This Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory sausage, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese with hearty cubes of bread. It’s everything you want in a filling and satisfying breakfast, all baked into one dish!
Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or looking for an easy weekday breakfast, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese creates a rich and indulgent meal that is sure to keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning. It’s the perfect dish to make ahead for busy mornings or special occasions.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb (450g) breakfast sausage
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1/2 lb (225g) bacon, chopped
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6 large eggs
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1 cup milk
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 medium onion, chopped
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1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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6 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old)
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2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage and bacon until browned and crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove excess fat and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and bell peppers (if using), and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Remove from heat.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Add the cooked sausage, bacon, onions, bell peppers, and cubed bread into the egg mixture and stir until everything is combined.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
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Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
The Ultimate Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Start to Your Day
The Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to start your day off right. Packed with savory sausage, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and eggs, this casserole is a one-pan meal that brings together all the breakfast essentials in a delicious and satisfying way. Whether you’re hosting a family breakfast, preparing brunch for friends, or just looking for a hearty meal to fuel your morning, this casserole will become a go-to in your cooking rotation.
The Origins of the Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast casseroles have been a staple in many households for generations. The concept of combining various breakfast ingredients, like eggs, meat, vegetables, and cheese, into a single dish that can be easily prepared and baked has its roots in American home cooking. The idea of casseroles as a meal was popularized in the mid-20th century when convenience and simplicity in cooking became key priorities for busy families. Over time, these dishes evolved to feature regional flavors and ingredients, with the Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole being a particularly popular variation. The rich combination of sausage and bacon creates a flavorful base, while eggs and cheese tie everything together into a satisfying and filling meal.
Why This Casserole is Perfect for Any Occasion
What makes the Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole so versatile is its ability to cater to different occasions. It’s not just a breakfast item; it can be served as brunch, lunch, or even a casual dinner. The casserole is incredibly filling and can feed a crowd, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or special holiday breakfasts. The best part? It can be made in advance, saving you time in the morning, allowing you to enjoy the day with family and friends without being tied to the stove.
For those hosting a brunch, this casserole is a great way to incorporate all the savory flavors people crave, without requiring hours of preparation. You can easily scale the recipe up or down depending on the number of people you’re serving. Additionally, this casserole pairs well with fresh fruit, coffee, or a light salad, making it a complete meal that satisfies a range of tastes.
A Dish That’s Easy to Customize
While this casserole is delicious as-is, it also lends itself well to customization. You can play around with different types of cheese, swap out the sausage for chorizo or turkey sausage, or even add in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. If you’re looking to make a lighter version, you can substitute lower-fat milk and cheese or use leaner cuts of bacon. This flexibility allows you to create a breakfast casserole that fits your personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
You can also adjust the level of seasoning in the casserole, making it as mild or as bold as you prefer. For example, if you enjoy a little heat, you can add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix. The casserole is forgiving and easy to tweak, making it a great base for endless variations.
How to Serve the Sausage and Bacon Breakfast Casserole
Once your casserole is baked to golden perfection, it’s time to serve! The beauty of this dish is that it is a complete meal all on its own. However, there are plenty of side dishes that complement its hearty flavors. Fresh fruit salad, crispy hash browns, or even a side of pancakes can balance the richness of the casserole. If you’re serving it for brunch, you can add a refreshing beverage like freshly squeezed juice or mimosas for a more festive touch.
For those who enjoy a little extra kick, serve the casserole with hot sauce, salsa, or sour cream on the side. These condiments can add a fresh burst of flavor and make each bite even more enjoyable. Additionally, a garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can elevate the dish’s presentation and add a pop of color.
The Healthier Side of This Casserole
While the Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is undeniably delicious, it’s also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. The casserole contains plenty of protein from the sausage, bacon, and eggs, making it a great option for those looking to start their day with a filling and energizing meal. However, for those who are watching their calorie intake, there are several ways to make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
You can opt for leaner cuts of bacon or turkey sausage, which will reduce the overall fat content. Another easy substitution is to use low-fat or fat-free dairy products. You can also incorporate vegetables into the casserole to boost its fiber content, such as adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. These vegetables not only add nutritional value but also enhance the flavor of the casserole.
Tips for Making the Best Sausage and Bacon Breakfast Casserole
To ensure your breakfast casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Day-Old Bread: The bread in the casserole soaks up the egg mixture, creating a custard-like texture. Using day-old bread or slightly stale bread works best, as it holds up better in the casserole without becoming too soggy.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the sausage and bacon, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This ensures even cooking and helps the meat become crispy, adding a nice texture to the casserole.
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Let It Rest Before Serving: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
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Make Ahead for Convenience: If you’re short on time in the morning, you can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it for 40 minutes and you’ll have a hot, comforting breakfast ready to go.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Sausage and Bacon Breakfast Casserole
The Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish that combines convenience, flavor, and heartiness. It’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re feeding a large group or just a small family. With its rich combination of savory sausage, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s no wonder that this casserole has become a breakfast favorite.
What sets this casserole apart is its versatility—it can easily be customized to fit dietary preferences or to incorporate whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a traditional breakfast or want to add a creative twist, this casserole will not disappoint. So, next time you’re planning breakfast, give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting, filling meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
This dish is not just for breakfast; it’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. From casual mornings to festive brunches, the Sausage and Bacon Country Breakfast Casserole is a dish that brings people together and satisfies the appetite. Try it today and discover why it’s a breakfast classic!