If you’re looking for the ultimate morning crowd-pleaser that makes hosting brunch a total breeze, this Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole will be your new go-to recipe. It’s that magical combination of savory sausage or bacon, fluffy eggs, gooey cheddar cheese, pillowy bread, and colorful veggies, all baked in one pan and ready whenever you are. Whether you’re feeding overnight guests, prepping for a holiday morning, or just want a satisfying breakfast with minimal morning effort, this dish delivers hearty flavor, convenience, and all-around happiness with every forkful.

Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things so simple, using everyday ingredients you probably already have at home. Each one plays a crucial role, from building irresistible layers of taste to creating the perfect texture and eye-catching color on your breakfast table.

Breakfast sausage or bacon: Choose your favorite! These bring rich, savory flavor and a satisfying, meaty bite to every slice.
Large eggs: The core of any casserole, eggs provide structure and that classic, creamy custard texture we all love.
Whole milk: Using whole milk makes your casserole extra luxurious and ensures it’s fluffy rather than dry.
Salt: Don’t skip the salt; it balances the dish and wakes up all the flavors.
Black pepper: Just a bit of pepper adds gentle heat and depth to every bite.
Garlic powder: A touch of garlic powder infuses the whole casserole with a warm, aromatic note.
Cubed French or sandwich bread: Day-old bread works best, soaking up the custard and baking up tender and flavorful.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp cheddar pulls the whole dish together with gooey pockets of cheesy goodness.
Diced bell peppers: These add tons of color, sweetness, and a satisfying crunch.
Diced onion: A little onion brings subtle sweetness and savory lift to the casserole.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): This is your finishing touch—perfect for a pop of freshness and pretty color.

How to Make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This helps your Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole bake up evenly and makes clean-up so much easier later on!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture

In a big mixing bowl, crack in those eggs, pour in the milk, and add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Give it all a thorough whisk until everything is well combined—this is what gives your casserole its irresistibly custardy texture.

Step 3: Add the Filling Ingredients

Now add the cubed bread, cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell peppers, and onion right into that bowl. Gently stir or fold it all together so every piece of bread gets coated in rich, eggy goodness and every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour your mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Press down lightly so it sets nicely as it chills. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight—or for at least 4 hours—so the bread can soak up all that glorious custard.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes first. Then, remove the covering and bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes. It’s ready when the center is set and the top is beautifully golden and puffy. Let it cool for five minutes, then slice and serve, topping with fresh parsley if you like.

How to Serve Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a vibrant green touch that also adds a hint of herbaceous flavor. If you want to level things up even more, a scattering of sliced scallions or a light dusting of paprika can make your Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole extra inviting.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp fruit salad or a bowl of fresh berries for a refreshing balance. You can also add crispy hash browns or roasted potatoes if you’re aiming for an extra hearty brunch spread. Don’t forget a pitcher of orange juice or coffee to round things out!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist at brunch, cut the casserole into cubes and serve on a platter with decorative toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites. Or portion into ramekins for individual servings—perfect for special occasions or making everyone feel a little extra pampered.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply cover the baking dish tightly or transfer portions to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days—the flavors seem to get even better with time, making this Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole a delicious option for busy mornings throughout the week!

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly! After baking and cooling completely, cut the casserole into portions and wrap them tightly, or freeze the whole thing in the baking dish (just make sure it’s freezer-safe). Store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for a quick breakfast or, for a crispier top, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil and bake until hot—about 20–25 minutes for individual slices or longer for a whole casserole.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the sausage or bacon for plant-based alternatives, or load up with extra sautéed veggies like mushrooms, spinach, and tomatoes for a meatless version that’s just as hearty and flavorful.

What’s the best bread to use?

Day-old French bread is classic for its sturdiness and subtle flavor, but any thick-cut sandwich bread works too. Use gluten-free bread if needed—the texture holds up great, making this recipe perfect for almost any dietary need.

Can I prepare it further ahead than overnight?

Yes, you can prep it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it tightly covered in the fridge until baking time. The bread will absorb more custard the longer it sits, resulting in an even richer and fluffier casserole.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

Your casserole is ready when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan, and the top is golden brown. If you’re unsure, insert a knife into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Can I customize the cheese and vegetables?

Definitely! Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, and mix in any favorite veggies or even chopped ham for your own signature Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole. It’s endlessly adaptable.

Final Thoughts

If you love a cozy, fuss-free breakfast that makes everyone’s morning brighter, you have to try this Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to win hearts and fill bellies, no matter the occasion or crowd. Happy baking, and may your mornings always start with something delicious!

Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 19 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and satisfying morning meal that can be prepared the night before, making breakfast a breeze. Packed with savory sausage or bacon, eggs, cheese, and veggies, this hearty casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 pound breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked and crumbled
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Additional Ingredients:

4 cups cubed French bread or sandwich bread (day-old works best)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced bell peppers
1/2 cup diced onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Add bread cubes, cooked sausage or bacon, cheese, bell peppers, and onion. Stir gently to combine. Pour into the baking dish and cover. Refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until set and golden brown. Cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.