What could be better than waking up to the enticing aroma of a warm casserole fresh from the oven? The Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have you dreaming of cozy mornings spent with loved ones. Imagine fluffy eggs enveloping savory sausage and crispy bread—each bite provides comfort and satisfaction.
This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or leisurely Sunday brunches when you want something hearty yet effortless. With just a few simple steps, you can create a meal that is both filling and delicious. Anticipate an explosion of flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a steaming cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Convenient Meal Prep: This casserole allows for easy preparation ahead of time. You can assemble it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free meal that’s ready to serve.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the sausage and eggs, this dish will keep you satisfied throughout your busy day. It’s ideal for families who need something substantial to fuel their mornings.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak this recipe according to your taste preferences. You can swap in different types of sausages or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a casual get-together, this casserole serves multiple people easily. Its comforting taste appeals to both young and old, making it a crowd pleaser at any occasion.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Breakfast Sausage: Choose your favorite type—pork or turkey works well—and ensure it’s crumbled into small pieces for even cooking.
- Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential as they provide structure and richness to the casserole.
- Bread: Use stale bread like French or sourdough; it absorbs the egg mixture better than fresh bread.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; however, you can opt for low-fat milk if desired.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor; feel free to substitute with another cheese like mozzarella if preferred.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease before proceeding.
Prepare Bread Base: Tear the stale bread into bite-sized pieces and spread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
Mix Eggs and Milk: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Add Ingredients Together: Layer the cooked sausage over the bread pieces, then pour the egg mixture on top. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly across the casserole.
Bake Until Set: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes until the eggs are set and golden brown on top. Serve hot!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Use Stale Bread: Ensure your bread is slightly stale before using it in this recipe; fresh bread may become too soggy when mixed with egg custard.
Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Remember that different brands of sausage vary in saltiness. Taste before adding too much extra seasoning as it might become overwhelming.
Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition: If you’re looking to boost nutritional value, consider adding veggies like spinach or onions into your mix—they pair well with sausage!
Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave before serving again.
Mistakes to avoid
Not Prepping Ingredients in Advance
Failing to prep your ingredients can lead to chaos when making the Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Chop your vegetables and measure out spices beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process. This not only saves time but also helps prevent any last-minute issues that can arise during assembly.
Neglecting to Brown the Sausage
Skipping the step of browning the sausage might seem harmless, but it can leave your casserole lacking flavor. Properly browning the sausage adds depth and richness, enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Take the time to cook it until it’s golden brown for optimal results.
Using Stale Bread
Using stale bread in your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole will result in an unappetizing texture. Fresh bread absorbs the egg mixture better and gives you a delightful contrast between soft and crispy textures. Choose day-old bread or freshly baked for the best outcome.
Overbaking the Casserole
Overbaking can dry out your casserole, making it less enjoyable. Keep an eye on your dish as it cooks, and aim for a golden top while ensuring the inside is set but still moist. A cooking time of around 30-35 minutes at 350°F should suffice, but check for doneness before removing it from the oven.
Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments
Each ingredient in your casserole contributes to its flavor profile, so don’t neglect seasoning adjustments. Depending on your sausage or cheese choices, you may need more or less salt and pepper. Taste as you go, ensuring a balanced flavor that enhances every bite of your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit. A side of seasonal berries or sliced bananas adds a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole. You could also serve it alongside a light green salad, which provides a refreshing crunch and balances the richness. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes for added texture and flavor. To elevate the breakfast experience, offer a selection of beverages such as freshly brewed coffee or a chilled fruit juice.
Toast and Jam
To complement your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole, serve slices of warm, crusty bread with various jams or marmalades. The sweetness of the jam will enhance the dish’s savory elements, creating an enjoyable balance on your palate. This simple addition makes for an inviting breakfast spread that guests will love. Choose different flavors like strawberry, raspberry, or orange to cater to different tastes. The combination of warm toast and delicious toppings makes this meal even more satisfying.
Yogurt Parfait
A yogurt parfait is an excellent accompaniment to your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Layer creamy Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruits like blueberries or strawberries. This dish offers a refreshing contrast and adds nutritional value to your breakfast table. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning. The rich flavors from the casserole pair perfectly with the tangy yogurt and crunchy granola.
Smoothie Bowl
For a nutritious side option, consider preparing a smoothie bowl. Blend your favorite fruits with spinach or kale for added health benefits. Top it with seeds, nuts, and coconut flakes for texture and flavor variety. Serving this alongside your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole provides not only aesthetic appeal but also enhances the overall meal experience by adding freshness and color.
FAQs
What ingredients are in Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole?
The Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole typically includes ingredients such as breakfast sausage, eggs, milk, cheese, bread cubes, and seasonings. You can customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish is hearty and filling, making it ideal for breakfast gatherings or family brunches.
Can I make the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole ahead of time! Assemble all ingredients in advance and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it straight from the fridge until golden brown and cooked through. This method saves time in the morning while ensuring you have a delicious breakfast ready to go.
How do I store leftovers from the casserole?
To store leftovers from your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage; just make sure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
What can I substitute for sausage in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives to sausage in your Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole, consider using turkey sausage or plant-based sausage options for a healthier twist. Ground beef or diced ham could also work well as substitutes while maintaining that savory flavor profile we love about casseroles.
Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Old English Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a hearty breakfast dish that brings together savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and crusty bread for a satisfying morning meal. Perfect for family gatherings or leisurely brunches, this casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort. Serve it warm alongside fresh fruit or coffee for a complete breakfast experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 8 large eggs
- 4 cups stale French or sourdough bread, torn into pieces
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the crumbled sausage until cooked through. Drain excess grease.
- Spread torn bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk; season with salt and pepper.
- Layer the cooked sausage over the bread and pour the egg mixture on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: English
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: Use stale bread for better absorption of the egg mixture. Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
