Description
A gentle, comforting breakfast casserole that comes together in minutes the night before. Featuring soft bread, rich eggs, savory sausage, and sharp cheddar, this dish offers a stress-free morning with a custardy, golden finish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf French bread or baguette (approx. 12 inches / 30 cm), torn into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or hot), cooked and crumbled
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional, depending on sausage sodium content)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Tear the bread into rough, bite-sized pieces and toss them into a 9×13 baking dish, covering the bottom evenly without pressing down.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned and crumbled (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if desired, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor. Scatter the sausage evenly over the bread.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, black pepper, and salt vigorously until combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the bread and sausage. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to ensure every piece is soaked.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 30 minutes if in a rush).
- Remove from the fridge and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is puffed and golden, and the center is set but still has a slight jiggle. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the custard to set.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread to prevent mushiness. Sharp cheddar provides better flavor and melt than mild cheese. The overnight rest is crucial for the bread to absorb the custard properly. For a vegetarian option, omit sausage and add roasted red peppers or caramelized onions. For gluten-free, use a sturdy gluten-free loaf.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
Keywords: breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, cheesy sausage casserole, comfort food, easy breakfast, overnight oats alternative, gentle self-care