Best Breakfast Casserole Recipe with Sausage

Introduction

A good breakfast sets the tone for the entire day, and few dishes deliver comfort, convenience, and satisfaction quite like a well-made breakfast casserole. The Best Breakfast Casserole Recipe with Sausage is a classic dish that brings together familiar breakfast ingredients in one hearty, oven-baked meal. Designed to feed a crowd or provide multiple servings throughout the week, this casserole is both practical and indulgent.

What makes this recipe special is its balance. Crispy hash brown potatoes create a sturdy base, while savory breakfast sausage adds richness and depth. Eggs and dairy bind everything together into a soft, custard-like texture, and a generous blend of Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheese delivers creaminess and bold flavor in every bite. The addition of peppers and onions introduces subtle sweetness and freshness, preventing the dish from feeling overly heavy.

This breakfast casserole is ideal for busy mornings, weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or meal prep. It can be prepared in advance, stored easily, reheated without losing quality, and served in neat slices. Its reliability and versatility make it a favorite in many kitchens.

In this detailed guide, you will learn exactly how to prepare this casserole step by step, understand the purpose of each ingredient, discover helpful tips for perfect results, and find answers to common questions. By the end, you will have complete confidence in making a breakfast casserole that is both satisfying and consistently delicious.

Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in achieving the right texture, flavor, and structure. Using the correct amounts and preparing them properly ensures a successful result.

Butter

Half a cup of butter is used to grease the baking dish and enhance the overall richness of the casserole. Butter helps prevent sticking and contributes to browning, especially around the edges and bottom. Its flavor also complements the potatoes and eggs, adding depth without overpowering the dish.

Hash Brown Potatoes

One 30-ounce package of shredded hash brown potatoes forms the base of the casserole. Shredded potatoes work especially well because they absorb the egg mixture evenly while still holding their shape. They bake into a tender yet structured layer that supports the other ingredients. Diced hash browns can be used, but shredded potatoes create a more cohesive texture.

Salt and Pepper

Simple seasoning with salt and pepper ensures that the potatoes and vegetables are flavorful. Because potatoes naturally absorb seasoning, lightly seasoning this layer is essential to prevent blandness.

Breakfast Sausage

One pound of bulk breakfast sausage provides savory flavor and richness. Cooking the sausage before assembling the casserole allows excess fat to be removed and ensures even distribution throughout the dish. The sausage adds depth and makes the casserole filling enough to serve as a complete meal.

Green Pepper

Half a green pepper, chopped, adds mild bitterness and a fresh, slightly crisp texture. Green peppers balance the richness of the sausage and cheese while contributing color.

Red Pepper

Half a red pepper, chopped, adds gentle sweetness and enhances visual appeal. Red peppers soften during cooking and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Onion

Half a small onion, diced, provides aromatic depth and subtle sweetness. Cooking the onion before baking mellows its sharpness and allows its flavor to develop fully.

Monterey Jack Cheese

One and a half cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese contribute creaminess and smooth melting. This cheese helps bind the casserole and creates a soft, rich interior.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

One and a half cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese add bold flavor and a slightly tangy note. Cheddar also creates a golden top layer that enhances both taste and appearance.

Eggs

Eight large eggs form the structural backbone of the casserole. When combined with dairy and baked, the eggs create a custard that holds all the ingredients together while remaining tender.

Dairy

One and one-third cups of half and half, cream, evaporated milk, or whole milk provide moisture and richness. This ingredient prevents the eggs from becoming dry and helps achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

Seasoned Salt

One teaspoon of seasoned salt adds complexity and enhances the savory elements of the dish without overwhelming them.

Kosher Salt

Half a teaspoon of kosher salt, or a reduced amount if using table salt, ensures even seasoning throughout the egg mixture.

Black Pepper

Half a teaspoon of black pepper adds gentle heat and warmth, complementing the sausage and cheese.

Dry Mustard

A quarter teaspoon of dry mustard is optional but recommended. It enhances the cheese flavor and adds subtle depth without making the dish taste mustard-forward.

Preparation Method

Following these steps carefully will ensure even cooking, balanced flavor, and a well-set casserole.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter, coating the bottom and sides thoroughly. This step prevents sticking and improves browning.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the breakfast sausage. Cook until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Once cooked, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped green pepper, red pepper, and diced onion. Cook for three to five minutes until softened and fragrant. This step enhances flavor and reduces excess moisture in the casserole.

Step 4: Build the Potato Base

Spread the shredded hash brown potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper. This layer forms the foundation of the casserole.

Step 5: Add Sausage and Vegetables

Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the hash browns, followed by the sautéed peppers and onions. This ensures every slice contains a balanced mix of ingredients.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the sausage and vegetables, then follow with the sharp cheddar cheese. The layered cheese melts into the casserole and forms a flavorful top.

Step 7: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, dairy, seasoned salt, kosher salt, black pepper, and dry mustard if using. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients. Gently tap the baking dish on the counter to help the liquid settle evenly.

Step 9: Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. The center should be set, and the top should be lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the casserole firm up for cleaner servings.

Tips for Best Results

Allowing the casserole to rest before serving is crucial for structure. Cutting too soon may cause it to fall apart. Using room-temperature eggs and dairy helps the mixture combine smoothly and bake evenly. Cooking the sausage and vegetables beforehand prevents excess grease and moisture from affecting the texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions gently to maintain texture.

Serving Suggestions

This breakfast casserole is filling enough to serve on its own, but it pairs well with fresh fruit, simple bread, or a light beverage. It works equally well for breakfast, brunch, or even a breakfast-for-dinner meal.

Conclusion and Frequently Asked Questions

The Best Breakfast Casserole Recipe with Sausage is a dependable, comforting dish that brings together classic breakfast flavors in one satisfying bake. Its make-ahead convenience, hearty texture, and balanced taste make it a reliable choice for both everyday meals and special occasions.

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Below are answers to common questions about this recipe.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, the casserole can be fully assembled, covered, and refrigerated overnight. This makes it ideal for busy mornings or hosting guests.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer liquid. A knife inserted into the middle should come out mostly clean.

Why should the casserole rest before serving?

Resting allows the eggs to finish setting and makes the casserole easier to slice and serve.

Can I reheat leftovers?

Yes, leftovers reheat well. Warm individual portions slowly to maintain texture and moisture.

What makes this casserole filling?

The combination of potatoes, sausage, eggs, and cheese creates a balanced, protein-rich dish that keeps you satisfied for hours.