Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and protein.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps to blend the ingredients together.

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and flavorful element to the dish.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the flavor.

To ensure your breakfast casserole is extra fluffy and light, try whisking the eggs and milk mixture for a few extra minutes until it becomes slightly frothy. This incorporates more air into the mixture, resulting in a more tender and airy texture once baked.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a great vegan alternative and helps bind the ingredients together.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles, providing a similar texture and flavor.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still provides a similar flavor and texture.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor with an additional umami taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor but is slightly milder and less visually noticeable in the dish.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can transfer the casserole to an airtight container.

• For short-term storage, place the covered casserole in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the casserole, wrap it in a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.

• Label the wrapped casserole with the date and contents. This makes it easier to identify and ensures you use it within the optimal time frame.

• Store the casserole in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. For best results, consume it within this period to maintain flavor and texture.

• When ready to reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the dish's integrity.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the thawed casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, extend the baking time to 45-60 minutes, covering with foil if the top browns too quickly.

• For individual portions, slice the casserole into servings before freezing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. This allows you to reheat single servings as needed.

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover breakfast casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to get a slightly crispy top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Cut a portion of the casserole and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Add more time if necessary, in 30-second increments.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the leftover casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the casserole is heated evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover casserole in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook. This method will give you a nice, crispy texture on the outside.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for whisking together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Helps in thoroughly combining the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Skillet: Used to cook and crumble the breakfast sausage.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the cooked sausage and shredded cheese into the egg mixture.

• Baking dish: The container where the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

• Aluminum foil: For covering the baking dish when refrigerating overnight.

• Refrigerator: Necessary for storing the casserole overnight before baking.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when handling the hot baking dish from the oven.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cook and crumble the breakfast sausage the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine the salt and black pepper with the shredded cheese and cooked sausage the night before.

Grease the baking dish early: Prepare the baking dish the night before to streamline your morning routine.

Set up your oven timer: Use your oven's timer function to start preheating automatically in the morning.