Description
Wake up to a comforting and flavorful breakfast with this Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Layers of crusty bread, savory sausage, and melted cheese come together with fresh herbs for a dish that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or a cozy morning treat. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, this casserole will delight your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 cups cubed crusty bread (day-old or slightly stale preferred)
- 1 lb Smithfield fresh ground breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups 2% milk
- 1 tbsp prepared pesto
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/2 cup chopped green onion
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer Bread: Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
- Cook Sausage: Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat and distribute sausage over the bread.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: Whisk eggs, milk, pesto, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour evenly over the bread and sausage.
- Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and green onions over the casserole. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake or Refrigerate:
- To bake immediately: Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- To refrigerate overnight: Cover and refrigerate. Bake as directed the next day.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For added flavor, include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
- If refrigerating, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired