Are you craving something hearty and comforting to kick off your morning? Look no further than this Sausage and Waffle Casserole, a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Combining the crispiness of waffles with the savory flavor of crumbled breakfast sausage, this casserole is an irresistible blend of sweet and savory goodness.
The best part? This dish is incredibly easy to make, and the result is a hearty meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or preparing an effortless weekend breakfast, this casserole checks all the boxes.
In this article, we will walk you through how to make this Sausage and Waffle Casserole from start to finish, plus some great tips for customization and serving. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy this indulgent breakfast bake.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Waffle Casserole
Sausage and waffles are a classic combination that never goes out of style. When baked together in a casserole, they create a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Here’s why this recipe is so beloved:
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Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the sausage and eggs, this casserole will keep you full all morning long. It’s a perfect start to a busy day or a lazy weekend.
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Easy to Prepare: This casserole is incredibly easy to assemble. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s the ideal recipe for beginners or anyone looking for a stress-free meal.
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Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep. You can whip it up on a Sunday and enjoy it for breakfast throughout the week.
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Customizable: Whether you prefer a different cheese, want to add veggies, or use a different type of sausage, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Sausage and Waffle Casserole
Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together beautifully to create a savory, cheesy casserole.
Main Ingredients:
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8 frozen waffles, toasted and cut into bite-sized pieces
Frozen waffles make the perfect base for this casserole, giving it a nice crisp texture. Toasting them first ensures that they won’t get soggy during baking. -
1 pound bulk breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
Bulk breakfast sausage adds a rich, savory flavor to this casserole. The sausage is cooked and crumbled so it can be evenly distributed throughout the dish. -
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Cheddar cheese provides a melty, creamy finish that complements the sausage and waffles. You can use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or mild cheddar for a more subtle taste. -
8 large eggs
Eggs serve as the binding agent for this casserole. They help hold everything together while adding protein and richness. -
1¼ cups milk
Milk adds moisture to the casserole, ensuring a tender and creamy texture. Whole milk works best, but you can use any milk you prefer. -
¼ teaspoon salt
A small amount of salt helps enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. -
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
Black pepper adds a touch of spice to balance the richness of the eggs and sausage.
Variations and Substitutes:
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free waffles to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk.
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Veggie Version: You can add sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to this casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
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Different Sausage: If you prefer turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage, you can easily swap those in for the traditional pork sausage.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage and Waffle Casserole
Ready to make this delicious breakfast casserole? Follow these simple steps to assemble your Sausage and Waffle Casserole. It’s as easy as 1-2-3!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and becomes golden and delicious. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Layer Waffles & Sausage
Next, toast your frozen waffles and cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can either use a toaster or place them in the oven for a few minutes. Arrange the toasted waffle pieces in the greased baking dish. Then, top the waffles with the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage.
Step 3: Mix the Eggs
In a separate bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 1¼ cups milk, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ⅛ teaspoon black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. This egg mixture will serve as the custard that binds all the ingredients together.
Step 4: Pour the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the waffle and sausage layers in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the mixture to ensure it soaks into all the crevices and coats the waffles and sausage.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole is ready when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Step 6: Let it Cool and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to cut into squares. Serve it warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Sausage and Waffle Casserole
Here are some tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
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Use Toasted Waffles: Toast the waffles before using them in the casserole. This helps prevent them from becoming soggy and ensures a crispy texture.
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Customize the Cheese: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of your favorites.
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Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut.
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Make It Ahead: You can prepare this casserole the night before by assembling it, covering it, and refrigerating it overnight. In the morning, simply bake it as directed.
Serving Ideas for Sausage and Waffle Casserole
This casserole is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a variety of side dishes for a complete breakfast or brunch experience. Here are some ideas:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and grapes complements the richness of the casserole.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle some warm maple syrup over individual portions of the casserole for that classic waffles and sausage flavor combo.
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Crispy Bacon: If you’re a fan of bacon, serve a side of crispy bacon alongside the casserole for an extra crunch.
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Scrambled Eggs: Add some scrambled eggs for even more protein, making this meal even more filling.
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Coffee or Juice: Pair your casserole with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of orange juice for a traditional breakfast experience.
Why Sausage and Waffle Casserole is a Must-Try
This Sausage and Waffle Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or as a make-ahead meal for busy mornings, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. The combination of toasted waffles, savory sausage, and creamy egg custard makes this casserole a mouthwatering, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, here are a few you might enjoy:
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Tater Tot Breakfast Bowl with Sausage Gravy – A delicious breakfast bowl loaded with tater tots and topped with sausage gravy. Perfect for starting your day right.
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Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Cheesy Breadsticks – These cheesy, stuffed breadsticks bring all the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak to your fingertips.
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Keto Sausage Cheddar Biscuits – A low-carb version of a classic biscuit, made with sausage and cheddar for a savory treat that’s keto-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my breakfast casserole soggy?
A soggy breakfast casserole can happen if the bread or waffles you use haven’t been properly toasted. Toasting the waffles before assembling the casserole helps them absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. Additionally, avoid using too much liquid in the egg mixture, as this can also lead to excess moisture. Finally, allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking helps set the dish, ensuring it doesn’t become too wet.
What do you serve with sausage casserole?
Sausage casserole is hearty and filling on its own, but you can serve it with a variety of sides to enhance the meal. Try pairing it with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast, crispy bacon for an extra savory crunch, or scrambled eggs for added protein. You can also serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Does sausage casserole freeze well?
Yes, sausage casserole freezes well and makes for an excellent make-ahead meal. After baking and cooling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and bake it until heated through.
How to cook breakfast casserole?
Cooking a breakfast casserole is simple! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer your toasted waffles or bread, cooked sausage, and cheese in the dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper, then pour this mixture evenly over the layers. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Conclusion
Sausage and Waffle Casserole is the perfect breakfast or brunch dish, offering the ideal balance of savory sausage, crispy waffles, and a creamy egg base. It’s easy to make, can be customized with your favorite ingredients, and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because this casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try today!
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Delicious Sausage and Waffle Casserole for Breakfast
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Sausage and Waffle Casserole is a hearty and delicious breakfast bake made with toasted waffles, crumbled sausage, cheddar cheese, and eggs. Perfect for busy mornings or a family brunch, this easy recipe combines the savory flavor of sausage with the comforting taste of waffles. It’s a satisfying dish that will keep everyone full and happy all day long.
Ingredients
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8 frozen waffles, toasted and cut into bite-sized pieces
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1 pound bulk breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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8 large eggs
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1¼ cups milk
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¼ teaspoon salt
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⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Layer Waffles & Sausage: Place the toasted waffle pieces in the greased baking dish. Top with the crumbled sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
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Mix Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the waffle and sausage mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the casserole is golden brown.
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Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
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You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
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For a more decadent dish, top with a drizzle of maple syrup or hot sauce for added flavor.
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Feel free to swap the sausage for other breakfast meats like bacon or ham, depending on your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: Sausage and Waffle Casserole, Breakfast Casserole, Easy Casserole Recipe, Sausage Breakfast Casserole, Hearty Breakfast Ideas, Waffle Casserole