If you are looking for a hearty yet effortless morning meal, this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that you can prep the night before, combining savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheddar cheese layered with soft, soaked bread. The magic is in letting it rest overnight, so every bite bursts with rich, comforting flavors that make breakfast feel like a special occasion, even on the busiest mornings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe are simple but essential to achieving the perfect balance of texture, richness, and color. Each one plays a key role: the sausage brings savory depth, the eggs and milk form a custardy base, and the bread soaks up all the delicious flavors. Fresh veggies are optional but add a splash of color and a boost of nutrition.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: Use your favorite variety for a flavorful, meaty foundation.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 6 eggs: The binding agent that creates the rich, custardy texture in the casserole.
- 1 1/2 cups milk of choice: Helps soften the bread and lighten the egg mixture.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: A subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the ingredients.
- 4 cups cubed bread: The base that soaks up the savory custard, creating a soft yet structured bite.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, tasty layer that binds everything together.
- Optional: chopped bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms: Fresh veggies add brightness and an extra dimension of flavor.
How to Make Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Start by warming a skillet over medium heat and cooking the breakfast sausage with chopped onions. Let them cook until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions become tender and fragrant. Draining any excess fat is important to keep the casserole from being greasy but still deliciously rich.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth and well-blended. This mixture will soak into the bread cubes, ensuring each bite is creamy and flavorful.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Grease a 9×13 baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Begin layering the cubed bread, followed by the sausage and onion mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, then add any optional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for fresh bursts of flavor and color.
Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. This step is crucial because the liquid needs to saturate the bread thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, then place it in the refrigerator overnight to let all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and uncover it. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center is set without any jiggle. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing carefully for serving.
How to Serve Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add a pop of green and a fresh aroma. A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce can also complement the savory richness and offer a little zing to each bite.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this casserole with light, refreshing sides like fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad to balance out the hearty main dish. A side of crispy bacon or avocado slices also pairs wonderfully to round out your breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming brunch presentation or sprinkle extra cheese and herbs on top just before baking for an extra appetizing look. Adding colorful veggies on top before baking can make the dish look vibrant and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover casserole can be covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you’ve got a ready-to-go breakfast anytime!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes covered with foil to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, but the oven method keeps the texture closest to freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also swap in a plant-based sausage alternative for a hearty vegetarian twist.
What type of bread works best?
Day-old or slightly stale bread works best since it absorbs the egg mixture better without turning mushy. A sturdy white or whole wheat bread will give the right texture.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. Just use a cheese that melts well.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly after baking?
It’s best to freeze before baking. Freezing after baking can affect the texture, but leftovers can still be frozen and reheated with good results if stored properly.
How long can I leave the casserole in the fridge before baking?
Overnight is ideal, usually 8 to 12 hours. You can extend it up to 24 hours, but the bread may become overly soggy, so overnight soaking strikes the perfect balance.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a wonderful way to start your day without fuss but with loads of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a stress-free morning meal, it’s a winner every time. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do—it truly turns breakfast into a celebration.
Print
Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes prep + overnight refrigeration + 50 minutes baking
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and convenient dish perfect for busy mornings. Featuring savory breakfast sausage, sautéed onions, eggs, milk, and cheese layered over cubed bread, it soaks overnight to create a hearty, flavorful meal ready to bake in the morning. Optional veggies add extra nutrition and color, making it ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 6 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Ingredients
- Chopped bell peppers
- Spinach
- Mushrooms
Instructions
- Cook sausage and onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage along with chopped onions until the sausage is fully browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Mix egg base: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined for a smooth custard.
- Assemble casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the cubed bread evenly on the bottom, then spread the cooked sausage and onion mixture over it. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, adding any optional chopped veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms as desired.
- Pour egg mixture: Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it saturates the bread cubes evenly for the perfect soak.
- Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, enhancing flavor and texture.
- Preheat oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Bake casserole: Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm and set.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing into portions and serving warm for a satisfying breakfast.
Notes
- Using stale or day-old bread helps absorb the egg mixture better.
- You can substitute breakfast sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add any favorite vegetables or swap cheddar with other cheese types.
- Cover tightly when refrigerating to prevent odors from other foods.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
