why make this recipe
Making an Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a smart way to save time in the mornings. You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it when you’re ready. This means no fussing around before breakfast; just serve and enjoy.
This dish is perfect for busy families or anyone with a hectic schedule. It’s a hearty meal full of flavor that feeds many people. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add your favorite ingredients or leftovers.
equipment needed for Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
To prepare this delicious casserole, you’ll need several kitchen tools. First, grab a large oven-safe dish, ideally measuring 9×13 inches. This size is perfect for even cooking and easy serving.
A large skillet is crucial for cooking your sausage and veggies. You’ll also need a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to break up the sausage. Make sure to have mixing bowls handy for whisking the eggs and other ingredients together.
Lastly, you may want some plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the casserole before refrigerating. Having all these tools ready will simplify your cooking experience.
What You Need to Make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
- 4 cups (175g or 6 oz) cubes of crusty bread*
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground pork sausage, casings removed*
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or Italian seasoning, optional
- 3/4 cup (100g) chopped yellow onion (1/2 of a large onion)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups (275g or 9-10 oz) chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup (100g or 3 oz) sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup roughly chopped fresh spinach
- 12 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2/3 cup (160ml) milk or half-and-half*
- 1 cup (100g or 3.5 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional garnish: green onion and/or chopped parsley
How to Cook Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Step by Step
Begin by greasing your 9×13-inch oven-safe dish. Make sure it’s well coated so your casserole doesn’t stick. Next, arrange the cubes of bread in an even layer across the bottom of the pan.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground sausage. Use a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to break the sausage into bite-size pieces as it cooks. You want to make sure it’s evenly browned.
Once the sausage is starting to brown, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. These will add depth and flavor to the mix. Next, toss in the chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, and spinach. Cook everything until it softens, which should take about 5–6 minutes. The sausage should be mostly cooked through at this stage.
After cooking, remove the skillet from heat. Spread the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the dish. This layer will infuse the bread with flavor while baking.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, black pepper, milk (or half-and-half), and cheese. Make sure everything is well combined. Once mixed, pour this egg mixture evenly over the sausage and vegetable layer in the dish. For added taste, you can sprinkle a little more salt and pepper on top.
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it. The casserole should chill for at least 30 minutes and can be left in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes while you preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Once the oven is ready, remove the cover from the casserole and bake it. Keep an eye on it as it cooks. You want the top to turn golden, the edges to be crisp, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This usually takes about 40–45 minutes.
After it’s cooked, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling helps you slice it easily. Once cooled, slice it into squares and serve immediately. Leftovers are just as tasty and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat any leftover portions in the microwave when you’re ready to eat again.
how to make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Making this breakfast casserole is simple and manageable. Preparation is key, and once you get the hang of it, you can adjust and play around with ingredients. This dish is forgiving, and you can swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
Start with the bread. Using crusty bread gives a nice texture. You can use stale bread too, as it absorbs flavors well. For the sausage, ground pork is a great choice, but feel free to experiment with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Chop your vegetables in whatever way you prefer. Dice your bell peppers and onions small for even cooking. The mushrooms add a lovely earthiness, while spinach adds nutrients and color. The garlic is a must for flavor, making everything taste even better.
Be sure to whisk your eggs thoroughly with the milk or half-and-half. This gives the casserole a fluffy texture. Combining everything in layers ensures that every bite is filled with flavor.
how to serve Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Serving your Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole can be just as simple as making it. Once you slice it into squares, place the pieces on individual plates for everyone.
For added flair, sprinkle some chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a burst of color to your plate.
You can enjoy it warm on its own, or pair it with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. Be creative with your serving style; the casserole is versatile enough for brunch gatherings or a casual weekday breakfast.
what to serve with Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
To make your breakfast even heartier, consider serving the casserole with some side items. Fresh fruit like sliced oranges, berries, or melon adds a sweet balance to the savory casserole.
You can also include some yogurt on the side. A dollop of Greek yogurt with honey can provide a refreshing twist. Another great option is crispy bacon or turkey bacon, which pairs nicely with the flavors in the casserole.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can work well, particularly for brunch. These sides offer variety and help brighten up your meal.
how to store Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Storing your breakfast casserole is straightforward. After it has cooled down, place any leftovers in an airtight container. Ensure it’s sealed well to keep it fresh and prevent any odor absorption in your fridge.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. To do this, cut it into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions into a freezer bag or container.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or you can reheat it directly from the freezer in the oven.
tips to make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
For the best results with your breakfast casserole, use day-old bread or bread that’s slightly stale. This helps to absorb more of the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Adding your choice of spices can elevate the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil based on your preference.
If you’re short on time but still want the flavor, try using pre-cooked sausage or steak as a shortcut.
You can also add more vegetables or swap them based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, diced tomatoes, or even broccoli can make a great impact.
Lastly, be mindful of not overbaking the casserole. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.
variation
There are many variations for this breakfast casserole to suit different preferences. For a Mexican twist, add black beans, corn, and diced jalapeños. Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack for some heat!
If you prefer a Mediterranean flavor, include feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. You can also substitute spinach with kale for a heartier option.
Another great variation is to make it vegetarian by removing the sausage and adding more vegetables and a plant-based protein, like crumbled tofu or lentils.
best time to make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
The best time to prepare your Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole is the night before you plan to serve it. This makes mornings effortless and allows the flavors to meld together as the casserole sits.
It’s also an excellent choice for weekends or brunch gatherings when you want something hearty for family or friends. Having it ready to go saves time and lets you enjoy your company without spending hours in the kitchen.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is not allowing the casserole to cool down before slicing. This can lead to a messy serving and can compromise the overall texture.
Overbaking is another frequent pitfall. If you leave it in the oven too long, it may become dry. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
Avoid using too much moisture in the mix. Ingredients like extra milk or sauce can make the casserole soggy. It’s essential to strike the right balance for the best texture.
nutritional notes
This breakfast casserole packs a nutritious punch with a balance of protein, healthy fats, and veggies. The eggs are a great source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
If you want a healthier version, use whole-grain bread and turkey sausage. This helps increase fiber content while keeping the dish deliciously satisfying.
Be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your caloric intake. Keeping these factors in mind allows you to enjoy this hearty meal without overindulging.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole without meat?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and add more veggies or a plant-based protein like tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat slices in the microwave or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Cut the baked casserole into portions, wrap them properly, and freeze. Just ensure to reheat gently to maintain texture.
conclusion
An Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic solution for those who want a delicious, filling meal without the morning hassle. With the right ingredients and a little prep, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast any day of the week.
This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So go ahead and try it; you might find it becomes a regular part of your breakfast rotation!
