A breakfast casserole for a crowd is just the thing for a weekend breakfast or hosting company. Make this the night before and pop in the oven in the morning!
I am often asked what to cook when hosting a large crowd. In a lot of cases, breakfast is overlooked when guests descend on your home. Skip the bagel bar and whip up this make-ahead Breakfast Casserole.
The Ultimate Holiday Hosting Guide
Complete guide including a timeline, menu, recipes, shopping list, checklist and more!
Can I be real for a moment? I don’t know how to cook for less than 8-10 people. When a small family gathering is no less than 15 people, it becomes difficult to make anything for less than 10 people.
Most of my recipes on this site will feed at least six. Having come from a large family and marrying into an equally large one, this recipe has really come in handy over the years.
The great thing about this Breakfast Casserole is that it can feed a crowd! You might scoff at the 9×13 pan, certain you will need to double the recipe, but trust me, one pan will go a looonnngg way.
My mother has made this recipe for several years – mostly during Christmastime. It pairs perfectly with a fresh Ambrosia Salad, which are the makings of a beautiful Christmas Brunch. It was passed down to me when I was married and in need of something to feed the masses. We make this during the holidays, hosting and vacations with family and friends.
Breakfast Casserole with Sausage, Egg and Cheese
These ingredients are simple and probably pantry staples in most homes.
Ingredients:
- Loaf of bread: You can use wheat, white or whatever your taste preferences are. Day old bread works best in absorbing the egg and milk mixture.
- 8 eggs
- 1 pound of sausage: We opt for mild Italian sausage because neither Nikolai or I like breakfast sausage. This is easily replaced with Chorizo for an extra kick or any sausage preference.
- Cheese: We use a mix of Cheddar and Monterrey Jack.
- Milk
- Time: Don’t be alarmed. Make this ahead the night before and chill until the next morning so the bread can absorb the egg and milk.
You can also add in mushrooms, peppers, onions, bacon, ham… whatever might strike your fancy for breakfast!
How do I reheat a casserole in the oven?
Easily reheat this covered, in the oven at 350 until warm – about 20 minutes.
Steps for Making Breakfast Casserole:
Layered with bread, eggs, cheese, sausage and more cheesy, there won’t be a single hungry tummy.
- First, you start off with a greased 9×13 baking dish. Layer the bread slices in the bottom of the pan. I usually use about 8 slices to cover the bottoms and sides of the casserole dish.
- Then, brown your sausage, drain and crumble over the bread. Sprinkle with cheese.
- Next, in a bowl, whisk eggs and milk together and pour over the bread and sausage. Top with remaining cheese. Bake and serve!
Complete this Breakfast Casserole Recipe:
Best Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1 pound ground, mild italian sausage*
- 6-8 slices soft hearty bread*
- One 8-ounce package cheddar cheese*
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 13- by 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly.
- Arrange bread slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, to cover the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with the sausage and cheese.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt and pepper; carefully pour the mixture over the cheese. Top with additional cheese if desired.
- Bake casserole until set and golden – about 60 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Susie says
This is perfect! I am hosting Christmas and we’ll need something for breakfast
Anna Kate says
It’s delicious with a mimosa, too!
Amy says
This os going on the brunch list!
Anna Kate says
It’s a must-have every year for us!
Tawnie Kroll says
This will be perfect for Christmas morning!
Anna Kate says
It’s one of our favorites!
Emily Bruno says
Feeding a crowd is always a challenge- this looks perfect!