Hearty Breakfast Casserole for Cold Nights – Easy & Cozy

Warm up with this hearty breakfast casserole, perfect for cold nights. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a comforting start to your day.

Hearty breakfast casserole is a perfect way to start chilly mornings with warmth and flavor. This recipe combines eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread for a filling dish everyone loves. Whether you’re serving a family or prepping meals ahead, it’s simple and satisfying. Visit our Easy Weeknight Dinners for more cozy meals.

Why You’ll Love It

This breakfast casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and comfort. It’s great for cold nights when you want something hearty and warming without a fuss. Plus, it’s versatile for adding your favorite veggies or swaps for dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (or any plant-based substitute)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups cubed bread (day-old, such as sourdough or white bread)
• 1 cup cooked sausage crumbles (can substitute with bacon or sausage alternatives)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese)
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 2 tablespoons butter (or oil for dairy-free)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add cubed bread, cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, and shredded cheese. Stir well so all pieces are coated.
4. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish. Press down gently to compress the ingredients.
5. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.

Expert Tips

For a fluffier texture, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Use stale bread for better absorption and texture. Feel free to swap sausage with turkey sausage or plant-based options. To make it ahead, assemble the night before and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This breakfast casserole also freezes well—cool completely, then freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Variations

• Vegan: Use tofu scramble instead of eggs, plant-based sausage, and dairy-free cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute bread cubes with gluten-free bread.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free cheese, replace butter with oil.
• Refined Sugar-Free: This recipe contains no added sugars, perfect for sugar-conscious diets.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare it the night before, keep it refrigerated, and bake in the morning for fresh, warm breakfast casserole.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have sausage?
A: Bacon, ham, or a plant-based sausage alternative all work great.

Q: Can I freeze breakfast casserole leftovers?
A: Absolutely, wrap leftovers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Is this breakfast casserole healthy?
A: Yes, it’s a balanced dish with protein, carbs, and fat. You can add veggies to boost nutrition.

We’d love to hear your variations or tips—feel free to comment, save, and share this hearty breakfast casserole recipe!