Ina Garten’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish for any brunch gathering or a comforting family breakfast.
It combines hearty sausage, fluffy eggs, and cheesy goodness all baked together, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the best part is that it can be prepared the night before, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with your loved ones in the morning.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this casserole is not only convenient but also a fantastic way to start your day with something satisfying. It’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite ingredients, and it can feed a group easily, making it ideal for holidays or special occasions.
How To Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sausage
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 loaf of bread (cubed)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp mustard powder (optional)
Directions:
- In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder.
- In a greased baking dish, layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
- Serve warm.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook, making a total of 55 minutes. It serves 8 people, and each serving has about 400 calories, with approximately 20 grams of protein and 25 grams of fat.
How To Serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Serve the casserole warm from the oven, and consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a simple green salad.
How To Store Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips To Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Feel free to use leftover bread or any type of bread you have on hand, such as sourdough or whole grain.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute the sausage with cooked bacon, ham, or a meat alternative for a different flavor.
- For added nutrition, incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a great source of protein, thanks to the eggs and sausage. The dairy adds calcium, and if you use whole grain bread, you’ll also get fiber. Including vegetables can enhance the vitamin content, making this dish balanced and nourishing. While it is hearty, it can also be modified to suit a lower-fat diet by choosing lean meats and low-fat cheese options.
Variation (If Any)
You can easily customize this recipe by adding different ingredients such as diced vegetables, using different types of cheese, or substituting the sausage with turkey sausage or vegan options to cater to various dietary preferences.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole without meat?
Yes, you can omit the sausage or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Any bread works! However, sturdy breads like sourdough or French bread hold up better in the custard.Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread to make the casserole gluten-free.Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or any of your favorite veggies.How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking for an extra kick.