If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting breakfast that practically makes itself while you sleep, this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Loaded with savory sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and fresh veggies, all soaked in a rich egg and milk mixture, it transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying morning meal. It’s the perfect solution for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend brunches, delivering fantastic flavor with minimal morning effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe are straightforward but crucial to achieving that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays its part in making the dish both satisfying and visually inviting.
- 6 large eggs: These provide the creamy, custardy base that holds the casserole together beautifully.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds richness and helps soak the bread to create a tender bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors throughout the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the other tastes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder: A subtle, tangy depth that elevates the savory notes.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully for gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage (crumbled): Brings a smoky, meaty heartiness essential for a breakfast casserole.
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper: Adds a pop of vibrant color and a mild sweet crunch.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Provides savory aromatics that blend harmoniously with the sausage.
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (French or sourdough preferred): The foundation that soaks up all the delicious custard and flavors.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures easy release and keeps the casserole from sticking.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional for garnish): Fresh herbs brighten the final presentation and add a subtle freshness.
How to Make Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This simple step makes sure your casserole comes out cleanly and keeps those crispy edges intact for that perfect texture contrast.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Base
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard powder until smooth and well combined. This custard mixture is the magic that binds the casserole and infuses every bite with creamy richness.
Step 3: Add the Flavorful Fillings
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked crumbled sausage, diced bell pepper, and chopped onion. Make sure everything is mixed evenly so that every forkful contains a bit of that cheesy, savory goodness paired with vibrant veggies.
Step 4: Incorporate the Bread
Gently fold in the cubed day-old bread, tossing carefully to coat all the pieces with the egg mixture. Using day-old bread here is key because it soaks up the custard without turning to mush, resulting in that perfect soft yet structured texture.
Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6 hours. This soaking time allows all the flavors to blend beautifully while the bread absorbs the custard fully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
When morning arrives, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set and the top is wonderfully golden brown. Let it cool a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley adds a fresh, colorful finishing touch that lightens the dish visually and adds a subtle burst of herbaceous flavor. Don’t skip this simple step—it really elevates the presentation!
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon strips, or a light mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. These sides balance the richness and add contrast to your breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve slices of the casserole on individual plates alongside a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce. You can even line a platter with baby arugula and arrange casserole squares on top for a vibrant brunch centerpiece that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It stays flavorful and reheats well for quick breakfasts later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked casserole by cutting it into portions and wrapping each piece individually in foil or plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This makes for a convenient, ready-to-go breakfast that keeps well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, though oven reheating better preserves the texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread in this casserole?
Absolutely! While French or sourdough bread gives great texture and flavor, you can experiment with whole wheat, rye, or even brioche for a slightly sweeter, richer profile. Just make sure it’s day-old or lightly toasted to soak up the custard properly.
What if I don’t eat pork? Can I substitute the sausage?
Definitely! You can swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage, chopped ham, or even cooked bacon. Vegetarians can substitute with plant-based sausage or add extra veggies like mushrooms and spinach for a delicious twist.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
While overnight chilling is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can bake the casserole immediately by allowing the bread to soak in the custard for about 20 minutes before baking. The flavors will be good, just a bit less melded.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the whole milk for a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk and use a non-dairy cheddar cheese. The texture might vary slightly, but the casserole will still be delicious!
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is lightly golden brown. You can insert a knife in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my top go-to dishes for both busy mornings and relaxed weekend brunches. The flavors meld overnight, making mornings effortless and delightful. I invite you to try it out—you’ll love waking up to such a warm, cheesy, and comforting start to your day.
Print
Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a perfect make-ahead dish combining eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread, soaked overnight and baked to golden perfection. Ideal for busy mornings or feeding a crowd, this hearty casserole features savory flavors and customizable ingredients, making breakfast both simple and delicious.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or sourdough)
Other
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard powder until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Mix-Ins: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, diced bell pepper, and chopped onion to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Combine with Bread: Add the cubed day-old bread into the egg mixture and gently toss until all bread cubes are coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow flavors to meld and bread to soak.
- Preheat Oven: In the morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute sausage with bacon or chopped ham for different flavors.
- Add spinach or mushrooms to include extra vegetables and nutrition.
- If short on time, bake immediately after mixing but allow bread to soak for 20 minutes before baking.
