Egg and Sausage Casserole Recipe

Sausage: Crumbled and cooked, this adds a savory and hearty element to the casserole.

Eggs: Beaten to provide the base and structure of the casserole.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded, it melts beautifully and adds a rich, cheesy flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor profile.

When preparing this egg and sausage casserole, ensure that the sausage is thoroughly cooked and crumbled into small, even pieces. This will allow for a more uniform distribution throughout the casserole, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Additionally, whisk the eggs and milk mixture vigorously to incorporate air, which will result in a lighter, fluffier texture.

• crumbled and cooked sausage - Substitute with crumbled and cooked turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor.

• crumbled and cooked sausage - Substitute with crumbled and cooked tofu sausage: Tofu sausage is a great vegetarian alternative that mimics the texture and can be seasoned similarly.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This mixture acts as a binding agent similar to eggs.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Use ¼ cup of blended silken tofu per egg. It provides a similar texture and moisture content.

• milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy consistency needed for the casserole.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a slight sweetness and richness, making it a good dairy-free substitute.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded vegan cheese: Vegan cheese provides a similar texture and flavor without dairy.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast has a cheesy flavor and can be used to reduce dairy while adding a nutrient boost.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute, offering a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar spiciness but with a slightly different flavor, often described as more earthy.

• black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit more heat and a different flavor profile, making the dish spicier.

• Allow the egg and sausage casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to freeze the casserole, cut it into individual portions. This makes reheating easier and more convenient.

• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• For optimal quality, consume frozen portions within 2-3 months. While they may remain safe to eat beyond this period, the texture and flavor might degrade.

• To reheat refrigerated portions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If you're in a hurry, you can reheat directly from frozen by adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

• Alternatively, microwave reheating is an option. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the casserole multiple times. Reheat only the amount you plan to consume immediately.

• Pair your reheated casserole with a fresh side salad or some steamed vegetables to add a burst of freshness and balance to your meal.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover egg and sausage casserole in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the top get slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 30-second increments until hot.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Cut the casserole into smaller pieces for even heating.
  2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter.
  3. Place the casserole pieces in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the casserole pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check for doneness and add a couple more minutes if necessary.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper together.

• Whisk: Helps in beating the eggs and mixing them thoroughly with the milk and seasonings.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the milk and cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper precisely.

• Skillet: Needed to cook and crumble the sausage before adding it to the mixture.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring in the cooked sausage and cheese into the egg mixture.

• Baking dish: The container in which the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and removing it once baked.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool evenly for a few minutes before serving.

Pre-cook the sausage: Cook the sausage ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly add it to the casserole mixture without waiting.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Mix ingredients in advance: Combine the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper the night before. Store the mixture in the fridge and just add the sausage and cheese before baking.

Grease the dish ahead: Grease your baking dish in advance to save a step when you’re ready to assemble the casserole.