If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish to make ahead and wake up to, this Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining savory sausage, tender potatoes, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs on a buttery crescent roll base, it’s the ultimate morning crowd-pleaser that practically makes itself overnight!
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the entire casserole the night before and wake up to a hassle-free, delicious breakfast.
Layered flavors: Each layer—from crescent roll base to sausage, potatoes, and cheese—builds a mouthwatering combination that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Family-friendly and versatile: Everyone loves this dish, and you can swap out sausage or cheese for your favorite alternatives.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, weekend treat, or casual breakfast, this casserole fits right in and impresses every time.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The beauty of this casserole is in its simple, classic ingredients — each one plays a crucial role in creating that cozy, comforting texture and rich flavor. From the buttery crescent roll base to the hearty sausage and tender potatoes, topped with gooey cheese and creamy eggs, these ingredients blend perfectly to satisfy any hungry crowd.
- Refrigerated crescent rolls: These provide a flaky, buttery foundation that’s easier to handle than making dough from scratch.
- Hot browned sausage: Adds savory spice and protein; feel free to use mild or turkey sausage for a lighter touch.
- Frozen Ore-Ida O’Brien potatoes: Perfectly seasoned potatoes that save prep time and add great texture.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar preferred): Melts beautifully, bringing richness and sharpness; mix up with mozzarella or pepper jack for variety.
- Large eggs and whole milk: These create the custardy egg layer that sets the dish as it bakes.
How to Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crescent Roll Base
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then carefully press your refrigerated crescent roll dough across the bottom. This buttery base will crisp up in the oven to provide a golden, flaky layer that’s the perfect anchor for all the toppings.
Step 2: Layer Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese
Next, sprinkle your hot, browned sausage evenly over the crescent dough to spread that savory goodness throughout. Follow with a layer of seasoned Ore-Ida O’Brien potatoes, which add a delicious, tender bite. Finish this step by covering everything with shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese, making sure to spread it nicely for a melty, golden topping.
Step 3: Mix Eggs and Milk, Then Pour
In a large bowl, whisk together six large eggs and two cups of whole milk until smooth and slightly frothy. This mixture is what will bind all the ingredients together into a custard-like texture. Pour the egg and milk blend evenly over the layered casserole, letting it seep into every nook and cranny.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This slow soak allows the crescent dough to rise and absorb all those savory flavors, making the casserole even more delectable by morning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Before baking, let your casserole rest on the counter while you preheat the oven to 350°F. Then, bake uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the eggs are just set in the center and the cheese is bubbling and turning golden. Remember, careful not to overbake to keep it beautifully moist.
How to Serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Top your casserole with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also add a delightful tang and heat that pairs perfectly with the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a fresh fruit salad or a green salad can balance the richness beautifully. Crispy bacon or a light glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice are also fantastic accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole straight from the pan for a rustic vibe, or cut it into neat squares and plate with colorful garnishes for brunch guests. You can even customize individual servings by adding sliced avocado, tomato, or a drizzle of pesto on top for an unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and are best enjoyed within 3-4 days. This keeps the casserole fresh while preserving the flavors and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. Just remember the baking time might be a bit longer when starting from frozen.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry, but the oven will help maintain that lovely baked texture best.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While hot sausage adds great flavor and spice, you can substitute with cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
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Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
Yes, chilling overnight helps the flavors meld and allows the crescent roll dough to rise and soak up moisture from the eggs and cheese, resulting in a tender, cohesive casserole.
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Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
You can! Swap the crescent rolls for a gluten-free dough alternative or base such as cauliflower crust or a gluten-free bread layer to keep the dish gluten-free while still delicious.
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How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set in the center — it should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan—and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.
Final Thoughts
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese Recipe is pure comfort food magic that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing brunch guests with minimal effort. Give it a try—you’ll love waking up to a hot and hearty breakfast already waiting for you!
Print
Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Potatoes, and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and convenient dish perfect for busy mornings or cozy brunches. Layers of flaky crescent rolls, savory browned hot sausage, crispy Ore-Ida O’Brien potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese come together under a rich custard of eggs and milk. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, this casserole offers a delicious, satisfying start to your day with minimal morning effort.
Ingredients
Crescent Roll Base
- 1 package refrigerated crescent rolls
Filling
- 1 pound browned hot sausage
- 1/2 package Ore-Ida O’Brien frozen potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and lay the crescent dough evenly along the bottom, pressing the seams together to form a crust.
- Layer the filling: Spread the browned hot sausage evenly over the crescent roll base. Follow with a layer of Ore-Ida O’Brien frozen potatoes, then sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs with 2 cups whole milk until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Combine and refrigerate: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered casserole. Cover the pan and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to set.
- Bake the casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it rest on the counter while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the eggs are just set in the center. Be careful not to overbake to maintain a creamy texture.
- Rest before serving: Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the sausage is fully cooked and crumbled before layering.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Using frozen potatoes saves time; however, you can also use freshly diced and cooked potatoes.
- Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps improve texture and flavor.
- For a milder flavor, use mild sausage instead of hot sausage.
