Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a savory, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish that brings bold Italian flavors to your morning table. With layers of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, hearty sausage, and crisp vegetables, it’s perfect for weekend brunch, holidays, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This breakfast casserole is the perfect make-ahead meal. It’s packed with protein, easy to customize, and bakes into a golden, cheesy masterpiece every time. Whether you’re serving a crowd or looking for a simple breakfast that’ll last all week, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Italian sausage, casings removed
- Eggs
- Milk
- Bell peppers, diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Dried Italian seasoning
- Olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
- Bread cubes or hash browns (optional base layer)
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional garnish)
directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbled. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the onion, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- If using bread cubes or hash browns, layer them evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables evenly over the base layer.
- Pour the egg mixture over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh herbs and slicing to serve.
Servings and timing
Serves 8 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Use turkey or chicken Italian sausage for a leaner option.
- Swap in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added veggies.
- Try different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or feta.
- Make it spicy by using hot Italian sausage and adding red pepper flakes.
- Skip the bread or potatoes for a low-carb, keto-friendly version.
storage/reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm the full casserole in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
To freeze, let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this breakfast casserole the night before?
Yes, assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Do I have to use bread or potatoes?
No, they’re optional. The casserole works well with just sausage, veggies, and eggs.
What kind of sausage works best?
Mild or hot Italian sausage, either pork or turkey, works beautifully in this dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The eggs should be fully set and the top lightly golden. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I use egg whites or egg substitute?
Yes, egg whites or egg substitute can be used for a lighter version.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
If you skip the bread or use gluten-free bread, it can be made gluten-free.
Can I make this in a smaller dish?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time—start checking around 25–30 minutes.
What cheese melts best for this recipe?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack all melt well and add great flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
Conclusion
Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a flavorful, filling, and flexible dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. With its rich sausage, tender vegetables, and cheesy egg base, it’s easy to see why this casserole is a family favorite. Make it ahead, freeze it for later, or customize it to your taste—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfect for brunch, holidays, or make-ahead weekday breakfasts. Loaded with flavorful sausage, melty cheese, and fluffy eggs, it’s baked to golden perfection and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
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1 small onion, diced
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1 small red bell pepper, diced
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1 small green bell pepper, diced
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6 large eggs
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2 cups milk
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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6 slices white or Italian bread, cut into cubes
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage with diced onion and bell peppers until sausage is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess grease.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
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Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the bread cubes evenly in the bottom.
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Spoon the sausage and vegetable mixture over the bread.
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Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
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Pour the egg mixture over the entire casserole.
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Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
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You can assemble this casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning!
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Add spinach, mushrooms, or swap in other cheeses like cheddar for a twist.
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Works well with day-old bread.