Sausage and Egg Casserole is a warm, hearty dish that’s packed with comforting flavors like breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and often a melty mix of cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big morning hug, with its rich textures and savory goodness all baked into one dish.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy to prepare ahead of time for busy mornings or weekend brunches. One of my favorite things about it is how flexible it is — you can toss in veggies, switch up the cheese, or add your favorite herbs to make it your own. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for a quick meal later.
My best tip is to let it rest a few minutes after baking so the casserole sets up nicely and slices easily. Served with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp green salad, it feels like a special yet simple meal that everyone enjoys. For me, this casserole always brings back memories of cozy family breakfasts and relaxed weekends where good food and good company go hand in hand.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds great flavor and protein. If you prefer, turkey or chicken sausage works well for a leaner option. Vegetarian sausage can be used too.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs create that fluffy, custardy base. Whole milk gives creaminess, but you can use any milk — even plant-based milk — if you want a dairy-free version.
Hash Brown Potatoes: Thawed frozen hash browns are easy and give a nice texture. You can swap these with diced cooked potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic here. Sharp cheddar gives more flavor, but mild is great if you want it less intense. Try Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want a meltier cheese.
Cottage or Cream Cheese: Optional, but I like adding it for extra creaminess. Feel free to leave it out if you want a lighter casserole.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Bakes Up Perfectly Firm and Not Watery?
Getting the texture right can be tricky! Here’s what helps:
- Cook the sausage well and drain any excess grease — too much fat can make the casserole soggy.
- Thaw and drain frozen hash browns fully, or use leftover cooked potatoes — avoiding extra moisture is key.
- Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly to create a smooth base that sets nicely during baking.
- After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes slicing easier.
These steps help you achieve a casserole that holds together well, with a soft but structured texture that’s delicious in every bite!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I like this size because it’s perfect for the ingredients and easy to serve.
- Skillet – for cooking the sausage and breaking it apart until browned and cooked through.
- Whisk – to quickly mix eggs, milk, and seasonings for a smooth base.
- Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients before pouring into the dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts for milk, cheese, and seasonings.
- Oven – for baking until golden and set.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Mix in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the egg mixture for some heat.
- Protein Variations: Use cooked bacon, ham, or turkey sausage instead of breakfast sausage for variety.
Sausage and Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed (or diced cooked potatoes)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese or cream cheese (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Seasonings and Extras:
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble. Then you’ll bake it for 35-40 minutes. After baking, let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set, for a total time of around 55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Sausage:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart while cooking. Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and combined.
3. Combine All Ingredients:
Add the thawed hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and cottage or cream cheese if using, into the egg mixture. Stir everything gently to mix evenly.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to firm up. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Serve warm, with fresh fruit or toast if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Properly cooked sausage ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge—add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Yes! Toss in cooked veggies like spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to sauté or drain them well beforehand to avoid adding excess moisture.