If you’re looking for the perfect dish to kickstart your morning or impress your family during weekend brunch, the Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Breakfast Bake is here to steal the show. This hearty, flavorful dish combines crispy bacon, savory sausage, and melty cheese with perfectly baked bread, creating a breakfast casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore how to make this recipe, complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, preparation time, tips for perfection, and calorie details. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy, meaty breakfast bake:
Main Ingredients:
- Bread slices: 6-8 slices of day-old bread (white, whole grain, or sourdough)
- Bacon: 6 strips, cooked and crumbled
- Sausage: 200g (or 2 links), cooked and crumbled
- Eggs: 6 large
- Milk: 1 cup (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer texture)
- Shredded cheese: 2 cups (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Bell peppers (optional): 1 medium-sized, diced
- Green onions or parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Butter or oil: For greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
If using vegetables like bell peppers or onions, sauté them lightly in the same pan for additional flavor.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
Layer the bottom of the dish with slices of bread, ensuring the surface is fully covered. You can slightly overlap the slices if needed.
Evenly sprinkle the crumbled bacon, sausage, and any sautéed vegetables over the bread.
Add a generous layer of shredded cheese, reserving some for topping.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for an extra flavor boost.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish. Press the bread slightly with a spatula to ensure it soaks up the liquid.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for a gooey, golden crust.
Step 4: Bake the Breakfast Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Breakfast Bake
Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it beforehand.
Customizable Add-Ins: Add diced mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
Make It Ahead: This dish can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning. Just cover and refrigerate overnight.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, Swiss, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Crispy Top Tip: For an extra-crispy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs or parmesan cheese over the final cheese layer before baking.
Calories Per Serving
The calorie count for a single serving (1 slice of an 8-slice casserole) depends on the specific ingredients used. Here’s an estimate:
Bread (2 slices): 140 calories
Bacon (1 slice): 43 calories
Sausage (50g): 160 calories
Eggs (1 egg): 70 calories
Milk (¼ cup): 40 calories
Cheese (¼ cup): 110 calories
Total per serving (approximate): 560 calories.
This count may vary depending on portion size and optional ingredients.
Why This Breakfast Bake Stands Out
Balanced Flavor: The savory combination of bacon, sausage, and cheese ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Perfect for Crowds: This recipe is ideal for feeding a large group and can be easily doubled for bigger gatherings.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepping ahead of time makes it a hassle-free option for busy mornings or special occasions.
Versatile: Whether you add veggies, use a different type of bread, or swap out meats, this dish can be customized endlessly.
Delicious Variations to Try
Vegetarian Breakfast Bake: Replace bacon and sausage with plant-based substitutes or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
Mexican-Inspired: Add jalapeños, salsa, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Mini Bakes: Prepare the recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for single-serve portions.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this breakfast bake with a fresh fruit salad or smoothie for a balanced morning meal.
- Serve alongside a side of hash browns or roasted potatoes for an even heartier breakfast spread.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Breakfast Bake is everything you want in a breakfast dish: warm, comforting, and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, feeding a hungry family, or just treating yourself to a cozy morning, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Best of all, it’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.
So why not take your breakfast game to the next level? Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the ultimate breakfast casserole. Trust us – it’s worth every bite