Savory Brie and Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Indulge in a delightful combination of creamy Brie cheese and seasoned sausage layered between fluffy white bread in this Savory Brie and Sausage Breakfast Casserole. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this mouthwatering dish is ideal for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or any special occasion. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite in your household. Prepare it the night before for easy, stress-free entertaining the next day!
N/A
Servings
380
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Brie cheese
8 ounces (Trimmed and cubed)
Ground hot pork sausage
1 lb (Cooked and drained)
White bread
6 slices (Crusts removed)
Grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup (For layering)
Large eggs
7 (Divided: 5 for the main mixture and 2 for topping)
Whipping cream
3 cups (Divided: 2 cups for the main mixture and 1 cup for topping)
Nonfat milk
2 cups (For mixing)
Dried sage
1 teaspoon (For flavoring)
Dry mustard
1 teaspoon (For flavoring)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Begin by trimming and discarding the rind from the top of the Brie cheese. Cut the cheese into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
3
In a large skillet, cook the ground hot pork sausage over medium-high heat while stirring until it is evenly crumbled and no longer pink. Drain the cooked sausage to remove excess fat.
4
Prepare a 13x9 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. Remove the crusts from the white bread slices and arrange the crusts evenly across the bottom of the dish.
5
Layer the bread with the cooked sausage, Brie cubes, and grated Parmesan cheese, spreading everything evenly.
6
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 5 of the eggs, 2 cups of the whipping cream, dried sage, and dry mustard until well combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
7
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight for enhanced flavor.
8
Before baking, whisk together the remaining 2 eggs and 1 cup of whipping cream in a bowl. Pour this mixture evenly over the chilled casserole.
9
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the casserole is puffed, golden, and set in the center.
10
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.
Nutrition Information
30g
Fat
22g
Carbs
16g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Brie and Sausage Breakfast Casserole?
It is a rich, indulgent brunch dish featuring creamy Brie cheese, seasoned hot pork sausage, and white bread in a savory custard.
Can I use mild sausage instead of hot pork sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the hot sausage with mild or sweet pork sausage if you prefer a less spicy flavor profile.
How do I prepare the Brie cheese for this recipe?
You should trim and discard the rind from the top of the cheese, then cut the Brie into bite-sized cubes.
What type of bread is recommended for this casserole?
The recipe calls for fluffy white bread slices with the crusts removed for the best texture.
How are the bread crusts used in the dish?
After removing the crusts from the bread, you arrange them evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish to form a base layer.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative or sautéed mushrooms.
Is this breakfast casserole keto-friendly?
No, this recipe contains white bread and is not considered keto-friendly.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
The casserole needs to bake for approximately 1 hour in a preheated oven.
Can I bake the casserole immediately after assembly?
It is highly recommended to refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 8 hours to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
What size baking dish is required?
A standard 13x9 inch baking dish is the appropriate size for this recipe.
How many eggs are required in total?
The recipe requires 7 large eggs in total, with 5 used for the main mixture and 2 used for the topping.
Can I use half-and-half instead of whipping cream?
You can use half-and-half, but the casserole will be less rich and creamy than if you used heavy whipping cream.
What is the expected texture of the finished dish?
The finished casserole should be puffed and golden on top with a soft, creamy, and custard-like center.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
The dish is done when it has puffed up, turned golden brown, and is set in the center.
Can I freeze leftover portions?
Yes, once the casserole has cooled completely, it can be frozen in an airtight container.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, sautéed spinach, peppers, or onions can be layered with the sausage and cheese for added flavor.
What are some suggested side dishes?
This rich dish pairs well with light sides like fresh fruit, a crisp green salad, or roasted tomatoes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Why does the recipe require overnight refrigeration?
Refrigeration allows the bread to soak up the egg and cream mixture, which creates a more uniform and fluffy texture.
Can I substitute the Brie with a different cheese?
Camembert is a great substitute for Brie, or you could use a mild Fontina for a different flavor.
What is the calorie count for a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 380 calories.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply replace the white bread slices with your favorite gluten-free white bread.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake them in two separate 13x9 inch dishes simultaneously.
How do I incorporate the nonfat milk?
The nonfat milk should be whisked into the primary egg and cream mixture along with the sage and mustard.
What is the best way to reheat the casserole?
Reheat slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350 degree oven until warmed through.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage crumbles?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage, just ensure it is drained well before adding it to the layers.
Should I use freshly grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended as it melts better and provides a superior flavor compared to canned varieties.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried sage?
Yes, you can use fresh sage; generally, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
Is this a good make-ahead meal for holidays?
Yes, it is an ideal make-ahead dish because it requires an 8-hour chill time, making morning prep very easy.