Why Choose a 4-Ingredient Sausage Breakfast Casserole?
Sometimes, the best recipes are the simplest. This breakfast casserole is perfect when you need something quick, easy, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, meal prepping for the week, or just making a hearty breakfast for your family, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s:
- Quick to prepare (takes only a few minutes to assemble).
- Budget-friendly (requires just four basic ingredients).
- Delicious and filling (packed with protein and flavor).
Let’s break down the recipe step-by-step so you can make this casserole without any hassle.
The 4 Ingredients You’ll Need.
- Sausage:
Use breakfast sausage as the main protein. You can choose regular, spicy, or even flavored varieties (like maple or sage) based on your taste. Ground sausage works best, but sausage links or patties can be crumbled and used too. - Eggs:
Eggs form the base of the casserole, giving it structure and binding everything together. They’re also loaded with protein and make the dish hearty. - Shredded Cheese:
Cheese adds creaminess and richness. Cheddar is a popular choice because it melts well and has a bold flavor, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses if you prefer. - Bread or Hash Browns:
This ingredient acts as the “starch” to balance the casserole. Use cubed bread (day-old works great), or swap it for frozen hash browns if you want a potato-based dish.
How to Make It.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Serves: 6–8
Step 1: Preheat the Oven.
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (around 9×13 inches) with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread or Hash Browns.
- If using bread: Cut it into small cubes and spread evenly in the greased baking dish.
- If using hash browns: Spread a layer of frozen hash browns evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Step 4: Mix the Eggs.
In a large bowl, crack 6–8 eggs (depending on how many servings you want) and whisk them until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. If you like, you can mix in a splash of milk or cream to make the eggs extra fluffy, but it’s optional.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread or hash browns.
- Pour the whisked eggs over the top, making sure they soak into the bread or hash browns.
- Scatter the shredded cheese evenly over the entire dish. Use about 1 to 2 cups of cheese, depending on how cheesy you like it.
Step 6: Bake.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30–40 minutes. It’s ready when the eggs are set (no longer jiggly in the center) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve.
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to cut. Serve as-is, or pair it with fresh fruit, toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations and Add-Ons.
While the recipe only needs 4 ingredients, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Add Veggies:
Toss in diced bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition. Sauté them with the sausage for added flavor. - Use a Different Protein:
Replace sausage with bacon, ham, or a plant-based sausage for a new twist. - Make It Spicy:
Add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or use spicy sausage for a kick. - Change the Cheese:
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for spice, Swiss for nuttiness, or a blend for more flavor. - Try a Low-Carb Version:
Skip the bread or hash browns and load the casserole with extra sausage and veggies to keep it low-carb.
Tips for Success.
- Use Day-Old Bread: If you’re using bread, slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture better.
- Cook the Sausage Well: Make sure the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to avoid grease pooling in the dish.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the eggs are cooked through.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just bake it fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe.
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of savory sausage flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With only four ingredients, you don’t have to spend a lot of time shopping or cooking, and you’ll still get a hearty, homemade dish everyone will enjoy.
Try it tonight and see why this easy breakfast casserole has become a go-to favorite for so many families. It’s comfort food at its best—simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious!
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