Description

A kid-friendly, make-ahead savory breakfast casserole that combines Italian sausage, white bread, and cheddar cheese. It requires minimal morning effort and allows children to help with the prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb mild Italian sausage
8 slices white bread (cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
6 large eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
2 tbsp butter (for greasing dish)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
Optional: diced bell peppers or spinach

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles until browned. Drain excess grease and let cool slightly.
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Cube the white bread and spread the cubes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until uniform. Pour over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all bread is submerged.
Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, pressing it down slightly.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the chilled casserole sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If browning too fast, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares to allow it to set.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture to avoid sogginess. Ensure sausage is well-drained to prevent an oily casserole. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to help it set. For leftovers, add a splash of milk when microwaving to keep it moist.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 280
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 650
Fat: 15
Saturated Fat: 7
Carbohydrates: 22
Fiber: 1
Protein: 14

Keywords: breakfast casserole, kid-friendly recipes, make-ahead breakfast, sausage casserole, cheesy breakfast, easy morning meal, family breakfast