Overnight Sausage and Egg Breakfast Bake

There’s nothing quite like waking up to a hot, hearty breakfast casserole that’s already prepped and ready to slide into the oven. An overnight sausage and egg breakfast bake with cheese is the ultimate solution for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or feeding a crowd during the holidays. It combines protein-packed ingredients, melty cheese, and seasoned hash browns into one delicious dish that requires minimal effort in the morning.

The real beauty of this cheesy sausage breakfast casserole with hash browns lies in its convenience. You can mix everything the night before, let it rest in the fridge, and simply bake it in the morning. This makes it ideal for hosting brunches, prepping meals ahead of a workweek, or impressing guests without waking up at dawn. The versatility and make-ahead nature of this dish set it apart from typical stovetop breakfasts.

With a blend of beef sausage, chicken ham, turkey bacon, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese, every bite delivers flavor and satisfaction. If you’re curious about the origins of some of these ingredients—like how breakfast sausage became a staple in American mornings or the nutritional benefits of eggs as food—there’s a rich history behind these breakfast classics.

Whether you’re exploring overnight casserole ideas for a weekend brunch or aiming for a simple breakfast meal prep strategy, this recipe is your new go-to. It fits seamlessly into both special occasions and everyday routines, providing a flavorful start with minimal effort.

Next, we’ll dive into why this cheesy breakfast bake deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole

This cheesy sausage breakfast casserole with hash browns isn’t just easy—it’s a total game-changer for anyone who values flavor, convenience, and versatility. Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend breakfast, hosting brunch, or just need a reliable make-ahead dish, there are several reasons this recipe stands out.

Quick Prep Time
You only need about 10 minutes to mix everything together. Simply sauté the vegetables, combine with pre-cooked meats and hash browns, then stir in eggs, cheese, and seasoning. Pop it in the fridge overnight, and it’s ready to bake in the morning.

Perfect for Meal Prep
This casserole is an excellent option for weekly meal planning. You can slice it into squares and store them in the fridge or freezer. Need more ideas? Check out these inspiring breakfast meal prep boards on Pinterest for additional recipes and storage tips.
Feeds a Crowd Easily
With a full 9×13-inch pan, this dish easily serves 8–10 people. It’s a smart choice for holiday breakfasts, potlucks, or anytime you need a hearty, filling option. Add sides like toast or fruit, and you have a complete spread.
Customizable to Your Needs
Whether you’re avoiding pork, cutting back on dairy, or just using what’s in the fridge, this overnight egg sausage bake adapts beautifully. You can swap meats, switch cheeses, or even go vegetarian. Explore brunch ideas for creative variations using similar base ingredients.

Minimal Dishes and Cleanup
Since everything mixes in one large bowl before baking, cleanup is as simple as it gets. Fewer dirty pans and less time in the kitchen equals more time enjoying your morning.

This overnight sausage and egg breakfast bake checks all the boxes: it’s hearty, cheesy, make-ahead-friendly, and adaptable to almost any diet or occasion. Next, we’ll break down the key ingredients that make this casserole both satisfying and simple.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

The success of this cheesy sausage breakfast casserole with hash browns comes down to its carefully selected ingredients. Each component adds texture, flavor, and nutrition, making the dish both balanced and satisfying. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the core elements and why they matter.

Proteins

Beef Sausage (1 lb, cooked and crumbled)
This ingredient brings bold flavor and a savory bite to the casserole. It’s the star of the dish and provides the rich, seasoned taste typical of breakfast sausage. You can substitute with pork, chicken, or even plant-based sausage.

Chicken Ham (½ cup, diced)
Chicken ham adds a leaner protein option and a slightly smoky flavor. It complements the richness of the sausage without overpowering the dish.
Turkey Bacon (½ cup, chopped)
A healthier twist on traditional bacon, turkey bacon adds saltiness and crisp texture. It balances the fat content while maintaining flavor.

These proteins not only build the dish’s structure but also provide the high-protein breakfast benefits that keep you full and energized.

Vegetables

Onion (1 small, diced)
Sautéed onions offer sweetness and depth. They create a fragrant base when cooked in olive oil and blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
Red & Green Bell Peppers (1 each, diced)
These colorful vegetables enhance visual appeal and provide subtle sweetness and crunch. They’re also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Learn more about their nutritional value in this bell pepper guide from Wikipedia.

Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
Used for sautéing the vegetables, olive oil adds healthy fats and improves texture.

These vegetables contribute moisture, flavor, and visual variety—key factors in an appealing casserole.

Binding Ingredients

Eggs (8 large)
Eggs hold the casserole together, creating a fluffy, custard-like texture. As a staple in any egg breakfast bake, they add protein and structure. Discover more about their nutritional importance on the egg as a food Wikipedia page.
Milk (1 cup)
Milk combines with the eggs to create a creamy mixture that bakes into a smooth, cohesive casserole.
Cheese (1½ cups cheddar + ½ cup mozzarella)
The sharpness of cheddar pairs well with the mild creaminess of mozzarella, delivering that signature cheesy breakfast bake texture. It melts perfectly into the casserole, creating golden, bubbly edges.

Seasoning
A mix of salt, black pepper, and garlic powder adds subtle depth without overpowering the ingredients. For more on how garlic transforms dishes, check out this entry on garlic powder.

