# Ingredient List:
→ Meats
01 - 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), casings removed
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 small onion, finely diced
03 - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
→ Bread
04 - 6 cups cubed day-old bread (white or whole wheat)
→ Dairy
05 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 8 large eggs
→ Seasonings
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
10 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
→ For greasing
11 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or nonstick spray
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sausage, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat as needed.
03 - Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
04 - Spread cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sausage and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
05 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme if using until fully combined.
06 - Pour egg mixture evenly over the casserole. Press gently with a spatula to ensure bread absorbs the liquid.
07 - For optimum texture, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight before baking.
08 - Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until center is set and top is golden brown.
09 - Allow casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
