit during storage, you can add a splash of milk or cream before reheating. This will help to rehydrate the bread and keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover casserole, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or green onions over the top before serving. This will brighten up the flavors and add a pop of color to your reheated dish.

Random Fact About Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casseroles

The Johnsonville Naturals Italian Sausage used in this hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe is made with premium cuts of pork and contains no artificial ingredients, flavors, colors, or preservatives. This makes it a healthier option for those looking to enjoy a delicious breakfast without compromising on quality.

Is Making a Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?

This hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of simple and readily available ingredients like bread, sausage, vegetables, and cheese makes it budget-friendly. The versatility of this dish also allows for ingredient substitutions based on availability, reducing costs further. With a rating of 8/10, this recipe offers a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15.

Is This Hearty Sausage Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of high-fat ingredients such as Italian sausage and a significant amount of cheese contributes to the dish's overall saturated fat content.
The recipe calls for 14 slices of bread, which may result in a high carbohydrate content, especially if using refined white bread.
With 6 eggs and 3 cups of milk, the casserole may also be high in cholesterol.

However, the inclusion of bell peppers and green onions does add some nutritional value in the form of vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:

Opt for a leaner protein source, such as turkey or chicken sausage, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or choose a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella.
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Use whole grain bread instead of white bread to boost the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
Experiment with using a combination of whole eggs and egg whites to lower the cholesterol content while maintaining the dish's texture.
Reduce the amount of milk used, or opt for a lower-fat alternative like skim milk or unsweetened almond milk.

Editor's Thoughts on This Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe

This hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The Italian sausage adds a savory depth, while the peppers and green onions provide a fresh and vibrant contrast. The blend of Italian and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and gooey topping, and the bread soaks up the flavorful egg mixture, resulting in a comforting and satisfying dish. The make-ahead option makes it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining. Overall, it's a versatile and delicious breakfast option that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the flavors of the hearty sausage breakfast casserole.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, adding a refreshing and vibrant contrast to the savory casserole.

Caramelized Onion and Bacon Quiche: A rich and indulgent quiche filled with sweet caramelized onions and crispy bacon, providing a luxurious accompaniment to the hearty sausage breakfast casserole.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and a rich broth that will warm you up on a cold day.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty citrus blend, this grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a summer barbecue.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: Fresh mango salsa adds a sweet and tangy flavor to these fish tacos, making them a light and refreshing meal option.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Indulge in this creamy and comforting risotto, filled with earthy mushrooms and savory Parmesan cheese for a satisfying dinner option.

Berry Cobbler: This classic berry cobbler is bursting with sweet and juicy berries, topped with a buttery and golden brown crust for a delightful dessert.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Serve with This Hearty Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable bite-sized treats. Stuffed with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs, these mushrooms are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy fritters are the perfect way to start any meal. With a golden brown exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, they are a delightful way to whet your appetite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Why trust this Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe:

This hearty sausage breakfast casserole recipe is a trusted favorite, featuring Johnsonville Naturals Italian sausage for a flavorful kick. With a blend of Italian blend cheese and mozzarella cheese, this casserole promises a rich and indulgent taste. The inclusion of green onions and bell peppers adds a refreshing crunch, while the Italian seasoning infuses the dish with aromatic flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure a hassle-free cooking experience, making this recipe a reliable choice for a hearty and satisfying breakfast.

Share your thoughts on the Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to this delicious breakfast dish!

FAQ:

How long should I refrigerate the casserole before baking?

I recommend refrigerating the casserole overnight for the best results. If you're short on time, refrigerate it for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Can I use a different type of sausage for this casserole?

Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as breakfast sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage for a meatless option.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. This makes it perfect for a hassle-free breakfast or brunch the next day.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze any leftovers. Simply wrap the individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Just make sure to cook any watery vegetables before adding them to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.