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Make-Ahead Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Make-ahead sausage breakfast casserole layers maple-flavored pork sausage, sturdy bread, and sharp cheddar under a maple-sweetened egg custard. Refrigerate it overnight, then bake until the center is set for an easy breakfast with a golden top.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Chilling and resting 8 hours 40 minutes
Total Time 10 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 465
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp butter softened, for greasing
  • 1 lb bulk maple-flavored pork breakfast sausage
  • 10 oz bread sturdy, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
  • 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 eggs large
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 0.25 cup pure maple syrup
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish
  • 1 large skillet

Method
 

  1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with the softened butter.
  2. Cook the bulk maple-flavored pork breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and cooked through; drain excess grease.
  3. Spread the bread cubes in the prepared dish, then scatter the sausage and shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the bread.
  4. Whisk the eggs, whole milk, pure maple syrup, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl, then pour the mixture evenly over the casserole.
  5. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours and up to 12 hours.
  6. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes while the oven heats to 350°F.
  7. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is set and reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer.
  8. Rest the casserole for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best texture, use sturdy bread so it holds its shape after soaking in the egg mixture. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; freeze portions for up to 2 months. For a lighter option, use turkey breakfast sausage.