Can I substitute the sausage?

Yes, cooked bacon or ham works well as an alternative for a different meat flavor.

How can I make a vegetarian version?

Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist.

Chilling the casserole for at least 30 minutes helps the bread absorb the egg mixture for a better texture.

Adding chopped jalapeños provides a spicy kick that complements the savory ingredients nicely.

Fresh fruit or a light salad are great choices to balance the richness of the bake.

A hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast casserole featuring savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese—perfect for brunch or make-ahead mornings.

This casserole has become a weekend favorite in our family, bringing everyone together around the breakfast table with smiles and full plates.

Breakfast Sausage: 1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey) casings removed
Onion: 1 small onion finely diced
Bell Pepper: 1 bell pepper (red or green) diced
Day-old Bread: 6 cups (about 250 g) day-old bread cubed (white or whole wheat)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (200 g)
Whole Milk: 2 cups (480 ml)
Eggs: 8 large eggs
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon optional
Unsalted Butter or Nonstick Spray: 1 tablespoon for greasing

Preheat and Grease:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray
Cook Sausage:: In a large skillet over medium heat cook the sausage breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through about 6–8 minutes Drain excess fat if necessary
Sauté Vegetables:: Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened Remove from heat and let cool slightly
Layer Casserole:: Spread cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish Top with the sausage and vegetable mixture Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top
Mix Eggs:: In a large bowl whisk together eggs milk salt pepper and thyme (if using) until well combined
Combine:: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole Gently press down with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid
Optional Chill:: For best texture cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight
Bake:: Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown
Cool and Serve:: Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving

This dish always brings back memories of lazy Sunday mornings with family gathered around sharing good food and laughter

Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick Serve with fresh fruit or a side salad for a balanced meal

Large skillet Mixing bowls Whisk 9x13-inch baking dish Spatula Knife and cutting board

Contains Eggs milk (dairy) wheat (gluten) May contain Soy (depending on bread and sausage brand) Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens

This breakfast casserole is a delightful way to start any day with a filling and flavorful meal

→ Can I substitute the sausage?: Yes, cooked bacon or ham works well as an alternative for a different meat flavor.
→ How can I make a vegetarian version?: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist.
→ Is it better to refrigerate before baking?: Chilling the casserole for at least 30 minutes helps the bread absorb the egg mixture for a better texture.
→ What can I add for extra spice?: Adding chopped jalapeños provides a spicy kick that complements the savory ingredients nicely.
→ What are suitable side dishes?: Fresh fruit or a light salad are great choices to balance the richness of the bake.