If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, comforting morning dish that’s both crowd-pleasing and straightforward to make, this Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with savory sausage, melty cheddar, fresh veggies, and fluffy eggs, it’s a breakfast baked delight that warms the soul and satisfies every appetite.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Perfect for feeding a crowd: It easily serves a large family or a brunch gathering without complicated prep.
One-pan convenience: Everything bakes together, which means minimal cleanup—hello, more time to relax!
Balanced flavors and textures: The savory pork sausage pairs beautifully with sharp cheddar and crisp bell peppers for a flavor-packed bite.
Make ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy a stress-free morning where breakfast is already waiting for you right from the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients & Substitutions
This Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients that build layers of taste and texture. Each component plays a key role—from creamy eggs and sharp cheddar to vibrant vegetables and hearty sausage, the combo makes every bite full and indulgent.
- Pork sausage: Use a flavorful breakfast sausage for that juicy, savory punch—turkey sausage is a lighter alternative that still packs taste.
- Eggs: They’re the backbone of this casserole, binding everything together with fluffy richness.
- Sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that keeps the casserole tender and creamy.
- Cheddar cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar for boldness, but mild cheddar or even pepper jack can add a fun twist.
- Bell peppers and green onions: These bring freshness, color, and a crunch that lifts the casserole beyond just rich flavors.
- Milk: Lightens the egg mixture for a softer texture; whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk can work perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Basic but essential seasoning to enhance every flavor in the dish.
How to Make Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a nice spray with cooking spray so nothing sticks later on—this sets you up for an easy release and cleanup after baking.
Step 2: Whip Up the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine twelve eggs with sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Use a mixer on low speed just until everything is blended evenly—no need to overmix. This mixture will give you that creamy, rich base we all love in a breakfast casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your pork sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns beautifully. Once cooked, drain most of the grease for a lighter casserole, then toss the savory sausage right into your egg mixture bowl.
Step 4: Sauté the Veggies
Using the same skillet (hello, extra flavor!), sauté diced green and red bell peppers along with chopped green onions for a couple of minutes until they just soften. Adding these vibrant veggies back into the egg and sausage mix gives your casserole that fresh crunch and bright color.
Step 5: Bake and Enjoy
Pour the fully combined mixture into your greased pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 35 to 50 minutes until the edges are set but the center remains slightly jiggly—that perfect balance means your casserole will be moist and tender once cooled a bit.
How to Serve Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or cilantro take this casserole over the top, adding a burst of color and subtle brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors and add creaminess or heat as you like.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with simple, fresh sides such as sliced avocado, a citrus fruit salad, or even crispy breakfast potatoes. These easy additions complement the rich, cheesy baked goodness without overwhelming your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in rustic cast iron straight from the oven for a charming farmhouse feel, or cut into neat squares and plate them stacked with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a side of fresh greens for a brunch buffet. You can also pop leftovers into breakfast burritos or sandwiches for a versatile twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days—perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully—just wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly in freezer-safe wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months, making it a wonderful make-ahead meal for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed casserole portions in the microwave until warmed through, or for a crispier top, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. Either way, your Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe will regain its delightful texture and flavor.
FAQs
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Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the pork sausage for a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms and tofu crumbles. You can also add extra veggies or beans to keep that hearty feel.
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Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will start cold.
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What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
Sharp cheddar cheese is classic for its bold flavor and great melting quality, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for spice, gouda for creaminess, or a mix of cheeses to suit your taste.
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Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no bread or flour. Just be sure to use gluten-free sausage to avoid any hidden gluten in processed meat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about diving into a warm slice of this Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe—it feels like a loving morning hug on a plate. Whether it’s for family breakfasts, holiday brunches, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers on flavor, ease, and that delightful mix of textures. Give it a try soon, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to breakfast dishes!
Print
Sausage and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and delicious breakfast casserole combining savory pork sausage, fluffy eggs, vibrant bell peppers, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a weekend brunch or make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 2 pounds pork sausage
Egg Mixture
- 12 eggs
- 1 cup sour cream (light or regular) (240 g)
- 1/4 cup milk (60 ml)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200 g)
Vegetables
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Egg Base: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Use an electric mixer on low speed and blend just until all ingredients are evenly combined without overbeating.
- Cook Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork sausage and cook until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain most of the excess grease from the sausage and transfer it into the bowl with the egg mixture.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet (with residual flavors from sausage), add the diced green and red bell peppers along with the chopped green onions. Sauté the vegetables for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened but still vibrant. Add the sautéed vegetables to the egg and sausage mixture and stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is just slightly jiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This makes serving easier and helps the casserole set further for better texture.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through for a quick and tasty meal.
Notes
- Adapted from Pretty Providence.
- This casserole can be made ahead and frozen for easy meal prep. Freeze before baking, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