These elements are essential to achieving a custardy, well-balanced dish with rich, savory flavor.

Hash Browns

Frozen Hash Browns (2 cups, thawed)
These create the comforting, starchy base of the casserole. They absorb the egg mixture while baking, giving the dish a hearty structure. Frozen varieties save time and blend seamlessly into the mixture. For more background on how hash browns became a breakfast staple, visit this hash browns page.

Hash browns are what make this dish feel like a full, complete meal in one pan.

As we move into the next section, we’ll explore how to tailor this overnight casserole to suit different dietary needs, preferences, and tastes without compromising flavor.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about a cheesy sausage breakfast casserole with hash browns is how flexible it is. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs, changing up flavors, or using what’s in your kitchen, this recipe can be easily adapted.

Make It Spicy
Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or spicy sausage to give your casserole a bold kick. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes also enhances the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Go Vegetarian
Skip the meat entirely and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, and tomatoes. You can even add cooked lentils or plant-based sausage alternatives for protein.

Low-Carb Option
Replace the hash browns with cauliflower rice or chopped steamed broccoli for a low-carb breakfast bake. This keeps it hearty without the extra carbs.
Dairy-Free Adaptation
Use unsweetened almond milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a delicious dairy-free egg casserole. Make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
Add Fresh Herbs
Try folding in chopped chives, parsley, or basil before baking. Herbs brighten the flavor and add color.

Try Different Cheeses
Replace mozzarella with pepper jack for spice or use gouda, Swiss, or feta for unique flavor profiles.

For more unique spins on this classic, explore make-ahead breakfast ideas that use similar pantry staples.

Nutritional Information Overview

This overnight sausage and egg breakfast bake is not only comforting and filling, it also packs nutritional value that fits into many diets. Here’s a general overview of its macronutrient breakdown (per serving, based on 10 servings):

Calories: ~290

Protein: ~17g
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fat: ~19g

Fiber: ~1g
Sugars: ~2g

Thanks to the combination of eggs, sausage, and cheese, the dish is high in protein, which helps with satiety and muscle recovery. The hash browns provide a source of carbohydrates for energy, while vegetables like bell peppers and onions bring essential vitamins and minerals.

If you’re following a specific plan like keto, paleo, or low-fat, this casserole can be easily modified. Swap the hash browns for lower-carb veggies or reduce the amount of cheese and sausage for a lighter option.

For more ideas on high-protein breakfast recipes, check out relevant Pinterest boards that show how others are adapting similar dishes.

How to Make Overnight Sausage and Egg Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Creating this overnight sausage and egg breakfast bake with cheese is a simple, straightforward process. Follow these steps for the perfect outcome every time.

Cook the Proteins and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté 1 small diced onion and 1 diced green and red bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes.
In a separate pan, cook 1 lb of beef sausage until browned and crumbled. Set aside.

If needed, warm and chop the turkey bacon and chicken ham.

Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Combine All Ingredients

Add to the bowl:
- Cooked sausage, turkey bacon, and ham
- Sautéed vegetables
- 2 cups thawed hash browns
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Assemble and Refrigerate

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
Refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours.

Bake

In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Uncover the casserole and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This allows it to firm up and makes serving easier.

This casserole pairs well with toast, fruit, or a dollop of salsa for extra flavor. For more visually creative recipes, explore overnight breakfast casserole ideas.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cheesy breakfast casserole is designed for convenience. Here’s how to prep and store it effectively:

Refrigerate Before Baking
Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight (up to 24 hours). This lets the flavors meld and saves time in the morning.

Store Leftovers
After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Slice into portions and store in airtight containers:
- In the fridge for up to 4 days
- In the freezer for up to 3 months

Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: Cover with foil and warm at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.

This dish is ideal for breakfast meal prep, especially when you want hearty food ready with minimal effort.

Serving Suggestions

Make your breakfast table complete by pairing the casserole with any of these options:

Fresh fruit salad or sliced melon
Buttered toast, croissants, or English muffins

Greek yogurt with honey
Freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea
Salsa, sour cream, or hot sauce on the side

Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish

Looking for more brunch ideas? Browse Pinterest brunch inspiration to mix and match for your next gathering.

Troubleshooting and Pro Tips

Avoid common pitfalls and elevate your casserole with these quick tips:

Too Runny?
Bake longer or check oven temperature. Let it rest after baking so it firms up.
Dry Texture?
Don’t overbake. Adding a splash more milk can improve moisture before baking.
Soggy Bottom?
Make sure hash browns are fully thawed and patted dry before mixing.
Golden Top, Soft Center?
Cover loosely with foil and bake an additional 5–10 minutes.
Extra Flavor
Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for depth.

For more advanced techniques and adaptations, check out easy make-ahead breakfast ideas from Pinterest creators and bloggers.

FAQs

Can I freeze this breakfast casserole?
Yes. Freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of hash browns?
Yes, just shred them finely and squeeze out excess moisture. This prevents sogginess and helps the casserole bake evenly.

How long can I refrigerate the uncooked mixture?
You can safely refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What kind of sausage works best?
Traditional breakfast sausage is ideal, but you can use spicy Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or vegetarian options based on your preference.

Can I bake it right away without chilling overnight?
Yes, but let the mixture sit for at least 20 minutes before baking to help the flavors meld and ensure an even bake.

Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole with Hash Browns