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A delicious prep-ahead breakfast casserole, ready for mornings

Hearty Sausage and Cheddar Prep-Ahead Breakfast Casserole with Bell Peppers

This hearty breakfast casserole is packed with savory sausage, sharp cheddar, and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for prepping the night before, it's a delicious and convenient way to feed a crowd.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk dairy or almond
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage cooked and crumbled
  • 8 slices stale bread cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 1 bell pepper any color, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder Optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the breakfast sausage in a large skillet, breaking it up and then draining any excess fat.
  • Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper in the same skillet until softened.
  • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the stale bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
  • Sprinkle the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables over the bread cubes.
  • Top with 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
  • Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish, gently pressing down any floating ingredients.
  • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Baking

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  • Uncover the casserole and bake for 45-60 minutes, until the center is set and golden brown.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For best results, allow the casserole to chill overnight. This lets the flavors meld and the bread soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a more uniform texture. You can customize this casserole by adding other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.