Weekends are for lazy mornings and delicious breakfasts, and this breakfast casserole with sausage gravy is the perfect way to start your day. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the comforting flavors of a classic breakfast casserole with the rich indulgence of homemade sausage gravy. It’s easy enough for a busy weekday morning, yet impressive enough for a weekend brunch with friends and family. Get ready to savor every bite of this hearty and flavorful dish! It's one of those healthy meals that feels like a treat.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, mild or spicy (browned and crumbled)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
For the Sausage Gravy:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup browned and crumbled breakfast sausage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started with the casserole:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
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In a large bowl, combine the browned and crumbled sausage, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy. This step adds extra fluffiness to your casserole.
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Add the bread cubes to the sausage mixture, gently tossing to coat the bread evenly. Make sure not to over-mix, as this could make the bread soggy.
Assemble and bake:
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Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage mixture, stirring gently to combine. It's important to get the eggs distributed throughout the casserole for even cooking.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and heated through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the sausage gravy:
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While the casserole is baking, prepare the sausage gravy. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
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Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux. This step thickens the gravy.
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Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk until the gravy thickens.
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Stir in the browned and crumbled sausage, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Once the casserole is baked, pour the sausage gravy over the top and serve immediately. This combination of textures and flavors is truly divine!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick: Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild breakfast sausage.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the casserole for added nutrients.
- Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. This is a great option for a make-ahead breakfast.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a hearty and delicious breakfast, but the nutritional information can vary slightly depending on the ingredients used. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values using your specific ingredients. However, expect a serving to be relatively high in calories, fat, and protein due to the sausage and cheese.
This breakfast casserole with sausage gravy is a fantastic recipe for any occasion. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!