The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for busy mornings. With its creamy texture and generous layers of flavors, this casserole brings comfort and satisfaction to the breakfast table. It’s as simple as assembling the ingredients the night before, so you can wake up to a warm, delicious meal. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekends, this recipe is all about ease and deliciousness.
Why You Will Love This Casserole
This breakfast casserole is a game-changer for busy families. It requires minimal prep time and features everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s flexible and forgiving, making it perfect for beginners. Plus, everyone will love the rich flavors coming together in one cozy dish.
How to Make This Casserole
Making this casserole is straightforward. You’ll cook the sausage, layer the ingredients, and pour a creamy egg mixture on top. After refrigerating it overnight, all that’s left is baking in the morning. It’s as simple as that!
What You Need
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 package frozen hash browns (about 30 oz)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Step-by-Step
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish and layer half of the hash browns, half the sausage, and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F in the morning and bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and fully set.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
How to Serve This Casserole
This casserole is delightful on its own but can be paired perfectly with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or a light salad for a balanced meal. It’s a wonderful choice for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Sprinkle a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick if your family enjoys a bit of spice!
How to Store This Casserole
To keep leftovers fresh, store any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in freezer-safe bags. This way, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to reheat whenever you need it!
Recipe Tips
- Prep Ahead: Make it the night before for a hassle-free morning.
- Don’t Skip The Cooling: Allow the sausage to cool before mixing; this prevents the eggs from scrambling.
- Layer Smart: For a creamier texture, make sure to cover all ingredients with the egg mixture.
- Cheese Varieties: Mix up the cheese! Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Don’t Overbake: Check for doneness to avoid a dry casserole; it should be golden and set in the middle.
Variations & Swaps
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the breakfast sausage with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Different Proteins: Swap the sausage with cooked bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add herbs like thyme or parsley to the egg mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it the night before is the best way to enjoy it fresh in the morning. Just assemble everything, cover, and chill in the refrigerator overnight.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just cut it into portions, wrap tightly, and store in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for convenience.
Can I swap ingredients?
Absolutely! You can switch the sausage for any proteins you like or use different types of cheese. Feel free to get creative with additions, like vegetables or spices that suit your family’s taste!
What should I serve with this casserole?
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Pair it with fresh fruit, a green salad, or even a side of crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 large eggs
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions For topping
Main Components
- 30 oz frozen hash browns Approximately one package
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Or other cheese types as desired
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Grease a 9×13 baking dish; layer half of the hash browns, half the cooked sausage, and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining hash browns, sausage, and cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the layered ingredients.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F in the morning and bake the casserole, covered, for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and fully set.
- Top with chopped green onions and serve warm.
