Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Wake up to the delightful aroma of a hearty breakfast casserole with sausage that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort. This Breakfast Casserole with Sausage is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings family and friends together. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this dish is packed with protein, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese that will keep everyone satisfied and energized for the day ahead.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
There are countless reasons to make this Breakfast Casserole with Sausage a regular feature on your meal plan. Firstly, it’s an incredibly versatile dish. You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s also an excellent make-ahead option; you can assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven in the morning. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, meaning there’s less cleanup for you to worry about after the meal. With the savory taste of turkey sausage combined with the freshness of spinach and the richness of cheese, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What Goes Into Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Creating this delicious Breakfast Casserole with Sausage requires a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 ounces turkey breakfast sausage, I used Jennie-O for its great flavor.
- 15-ounce package fresh baby spinach, packed with nutrients and color.
- 12 large eggs, the base for our fluffy casserole.
- 1 ½ cups whole or reduced fat milk, for creaminess and richness.
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese, melty goodness throughout.
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, for an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to enhance all the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste, for a little kick.
- ¾ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped for a burst of sweetness.
Must-Have Equipment
Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- Large mixing bowl, for whisking together the eggs and milk.
- 9×13-inch baking dish, the perfect size for baking the casserole.
- Skillet, to cook the turkey sausage and wilt the spinach.
- Whisk, for combining the egg mixture smoothly.
- Spatula, to fold in the ingredients and serve the casserole.
Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Made Easy
Now that you have your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step process to make this delightful Breakfast Casserole with Sausage.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the turkey breakfast sausage. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 12 large eggs and pour in 1 ½ cups of milk. Add the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and frothy.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
To the egg mixture, add the cooked sausage and spinach, along with the sun-dried tomatoes, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated parmesan cheese. Gently fold everything together until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and lightly golden on top. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling period helps the casserole firm up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Variations for Dietary Needs
This Breakfast Casserole with Sausage can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the turkey sausage and add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the number of eggs and replace some of the milk with heavy cream for a denser casserole.
Avoid These Traps
While making this Breakfast Casserole with Sausage is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Overcooking the Sausage: Make sure not to overcook the turkey sausage; it should be browned but not dry.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Stick to the specified amount of milk; too much can make the casserole soggy.
- Not Cooling Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season well with salt and pepper; it enhances the overall flavor.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you have leftovers or want to make this casserole ahead of time, here’s how to handle it:
To cool, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Rewarming: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and warm for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reader Questions
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the evening prior, cover it, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or whatever you have on hand. Cheddar, feta, or a blend can all work beautifully in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this casserole spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking. You can also use spicy sausage for an extra kick.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This Breakfast Casserole with Sausage pairs well with fresh fruit, a light salad, or some crispy breakfast potatoes for a complete meal.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the tools and knowledge you need, it’s time to get cooking! This Breakfast Casserole with Sausage is sure to become a family favorite, bringing everyone together around the table for a delicious start to the day. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Happy cooking!
Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the turkey breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined and frothy.
- Add the cooked sausage, wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese to the egg mixture. Gently fold until evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set in the center and golden on top. Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make it ahead by assembling the casserole the night before and baking in the morning.
- Feel free to substitute different types of cheese based on your preference.
- For added spice, include diced jalapeños or use spicy sausage.
