This Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole is a fun twist on breakfast! It layers fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and gooey cheese all in one dish, making it super hearty and delicious.
Perfect for lazy mornings or when you have guests, it’s easy to make ahead. I love serving it with maple syrup on top—it makes every bite even better! Who can resist that combo? 🥞🍴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: The star of this dish! I recommend using pork breakfast sausage for its rich flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too. You can also use vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.
Pancake Mix: This recipe calls for a dry pancake mix for simplicity. If you don’t have any, you can make your own using flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Just mix 1 cup of flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but feel free to mix it up! I love adding a bit of pepper jack for some extra spice. Other great options include mozzarella or a blend of cheese for different flavors.
Milk: Any milk works! I use whole milk for creaminess, but almond milk, soy milk, or skim milk are great alternatives for those with dietary preferences.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting that perfect texture is key! To check doneness, insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean when the casserole is ready. Here’s a tip:
- Start checking at 30 minutes. Ovens can vary in heat, so it’s best not to wait until the full time is up!
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking.
- Let it cool a few minutes before cutting; this helps it set better and makes serving easier!
These small steps will help you achieve a delightful breakfast casserole that everyone will love!
Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups pancake mix (dry mix)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (if not included in pancake mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. With just a little time and effort, you’ll have a hearty breakfast dish that can serve a crowd or satisfy your family on a lazy morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage. Use a spatula to break it into small pieces while browning it. Once it’s completely cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until they’re nice and combined. This is going to give your casserole a fluffy texture!
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Add the pancake mix, baking powder (if your mix doesn’t have it), salt, and pepper to the egg mixture. Gently stir everything together. Remember not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!
5. Mix in Sausage and Cheese:
Now, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the cooked sausage into the batter. This will ensure each bite is filled with delicious flavor!
6. Pour into Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
7. Add Cheese on Top:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This will create a lovely cheesy crust as it bakes!
8. Bake Your Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’re looking for the casserole to be firm in the center and golden brown on top.
9. Cooling Time:
Once it’s ready, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to cut into squares.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve it warm. If you like a sweet touch, drizzle some maple syrup over your portion. Enjoy this delightful breakfast that’s sure to please everyone!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute pork sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even use vegetarian sausage if you prefer a meat-free dish. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding to the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! To make it easier in the morning, prepare the mixture the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply pour it into the baking dish and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it nice and moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some cooked veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or onions for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cooked and drained of excess moisture before adding to the egg mixture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
