If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that practically makes itself while you sleep, then you absolutely have to try this Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It combines savory sausage and crispy bacon with fluffy sourdough bread soaked in a rich, cheesy egg custard that bakes into pure morning magic. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping ahead for a fun brunch, this dish is all about bold flavors, simple prep, and that unbeatable, ooey-gooey texture that makes breakfast feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward, essential ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From the hearty breakfast sausage and smoky bacon to the tangy bite of cheddar cheese and flavorful spices, every element plays a key role in creating a symphony of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: The savory base that adds a rich, meaty flavor to your casserole.
- 1 cup diced bacon: Provides a smoky crunch and depth, perfectly complementing the sausage.
- 12 oz sourdough bread (1-inch cubes, about 8-10 cups): The fluffy, tangy bread soaks up the custard beautifully without becoming soggy.
- 2 1/2 cups milk: Helps create the creamy custard binding all ingredients together.
- 8 large eggs: The protein-packed glue that sets your casserole and gives it a luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami depth for a more complex taste.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a hint of herbaceous freshness throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika: Adds gentle warmth and a lovely color.
- 1/4 teaspoon each onion & garlic powder: Layered flavors that make every bite taste richer.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the components perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: A mild kick to balance the creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, cheesy highlight that binds and blankets the dish in melty goodness.
- Chives, parsley, green onion, sour cream (optional, for serving): Fresh garnishes to add pops of color and extra flavor at the table.
How to Make Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by greasing a 9×13 inch square baking dish or giving it a light spray with cooking spray. This little step ensures your casserole easily slides out after baking and keeps every bite intact.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then brown your breakfast sausage and diced bacon together. Stir often to break the meat into small, even pieces. Once beautifully browned and fragrant, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside. This combo provides the hearty backbone of your casserole’s flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Egg and Milk Custard
In a large measuring jug or bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and all your spices: dried parsley, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy mixture will soak into the bread and bind every ingredient into one harmonious dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Place your cubed sourdough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread the cooked sausage and bacon mixture over the bread, then generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture over everything, gently pressing any bread pieces that haven’t soaked up the custard to ensure an even texture. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least six hours. This overnight soak turns the bread custard into a perfectly moist, fluffy masterpiece.
Step 5: Bake Your Casserole
When it’s time to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F. Let the casserole sit at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake it uncovered for 45 minutes or until the center is fully set—no jiggly middle here! The top should be bubbly and lightly golden, signaling it’s ready to delight your taste buds.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool on your kitchen counter for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps everything firm up just right, making it easier to cut and serve without any mess.
How to Serve Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped chives, parsley, or green onions brings a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness that pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole. A dollop of sour cream on the side can mellow and elevate the flavors even more, creating an irresistible balance in every bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is satisfyingly rich on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Consider a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some fresh fruit salad for a juicy contrast. Steamed asparagus or roasted tomatoes can also round out the meal beautifully if you want something savory to complement.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins to give guests their own personalized portions. You can also create a casserole bar where everyone adds their favorite toppings—like avocado slices, hot sauce, or extra cheese—to customize their slice. This extra touch makes your Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe feel festive and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep deliciously for up to three days and actually tastes even better as the flavors meld. Just be sure to cover it well to maintain moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions to enjoy later by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen casserole keeps well for up to two months, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping ahead of time.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Reheating in a microwave works too for a quick fix—just cover to avoid drying out and heat in short bursts to keep that cheesy goodness intact.
FAQs
Can I use another type of bread instead of sourdough?
Absolutely! While sourdough provides great flavor and structure, you can substitute with French bread, ciabatta, or even a sturdy white bread. Just make sure to use a bread firm enough to hold up to soaking overnight without turning mushy.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage and bacon with your favorite plant-based sausage or add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. This way, you still get the hearty texture and flavor without meat.
How far in advance can I assemble the casserole?
You can assemble and refrigerate the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. The overnight soak is perfect for allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture, but avoid longer storage as it might affect texture.
Can I use different kinds of cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist.
What should I do if my casserole isn’t fully set in the center after baking?
If the center is still runny after the initial baking time, simply return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Every oven varies, so a little extra time can help achieve that perfect custard consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole recipe has become a true favorite in my kitchen, and once you try it, I’m sure it will in yours too. Its effortless prep, warm flavors, and comforting texture make it ideal for any weekend morning or special occasion. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of breakfast bliss that’s bursting with cheesy, savory goodness. You won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (excluding overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Overnight Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch. Made with savory breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, and tender sourdough bread cubes soaked in a rich, cheesy egg mixture, this casserole is easy to prepare the night before and baked to golden perfection in the morning. Topped with cheddar cheese and garnished with fresh herbs, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines comfort and convenience.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup diced bacon
Bread
- 12 oz sourdough bread, sliced into 1 inch cubes (about 8–10 cups)
Egg Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 8 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Cheese & Toppings
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chives, parsley, green onion, sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch square baking dish with butter or spray it well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage and diced bacon together. Stir frequently to break up the meat into small pieces and cook evenly until fully browned. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Egg Base: In a large measuring jug or bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, ground paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Place the cubed sourdough bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the cooked sausage and bacon mixture evenly over the bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything, pressing down gently with a spoon to ensure all bread pieces soak up the liquid. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow flavors to meld and bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake the Casserole: When ready to cook, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the uncovered dish for about 45 minutes, or until the center is fully set and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool on the countertop for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream if desired for extra flavor and freshness.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared the night before, making morning meal prep quick and easy.
- Use sourdough bread cubes that are slightly stale or toasted for better texture and absorption.
- Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite sharp or mild cheese blend.
- Leftovers store well covered in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the egg mixture.
