If you’re looking for a delightful, crowd-pleasing breakfast idea that combines savory sausage, crunchy croutons, and melty cheddar cheese, this Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe is an absolute gem. It’s the perfect hearty start to a weekend morning or holiday brunch, offering cozy flavors with a satisfyingly rich texture. The mix of tender eggs soaked into crisp croutons alongside seasoned sausage makes every bite a comforting celebration of breakfast done right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe is easy because it calls for simple, familiar ingredients that each play a crucial role. Every component brings its own special touch, whether it is flavor, creaminess, or texture, ensuring a perfectly harmonious dish.
- Sausage (1 lb): Provides savory, meaty flavor and a hearty protein base.
- Croutons (5 oz bag): Add a satisfying crunch and soak up the custard mixture for ideal texture contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully, adding rich, gooey cheesiness that ties everything together.
- Eggs (8): The foundation for the custard, binding ingredients into a luscious, tender casserole.
- Milk (2½ cups): Adds moisture and helps create that smooth egg custard consistency.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Boosts creaminess making the casserole indulgently rich.
- Dry mustard (1½ tsp): Adds a subtle tangy depth to elevate the overall flavor.
- Dried minced onion (1 tbsp): Brings mild onion flavor without adding wetness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors.
How to Make Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by lightly spraying a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and the finished dish easy to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until it is browned and no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat. This step is key because it crisps up the sausage and intensifies its flavor without making the casserole greasy.
Step 3: Layer the Croutons, Sausage, and Cheese
Arrange the croutons evenly in a single layer across the bottom of the baking dish. Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage over the croutons, and top everything with shredded cheddar cheese. This layering gives you pockets of crunch, meaty goodness, and cheesy indulgence with every bite.
Step 4: Mix and Pour the Custard
Whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, dried minced onion, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish, allowing the croutons and sausage to soak it up.
Step 5: Refrigerate to Let Flavors Meld
Cover the casserole and refrigerate for at least one hour, or up to overnight. This resting period helps the croutons absorb the custard, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful casserole when baked.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Preheat your oven to 350ºF, then bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and no longer jiggly. The top should be lightly golden and inviting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, feel free to garnish with dried parsley for a pop of color and a fresh touch before serving your fantastic Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe to hungry guests.
How to Serve Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of chives add a burst of color and a touch of brightness that complements the rich flavors perfectly. For an extra special touch, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can add excitement on the plate.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad or lightly dressed greens to provide a refreshing contrast. For a heartier brunch, serve with crispy breakfast potatoes or buttery toast to round out the meal and satisfy every appetite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming brunch presentation, or bake the casserole in muffin tins for grab-and-go mini versions. Another fun idea is layering the casserole in a clear glass dish so guests can admire the colorful layers before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an easy breakfast option for busy mornings. Each reheated slice tastes nearly as good as fresh out of the oven.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before baking by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding a little extra time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions gently in the microwave or in a 350ºF oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, warming until heated through. This way, you can enjoy your Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe anytime without losing its delicious charm.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this casserole?
Absolutely! Whether you prefer spicy Italian sausage, mild breakfast sausage, or even turkey sausage, the dish adapts wonderfully. Just cook the sausage thoroughly before layering as directed.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap the milk, heavy cream, and cheese for dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and a vegan cheese substitute. The texture may vary slightly, but the casserole will still be tasty.
How long can I refrigerate the casserole before baking?
It’s best to refrigerate the casserole for at least one hour to let the croutons absorb the custard, but you can prepare it up to overnight for deeper flavor and convenience.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or onions can add great flavor and nutrition. Just cook any veggies first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
What is the best way to tell when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The top should also be slightly golden and firm to the touch.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly a keeper for anyone who loves breakfast that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it makes mornings more joyful and gatherings more memorable. So go ahead, give it a whirl and share a warm, delicious meal with people you love!
Print
Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 to 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time, assume minimum 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage & Crouton Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and comforting morning meal perfect for family gatherings or brunch. Combining savory cooked sausage, crunchy croutons, and melted cheddar cheese with a rich custard made from eggs, milk, and cream, this casserole offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Prepared ahead and baked until golden and set, it’s an effortless way to serve a filling breakfast that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage
- 1 (5-oz) bag croutons
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 eggs
- 2½ cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ tsp dry mustard
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until it is no longer pink, making sure it’s thoroughly cooked. Drain off the fat to reduce greasiness.
- Layer croutons, sausage, and cheese: Arrange the croutons evenly in a single layer in the baking dish. Then, spread the cooked sausage over the croutons. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer.
- Make the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, dry mustard, dried minced onion, salt, and pepper until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour custard over casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage, cheese, and croutons in the baking dish, ensuring it soaks through properly.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to let the flavors meld and the croutons absorb the custard.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Remove the cover and bake the casserole for 45 to 60 minutes, until the center is fully set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Optional — sprinkle dried parsley on top for color and a touch of herbaceous flavor. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For a lower fat version, substitute turkey sausage and use reduced-fat milk and cheese.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before for an easy morning bake.
- Adding vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach can add color and nutrition.
- If croutons are unavailable, cubed day-old bread toasted slightly can be a good substitute.
