Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing breakfast dish that's perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this hearty Breakfast Sausage Casserole. Packed with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and a light, fluffy egg mixture, this dish is sure to be a hit. Read on to discover how to create this delectable casserole step-by-step and bring a warm, satisfying start to your day.
What is a Breakfast Sausage Casserole?
A Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a baked dish that combines layers of sausage, cheese, and a seasoned egg mixture, all nestled atop a buttery crescent roll dough base. It’s an all-in-one breakfast solution that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, whether it’s for a special family gathering, a holiday morning, or a simple weekend brunch. This casserole is both flavorful and filling, offering a delightful combination of textures and tastes in every bite.
Ingredients List for Breakfast Sausage Casserole
To make this scrumptious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1 refrigerated crescent roll dough sheet
Substitutions and Variations
This Breakfast Sausage Casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some substitution ideas and variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences:
Substitutions:
- Sausage: You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage to cater to different dietary needs.
- Cheese: Swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Milk: Use 2% milk, skim milk, or non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk.
- Seasonings: Feel free to add or substitute seasonings. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a delightful aroma and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetable Addition: Add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients and color.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for those who like it hot.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the crescent roll dough with a layer of thinly sliced sweet potatoes or zucchini for a lower-carb version.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this Breakfast Sausage Casserole is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a perfect dish every time:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, brown the breakfast sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess oil and set the sausage aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough sheet and press it evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Evenly sprinkle the browned sausage over the dough. Follow by spreading the cheese over the sausage layer.
- Mix the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, black pepper, sea salt, dried minced garlic, and dried minced onion until well combined.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the sausage and cheese layers in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, cut the casserole into 12 squares, and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Sausage: Ensure the sausage is browned but not overcooked to prevent it from becoming dry.
- Uneven Dough Layer: Make sure the crescent roll dough is evenly spread in the baking dish to avoid thin, overcooked spots.
- Skipping the Drain: Always drain the excess oil from the sausage to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Undermixing the Eggs: Whisk the eggs thoroughly to ensure a smooth and uniform mixture.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presenting your Breakfast Sausage Casserole can make a big difference in its appeal. Here are some tips to make your dish look as good as it tastes:
How to Serve Breakfast Sausage Casserole
- Cut Neatly: Use a sharp knife to cut the casserole into even squares for a tidy presentation.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
- Serve Hot: This casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven.
Presentation Ideas for Breakfast Sausage Casserole
- Platter Display: Arrange the casserole squares on a large platter for a family-style serving.
- Individual Plates: Serve each square on individual plates with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a complete meal.
- Buffet Style: If serving a crowd, keep the casserole warm in the oven until ready to serve and let guests help themselves.
Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe Tips
For the best results, consider these additional tips:
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Simply bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- Double the Recipe: Feeding a larger crowd? Double the recipe and use two baking dishes.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick or knife to check the center of the casserole. It should come out clean when the casserole is done.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, including turkey, chicken, or vegetarian sausage.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
This Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. With its savory layers of sausage, cheese, and eggs atop a buttery crescent roll crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying a cozy morning at home, this casserole is a winner. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy the delightful start to your day that this dish provides!
PrintBreakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe
Indulge in a hearty breakfast with this scrumptious sausage casserole recipe. Made with breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, and a crescent roll dough sheet, this dish is perfect for starting your day off right. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, it's a crowd-pleaser for any morning gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon dried minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried minced onion
- 1 refrigerated crescent roll dough sheet
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Unroll the crescent roll dough sheet and spread it in the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the dough.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, black pepper, sea salt, minced garlic, and minced onion.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and dough in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, you can mix in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the sausage.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of casserole)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
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