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Egg breakfast casserole

Name: Egg breakfast casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 large eggs at room temperature, lightly beaten until smooth and consistent; 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled and fully cooked until golden brown; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided for layering and topping; 2 cups whole milk, brought to room temperature for even mixing; 6 slices hearty white bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced for even distribution; 1 red bell pepper, diced into small, uniform pieces; 2 cloves garlic, minced until paste-like; 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves for aromatic flavor; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika for garnish and color

4.8/5

20 reviews

65min Total Time

8 people Servings

Easy Difficulty

Moderate Cost

425 kcal Calories

When one breakfast casserole isn\’t dramatic enough for your morning needs

Video

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Ingredients

12 large eggs at room temperature, lightly beaten until smooth and consistent
1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled and fully cooked until golden brown
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided for layering and topping
2 cups whole milk, brought to room temperature for even mixing
6 slices hearty white bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced for even distribution
1 red bell pepper, diced into small, uniform pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced until paste-like
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves for aromatic flavor
1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika for garnish and color

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center for optimal heat distribution

Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until well-browned and crumbly, about 8-10 minutes

Remove the cooked sausage with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease

In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-6 minutes

Add minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for an additional minute until fragrant

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dried thyme until well combined

Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the sausage, vegetables, and cheese

Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, ending with cheese on top

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, pressing down gently to ensure all ingredients are moistened

Sprinkle paprika over the top for color and added flavor

Bake for 45 minutes or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top

Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving to ensure clean, even portions

Kitchen Tools

9x13 inch baking dish for even cooking and proper portioning
Large skillet for cooking sausage and vegetables
Whisk for thoroughly combining egg mixture
Sharp knife for uniform vegetable chopping
Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredients

Chef's Tips

Prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate for an easy morning breakfast

Use day-old bread for better texture and absorption of the egg mixture

Let all refrigerated ingredients come to room temperature for even cooking

Grate your own cheese for better melting properties and flavor

Troubleshooting

If the top browns too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking

If the center isn't setting, lower the temperature and extend cooking time

If the casserole seems dry, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk to the mixture

If the bottom is soggy, try using less liquid or pre-toasting the bread

Recipe Variations

Mexican style with chorizo, jalapeños, and Mexican cheese blend

Italian version using Italian sausage, mozzarella, and herbs

Vegetarian option replacing meat with mushrooms and additional vegetables

Greek-inspired with feta, spinach, and oregano

Healthy Alternatives

Substitute whole milk with unsweetened almond milk to reduce calories and fat

Use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner protein option

Replace white bread with whole grain bread for added fiber and nutrients

Increase the vegetable content by adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast spread

Offer hot sauce or salsa on the side for those who enjoy extra heat

Pair with a light arugula salad for brunch presentations

Include a variety of fresh berries and yogurt on the side for added nutrition

Nutrition Facts

425

Calories

28g

Protein

18g

Carbs

22g

Fat

Fiber

Sugar

780mg

Sodium

320mg

Cholesterol

Dietary Info

High protein breakfast option

Can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free bread

Keto-friendly when omitting bread and using heavy cream instead of milk

Low-carb adaptable by reducing bread content

Garnish Ideas

Fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top

Diced fresh tomatoes for color and freshness

Additional shredded cheese melted on top

Crispy bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months

Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Reheat covered portions in a 325°F oven until warmed through

Leftover Ideas

Create breakfast sandwiches with leftover slices

Cube leftovers and reheat with fresh eggs for a breakfast scramble

Use in breakfast burritos with fresh salsa and avocado

Top with hollandaise sauce for a unique eggs benedict variation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the eggs until they become rubbery instead of tender

Not properly greasing the baking dish, leading to difficult serving

Using wet or soggy bread that makes the casserole mushy

Skipping the resting period, which results in messy portions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking

How do I know when it's fully cooked?

The casserole should be set in the middle and golden brown on top

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months when properly wrapped

What's the best bread to use?

Day-old French bread or hearty white bread works best for texture

Reviews

Sarah M.

Feb 25, 2026

Perfect breakfast casserole! Made it for Christmas morning and the family raved about it.

Michael P.

Feb 26, 2026

Great recipe but needed a bit more seasoning for my taste.

Jennifer B.

Mar 18, 2026

This has become our Sunday morning tradition. Absolutely delicious!

Robert K.

Mar 2, 2026

Solid breakfast option that feeds the whole family.

Linda T.

Feb 21, 2026

Love how easy it is to prepare the night before.