If you are craving a hearty, comforting breakfast that brings together rich sausage, creamy gravy, and cheesy goodness all baked into one delightful dish, this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe will quickly become your go-to morning treat. It combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, tender bread cubes, and melty Cheddar cheese, all layered and baked to perfection, then topped off with a luscious homemade sausage gravy. This recipe is simple enough for a weekday breakfast yet impressive enough to serve on a weekend brunch with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a handful of straightforward ingredients come together to create such bold flavors and a satisfying texture in this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in building the layers of taste and comforting warmth.
- 1 lb sausage: Choose a flavorful breakfast sausage for a hearty, savory base.
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly sharp element that melts beautifully.
- 6 large eggs: Bind the bake together with a rich, custardy texture.
- 1 cup water: Lightens the custard mixture and helps blend the flavors.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture for moistness.
- 2 (2.75-oz) packages sausage gravy mix, divided: Ensures authentic sausage gravy flavor, one packet baked in and the other prepared fresh to serve.
- 6 slices bread, cut into 1-inch cubes: Provides a tender, sponge-like texture that soaks up the egg and sausage flavors.
- 2 Tbsp melted butter: Drizzled over the top bread cubes for a golden, buttery finish.
How to Make Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe
Step 1: Get Started by Preheating the Oven and Cooking Sausage
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. Next, brown your sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, letting those savory flavors develop. Once cooked through, drain the excess grease to keep the bake from becoming too heavy, then spread the sausage evenly in a greased 11×7-inch baking dish. Even distribution helps each bite to capture that delicious meaty goodness.
Step 2: Layer Cheese and Prepare the Egg Mixture
Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese generously over the cooked sausage layer to add a rich, melty cover that will meld into the sausage as it bakes. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, milk, and one packet of the sausage gravy mix until fully combined. This mixture forms the luscious custard that binds the bake and infuses it with that signature sausage gravy flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
Pour your egg mixture over the cheese and sausage layers, allowing it to seep through and around the edges to coat everything evenly. Then, arrange your cubed bread on top in an even layer to catch the custard below. Finally, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the bread cubes to create golden, buttery pockets throughout your bake.
Step 4: Bake Until Set and Perfect
Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures your custard is perfectly set but still tender and moist. Letting it rest for 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors settle and the bake to firm up, making it easier to serve without falling apart.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Sausage Gravy
While your bake is resting, prepare the second package of sausage gravy mix according to the instructions on the package. This freshly made gravy adds a warm, silky, savory topping that complements every bite of the baked casserole beautifully. Serve the gravy on the side or drizzled on top for that glorious finishing touch.
How to Serve Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little fresh garnish breathes life into this already rich dish. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and subtle herbal brightness that contrasts with the creamy, cheesy base.
Side Dishes
This bake is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with crisp fresh fruit or a simple green salad helps balance the richness and adds refreshing contrast. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or robust coffee rounds out the perfect breakfast table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or turn it into breakfast sliders by layering warmed leftovers between toasted English muffins topped with fresh gravy. It’s versatile enough to delight any crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover breakfast bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after a day, making it ideal for quick weekday breakfasts or lunches.
Freezing
Freeze the baked casserole in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor integrity.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the bread regains its crispness. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, though the oven method ensures better texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of regular sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage can be a leaner, lighter option that still provides plenty of flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed since it cooks a bit faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping the Cheddar cheese for a dairy-free alternative and using plant-based milk, you can adapt this recipe. Make sure the sausage gravy mix you choose is also dairy-free or make your own from scratch.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Definitely! Chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach would add freshness, color, and nutrition. Sauté veggies beforehand to remove excess moisture so the bake doesn’t become soggy.
How do I know when the bake is fully cooked?
Insert a knife or toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean without any wet custard, your bake is done. The edges should be slightly golden and the center set but still tender.
What kind of bread works best?
Sturdy white or whole wheat sandwich bread cubes hold up well during baking, soaking up the custard without turning mushy. Avoid very crusty breads as they may not absorb the flavors as evenly.
Final Thoughts
Making this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe is like giving yourself a warm, satisfying hug on a plate. Its rich flavors, gooey cheese, and that irresistible homemade sausage gravy create an unforgettable breakfast experience that’s sure to brighten anyone’s morning. I can’t wait for you to try making it for yourself and share it with people you love.
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Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and comforting Sausage Gravy Breakfast Bake that combines savory sausage, melted cheddar cheese, and a fluffy egg mixture topped with buttery bread cubes. Perfect for a family breakfast or brunch, this casserole bakes to golden perfection and is served with creamy sausage gravy for an indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 1 lb sausage
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup milk
- 1 (2.75-oz) package sausage gravy mix
Other Ingredients
- 6 slices bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- 1 (2.75-oz) package sausage gravy mix (additional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat. Spread the cooked sausage evenly in a lightly greased 11×7-inch baking dish, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sausage.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, milk, and one packet of sausage gravy mix until smooth and well blended. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the cheese layer in the baking dish.
- Add Bread Cubes and Butter: Arrange the bread cubes evenly on top of the egg mixture. Drizzle the melted butter over the bread cubes to help them crisp while baking.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake the casserole uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the eggs are fully set. Allow the bake to stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prepare Sausage Gravy: While the casserole is baking or resting, prepare the additional package of sausage gravy mix according to the package directions. Serve the warm gravy alongside the baked casserole for an extra rich, flavorful complement.
Notes
- Using day-old bread cubes helps them hold texture better after baking.
- You can substitute milk with a milk alternative such as almond or oat milk if preferred.
- Drain excess fat from sausage carefully to avoid a greasy bake.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped green onions or a pinch of black pepper to the egg mixture.
- This dish can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning; increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
