Sausage Egg Bake Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Breakfast Casserole
Are you looking for a hearty and satisfying breakfast that's also easy to prepare? Look no further than this sausage egg bake recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or even a make-ahead meal for a crowd. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your liking with different cheeses, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous 9x13 inch casserole, perfect for feeding a family or several guests.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor and color)
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or any cheese you prefer!)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions for a Perfect Sausage Egg Bake:
Follow these simple steps for a breakfast casserole that's sure to impress:
Step 1: Prep the Sausage and Vegetables
- Brown the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. This adds a depth of flavor that elevates the whole dish.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the thawed and squeezed spinach. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Whisk the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. This creates a light and fluffy base for your casserole.
- Combine everything: Add the sausage mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine. Gently fold in the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
- Pour into baking dish: Pour the egg and sausage mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown. The center should be cooked through and no longer jiggly.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of toast, pancakes, or fresh fruit.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra kick.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding diced potatoes or breakfast meats like bacon or ham.
Tips for the Best Sausage Egg Bake:
- Don't overcook the sausage: Overcooked sausage can be dry and tough. Aim for a nice, browned crumble.
- Squeeze out excess spinach: Excess moisture from the spinach can make the casserole watery. Make sure to squeeze it dry before adding it to the mixture.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese adds a significant flavor component, so use a cheese you enjoy.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
This sausage egg bake recipe is a fantastic way to start your day or impress your guests. It’s incredibly versatile and adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy!
