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Crispy Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Crispy Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole - featured image
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A hearty, make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring crispy sausage, savory onions, and a rich egg custard soaked into day-old bread, topped with a blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups day-old sourdough or ciabatta bread, cubed
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 10 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Butter or cooking spray for greasing dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cut day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly in the dish, ensuring air gaps.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook Italian sausage, breaking it up, until browned and crispy (5-7 minutes). Add diced onion during the last 2 minutes to soften. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and onion mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper vigorously for 30 seconds until frothy.
  5. Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
  7. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set (not jiggly). Check at 35 minutes to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent a soggy texture; if using fresh bread, toast it lightly first. For best melting results, shred cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded. The casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight; add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from cold. Ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety. Letting it rest for 10 minutes is crucial for clean slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, meal prep, sausage breakfast, cheesy casserole, make ahead breakfast, brunch ideas, comfort food

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/crispy-cheesy-sausage-breakfast-casserole-easy-meal-prep/