This Country Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish packed with eggs, sausage, cheese, and crispy potatoes. It’s perfect for starting your day on a tasty note!
Making this casserole feels like you’re having a cozy brunch without leaving the house. I love how you can whip it up the night before, then just pop it in the oven the next morning. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: You can use either pork or turkey sausage for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage is a great choice. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for similar texture and flavor.
Eggs: This recipe relies on large eggs for binding and texture. If you’re vegan or allergic, you can replace eggs with a mixture of silken tofu and a bit of turmeric for color, or use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binding agent.
Bread: White bread works well, but you can swap it for whole grain or sourdough. If you want to keep it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s still slightly dry so it absorbs the egg mixture well.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese for a tasty alternative.
Green Onions: If you don’t have green onions, regular onions or chives can work too. Just chop them finely and adjust the quantity to your taste.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Cooked Just Right?
The key to cooking this casserole perfectly lies in your oven temperature and baking time. Preheat your oven well to ensure even cooking.
- Check the casserole at about 40 minutes. The edges should be puffed and golden, and the eggs should be set but not dry.
- If you added whole eggs on top, they should be cooked to your desired doneness; you may need a few extra minutes for runny yokes.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
Trust me, monitoring closely will lead to a deliciously satisfying breakfast casserole every time!
How to Make Country Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 cups cubed white bread (day-old or slightly toasted)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
For Greasing:
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Country Breakfast Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-50 minutes to bake. After it’s done, let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. So overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly. While it’s heating up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it well with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Sausage:
Next, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and cook it until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as you go. Once done, drain any extra grease and set the sausage aside.
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if you’re using it. Keep whisking until it’s all well combined. This will create a fluffy base for your casserole.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cubed bread, cooked sausage, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together so the bread soaks up some of the egg mixture.
5. Pour and Prepare to Bake:
Pour the mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top for that yummy cheesy goodness.
6. Add Whole Eggs (Optional):
If you want a more rustic look and extra richness, make shallow wells in the casserole and crack whole eggs into 5-6 spots on top. This step is optional but looks great!
7. Bake It Up:
Bake your casserole in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the eggs to be set and the edges to be puffed and golden brown.
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps everything firm up a bit, making it easier to slice.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a fresh touch, slice into squares, and serve warm. This casserole is perfect for a family breakfast or when you have friends over!
Enjoy your meal and the smiles it brings around the table!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, a side of toast, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with hot sauce or salsa for added flavor!
