Some recipes just feel like home, and this breakfast casserole is one of them. It’s the kind of dish you’d find scribbled on a well-loved recipe card tucked inside a family recipe tin—simple, hearty, and made with love. Whether you’re making this for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is packed with comforting flavors and easy to throw together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect make-ahead breakfast – Prep it the night before and bake it in the morning.
Feeds a crowd – A great option for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings.
Customizable – Switch up the ingredients to fit your preferences or whatever you have on hand.
One-dish wonder – No need to juggle multiple pans in the morning!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Eggs
Breakfast sausage or bacon
Shredded cheese
Milk
Bread cubes or hash browns
Salt, pepper, and seasoning of choice

Full list of ingredients with measurements can be found below.

Directions

Cook the Meat

Brown the breakfast sausage or cook the bacon until crispy. Drain any excess grease and set aside.

Prep the Bread or Hash Browns

If using bread, cut it into cubes. If using hash browns, spread them in a greased baking dish.

Whisk the Eggs

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings.

Assemble the Casserole

Layer the bread cubes or hash browns, followed by the cooked sausage or bacon, and then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.

Bake

Cover and let it sit in the fridge overnight or bake immediately in a preheated 350°F oven for 35-45 minutes, until set and golden brown on top.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use stale bread – If using bread instead of hash browns, slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better.
Let it rest before serving – This helps the casserole firm up for cleaner slices.
Make it ahead – Assemble everything the night before for an easy morning bake.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Add veggies – Bell peppers, onions, or spinach add color and flavor.
Use different meats – Swap sausage or bacon for ham, turkey, or even chorizo.
Go dairy-free – Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair this casserole with fresh fruit, a side of toast, or a simple green salad. It also goes great with a cup of coffee or a mimosa for a special brunch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat – Warm slices in the microwave or oven at 300°F until heated through.
Freeze – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack all work well.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, just leave out the meat and add extra veggies or plant-based sausage.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The center should be set, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I bake it right away?
Yes, but letting it sit for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

This Breakfast Casserole is a classic, no-fuss recipe that belongs in every family’s recipe tin. Whether you’re making it for a holiday breakfast or a weekday meal prep, it’s a simple, comforting dish that always hits the spot.

Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Breakfast Casserole – A Family Favorite

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This hearty breakfast casserole is a timeless family favorite. Made with eggs, sausage or bacon, cheese, and either bread cubes or hash browns, it’s a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or meal prepping. Make it ahead for an easy, no-stress breakfast!

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned or cook the bacon until crispy. Drain excess grease and set aside.
Prepare the Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread bread cubes or hash browns evenly in the dish.
Whisk the Eggs: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked sausage or bacon over the bread or hash browns, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Customization: Add bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Options: Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend.