Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole is the quintessential dish for transforming any morning into a special occasion. Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of savory breakfast sausage, perfectly mingled with the comforting sweetness of maple syrup, all baked into a golden, custardy delight. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful start that promises warmth and satisfaction with every forkful.
Why This Casserole Becomes an Instant Favorite
What truly elevates this particular recipe is its incredible convenience paired with its crowd-pleasing appeal. It’s the ultimate make-ahead solution for busy mornings, festive holiday brunches, or when you’re hosting a house full of hungry guests. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, let the flavors meld overnight, and then effortlessly bake it the next day, allowing you more time to enjoy your company and less time fussing in the kitchen. While the exact origins of the breakfast casserole as a category might be humble, these comforting, all-in-one baked dishes have become a beloved staple in American kitchens, embodying the spirit of sharing good food and creating cherished memories around the table.
My family and I particularly adore how the Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole masterfully balances hearty, satisfying flavors with just the right touch of sweetness. The combination of fluffy bread, tender, spiced sausage, and that unique, earthy maple sweetness truly sets it apart, making it an irresistible choice for both adults and children alike. Prepare to make this a new breakfast tradition!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage: I usually reach for a good quality bulk breakfast sausage, preferably one with a hint of sage or a slightly sweet profile to complement our “Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole” theme. You could use mild or spicy, depending on your preference, but I find mild works beautifully here, allowing the maple notes to shine. Just ensure it’s removed from its casing if you’re using links.
- 8 cups day-old bread, cubed: This is a crucial element for texture. I prefer using a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or even a good artisan white bread. The day-old part is important because it’s slightly dried out, which helps it absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy. Cut it into roughly 1-inch cubes. If your bread isn’t day-old, you can lightly toast the cubes in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 300°F (150°C) to dry them out a bit.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For sautéing our aromatics. If your sausage renders a lot of fat, you might be able to use a tablespoon of that instead, but butter adds a lovely richness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: The foundation of flavor for many savory dishes, and our casserole is no exception. Dicing it finely ensures it softens and melts into the dish rather than being chunky.
- 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds a beautiful pop of color, a subtle sweetness, and a touch of freshness. You could use green for a more classic savory flavor, but I find red works best with the “sweet” aspect of our casserole.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent aromatic that truly elevates the savory depth of this dish. Don’t be tempted to skip it!
- 10 large eggs: These are the binding heart of our casserole. Large eggs provide the perfect ratio of egg to dairy, ensuring a custardy yet firm texture.
- 1 ½ cups whole milk: Whole milk contributes to the rich, creamy texture of the egg custard. You can use 2% if that’s what you have on hand, but whole milk really makes a difference.
- ½ cup heavy cream: For an extra layer of decadence and an incredibly smooth, luxurious mouthfeel. It truly takes the custard from good to absolutely glorious.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: This is where the “Sweet Maple” in our Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole truly shines! Be sure to use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup or artificial maple flavoring. The real deal provides a complex sweetness and a beautiful aroma that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: A secret ingredient! Don’t worry, it won’t make your casserole taste like mustard. Instead, it acts as a flavor enhancer, adding a subtle tang and depth that brightens the whole dish and complements the savory and sweet notes without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the egg mixture. Remember to taste as you go!
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a wonderful aromatic spice.
- ½ teaspoon dried sage: Sage and breakfast sausage are a match made in heaven. If your sausage already has a strong sage flavor, you can reduce this, but it truly enhances the overall “breakfast” feel.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: I love the robust flavor of sharp cheddar, which stands up well to the richness of the sausage and maple. You could also use a blend like Monterey Jack or a Colby-Jack, or even a smoked gouda for an interesting twist. I always recommend shredding your own cheese from a block for the best melt and flavor.
- Optional garnishes: A sprinkle of fresh chives or finely chopped parsley for color and a fresh finish, or even a drizzle of extra maple syrup right before serving for those who truly love the sweet side.
Preparation of the Components:
My culinary journey with this Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole begins by getting all my ingredients prepped and ready. This is what we call “mise en place” in the cooking world, and it truly makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, having everything measured, chopped, and waiting will make you feel like a pro!
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Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish:
First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature from the moment your casserole goes in, leading to even cooking. While the oven warms up, take out a 9×13-inch baking dish. I like to lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This tiny step is a lifesaver, ensuring that our beautiful casserole releases easily after baking, making serving and cleanup a breeze. There’s nothing worse than a delicious dish sticking to the pan!
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Brown the Breakfast Sausage:
Now, let’s get to the star of our savory component! Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, crumble your pound of breakfast sausage into the pan. Using a wooden spoon or a spatula, break the sausage into small, even pieces as it cooks. You want to achieve a beautiful, golden-brown crust on all sides. This browning isn’t just for color; it’s about developing deep, rich, savory flavors through the Maillard reaction – those irresistible caramelized bits. As the sausage cooks, you’ll notice a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen – that classic breakfast sausage scent that promises a hearty meal.
Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is thoroughly cooked through and no pink remains, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s beautifully browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate. This allows any excess grease to drain away, preventing your casserole from becoming overly oily. We want a rich flavor, not a greasy one! Dispose of the rendered fat in the skillet, leaving just about a tablespoon or so behind if it’s not too much. If there’s barely any fat left, don’t worry, we’ll add butter in the next step.
Tip for Perfectly Browned Sausage:
Don’t overcrowd the pan! If you’re cooking a larger quantity, it’s better to brown the sausage in two batches. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, steaming the sausage instead of browning it, which means less flavor development. Patience here pays off in spades for your Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
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Sauté the Aromatics:
Using the same skillet (that now has all those delicious browned bits from the sausage – what we call “fond”), reduce the heat to medium. If you drained most of the sausage fat, add your tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt. Once melted and shimmering, add your finely diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Stir them frequently, allowing them to soften and become translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice their colors deepen and their natural sugars start to caramelize slightly, adding a lovely sweetness to the base of our dish.
Once the onions and peppers are tender, add your minced garlic to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Burnt garlic can turn bitter very quickly, and we want its aromatic goodness, not a harsh taste. The kitchen will now smell absolutely incredible – a blend of sweet peppers, savory onion, and pungent garlic. This aromatic trifecta is key to the balanced flavor profile of our Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. We’ll be incorporating these flavorful vegetables into our casserole very soon.
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Prepare the Bread Base:
While your sausage and veggies are cooling slightly, let’s turn our attention to the bread. As mentioned in the ingredients, using day-old bread is ideal. If your bread is fresh, a quick toast can mimic the day-old effect. Spread your 1-inch bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and slightly crisp. This step isn’t strictly necessary if your bread is already stale, but it does add an extra layer of texture and ensures the bread stands up well to the wet egg mixture.
Once your bread is ready, transfer the cubes to your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Try to spread them out as evenly as possible to create a uniform base. These bread cubes will be soaking up all the delicious egg and maple goodness, becoming wonderfully soft and custardy on the inside, with a delightful crispy top layer.
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Whisk the Egg Mixture:
This is where the magic really starts to happen, creating the rich, custardy heart of our Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole. In a large mixing bowl, crack your 10 large eggs. Using a whisk, beat them vigorously until the yolks and whites are completely combined and there are no streaks. You want a uniform pale yellow color.
Next, pour in the 1 ½ cups of whole milk and ½ cup of heavy cream. Add the ¼ cup of pure maple syrup – this is the hero ingredient that brings that unique “sweet” dimension. Then, incorporate the 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of dried sage. Whisk everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy on top. I always give it a good minute or two of vigorous whisking to ensure everything is perfectly emulsified and distributed.
Why a Thorough Whisk is Important:
A well-whisked egg mixture ensures consistency. If your eggs aren’t fully combined, you might end up with pockets of egg white or yolk, which affects the texture. The mustard also needs to be fully integrated to lend its subtle flavor-enhancing qualities evenly throughout the casserole.
Take a moment to inhale the aroma of this mixture – you’ll get hints of creamy dairy, the distinctive sweetness of maple, and the comforting spice of sage and pepper. It’s a promise of deliciousness to come!
Assembling Your Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole:
Now that all our components are prepped, it’s time to bring them all together into one glorious dish! This part is truly satisfying, watching all the individual flavors merge into a coherent and mouth-watering ensemble. Remember, even distribution is key here for a balanced bite every time.
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Layering the Bread:
You should already have your bread cubes spread evenly in your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. If not, now’s the time to ensure they form a relatively uniform layer across the bottom of the dish. This bread layer is the foundation, and it will soak up all the delicious liquid, becoming soft and custardy while providing structural integrity to our casserole. Take a moment to gently press down on the bread cubes to compact them slightly. This creates more surface area for absorption and prevents too much empty space.
Why an Even Bread Layer Matters:
An even layer means every slice of your Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole will have a balanced amount of bread, ensuring uniform texture and flavor throughout the dish.
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Adding the Sausage and Sautéed Vegetables:
Next, take your beautifully browned and drained breakfast sausage and sprinkle it evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Try to distribute it so that every part of the casserole gets a good helping of that savory meat. Then, follow with your sautéed yellow onion, red bell pepper, and garlic mixture, spreading them out as uniformly as possible over the sausage layer.
This layering ensures that the savory and aromatic elements are well-integrated throughout the casserole, contributing flavor and texture to every bite. The combination of the rich sausage and the sweet, tender vegetables creates a fantastic contrast with the impending maple sweetness.
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Sprinkling the Cheese:
It’s cheese time! Take your 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sprinkle about 1 ½ cups of it evenly over the sausage and vegetable layers. I like to reserve about ½ cup for the very end of the baking process to get that perfect golden-brown, bubbly top crust. However, if you prefer all the cheese to be melted and integrated from the start, you can add all 2 cups now. The cheese will melt down, creating delicious pockets of gooey goodness and adding a salty, tangy counterpoint to the sweet and savory notes.
Choosing Your Cheese:
While sharp cheddar is my go-to for its robust flavor, don’t hesitate to experiment with what you love. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheddar could add interesting dimensions to your Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
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Pouring the Egg Mixture:
This is the moment everything truly comes together! Carefully and slowly pour your perfectly whisked egg, milk, cream, and maple syrup mixture evenly over all the layers in the baking dish. Take your time to ensure that every bread cube and every nook and cranny gets thoroughly saturated with this rich liquid. You might even want to gently press down on the bread cubes again with the back of a spoon or a spatula to help them absorb the liquid, especially if some are floating. The goal is for the bread to drink up as much of that delicious custard as possible.
Once you’ve poured it all in, let the casserole sit for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature before baking. Better yet, if you’re making this ahead (which I highly recommend for ease on a busy morning!), cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This soaking time is crucial! It allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a wonderfully custardy texture rather than dry, unsoaked spots. It’s what transforms simple ingredients into a truly cohesive and moist Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole.
Make-Ahead Magic:
This casserole is a make-ahead superstar! Assembling it the night before means all the flavors meld beautifully, and the bread gets ample time to soak. In the morning, all you have to do is pull it from the fridge and pop it into the oven. Just be sure to let it sit out for about 30 minutes on the counter to come closer to room temperature before baking if refrigerating overnight.
Baking and Serving:
The moment of truth is upon us! Baking this Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a two-stage process that ensures it’s cooked through perfectly while achieving a beautiful golden-brown top. The aromas filling your kitchen during this phase will be absolutely intoxicating!
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Initial Bake (Covered):
Once your casserole has had its essential soaking time (either 15-20 minutes at room temperature or after being removed from the fridge), it’s ready for the oven. Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This first stage of baking, with the foil on, is vital for ensuring that the casserole cooks evenly and that the bread and egg mixture set without drying out or browning too quickly on top. The foil creates a steamy environment, helping the custard to cook through gently and become wonderfully tender.
Place the covered dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature of the casserole will rise, and the egg mixture will begin to firm up around the bread, sausage, and vegetables. You might even hear a gentle sizzle or see the edges bubbling slightly – that’s a good sign!
Why Cover During Initial Bake:
Preventing a dry or burnt top layer! The foil traps moisture, allowing the internal components to cook thoroughly and the bread to fully soften and absorb the egg mixture without drying out before the center is set.
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Final Bake (Uncovered) and Cheese Finish:
After the initial covered bake, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Remove the aluminum foil. At this point, the casserole should be mostly set but likely still pale on top. Now, remember that ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese we reserved earlier? This is its moment to shine! Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful, bubbly, golden-brown crust that adds another layer of texture and flavor.
Return the uncovered casserole to the oven and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center of the casserole comes out clean. If you have an instant-read thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure the eggs are fully cooked. Keep a close eye on it during this final stage to prevent over-browning. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil again.
The aroma during this stage is truly irresistible – a delightful blend of savory sausage, sweet maple, and toasted cheese. It’s the perfect fragrance to wake up your household on a weekend morning, promising a delicious “Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole” experience.
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Rest and Garnish:
Once your casserole is beautifully golden and fully cooked, carefully remove it from the oven. This next step is crucial for perfection: allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. I know it’s tempting to dig in immediately, but resting allows the custard to fully set and the internal juices to redistribute. This results in cleaner slices and a more cohesive, less watery casserole.
During this resting period, you can prepare your optional garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh chives or finely chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich flavors of the casserole. For those who adore the maple sweetness, a final drizzle of pure maple syrup over individual servings is an absolute delight.
Slice the Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole into squares and serve warm. It’s absolutely fantastic on its own, but also pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a brunch setting. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – a truly satisfying, sweet and savory breakfast masterpiece!
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a relaxed family breakfast, a special holiday brunch, or even as a make-ahead option for busy weekdays. The balance of sweet maple and savory sausage is truly addictive, and it reheats beautifully in individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion:
Well, we’ve reached the sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying end of our journey through what I truly believe is a breakfast masterpiece. If you’ve been searching for that one dish that effortlessly combines comfort, flavor, and convenience, then allow me to reiterate why this particular casserole is an absolute game-changer. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful morning symphony that transforms ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary occasion. I’ve seen countless smiles light up around my table when this golden-brown beauty makes its appearance, and I can almost guarantee it will have the same effect on your loved ones.
Why This Recipe Is an Absolute Must-Try:
First and foremost, the flavor profile of this dish is simply unparalleled. We’re talking about that perfect marriage of salty, savory sausage with the comforting sweetness of pure maple syrup, all nestled in a custardy egg base and softened bread. It’s a harmonious balance that avoids being overly sweet or too rich, striking just the right chord for a morning meal. The texture is equally divine – a slightly crisp top yielding to a tender, fluffy interior that practically melts in your mouth. Beyond its incredible taste, its true superpower lies in its make-ahead potential. Imagine waking up on a busy holiday morning or a lazy Sunday, knowing that the most challenging part of breakfast is simply preheating the oven. That’s the magic right there! This Sweet Maple Sausage Breakfast Casserole frees you up to enjoy those precious moments with family and friends, rather than being stuck in the kitchen. It scales beautifully too, making it ideal for intimate family gatherings or a bustling brunch party. It’s robust enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, yet refined enough to feel special and indulgent.
Elevate Your Experience: Serving Suggestions & Creative Variations
While this casserole is undeniably phenomenal on its own, there are so many ways to customize and enhance your dining experience. For a classic spread, I always recommend serving it alongside a vibrant fresh fruit salad – think seasonal berries, sliced kiwi, or a medley of melon. The bright, tangy notes of the fruit provide a wonderful contrast to the casserole’s richness. A tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a steaming mug of your favorite coffee are, of course, essential companions. For an extra touch of indulgence, a light drizzle of warm maple syrup right before serving can elevate the sweetness even further, or a dusting of powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy.
But let’s talk variations! This recipe is incredibly forgiving and truly invites your personal touch. Feeling cheesy? Stir in a cup of shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked Gouda with the eggs for an extra layer of savory goodness. If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce mixed into the egg mixture will give it a delightful kick. Vegetable lovers can easily incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms – just be sure to cook them down first to remove excess moisture. For a different protein, diced ham, cooked bacon bits, or even a vegetarian sausage substitute can be swapped in. And don’t shy away from experimenting with different breads: challah or brioche will yield an even softer, richer texture, while a good quality sourdough could add a pleasant tang. You could even bake this recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for charming, portion-controlled servings, perfect for a buffet-style brunch. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible dish to your specific tastes and dietary needs.
Your Turn to Create and Share!
Now that you have all the tools and inspiration, I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just food; it’s an invitation to create lasting memories around your breakfast table. I truly believe that once you experience the ease and deliciousness of this casserole, it will become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make it your own, and infuse it with your unique flair. I would absolutely love to hear about your experiences! Did you add a special ingredient? Did it become the star of your holiday brunch? Please share your stories, your photos, and any creative twists you discovered in your kitchen. Your feedback inspires me, and I can’t wait to see how you make this breakfast masterpiece shine!
Sweet Maple Beef Sausage Breakfast Casserole
This Sweet Maple Beef Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for special mornings, holiday brunches, or make-ahead meals. It features savory beef breakfast sausage, fluffy bread, eggs, milk, and the sweet warmth of maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all baked to a golden, custardy delight with a savory cheddar crust.
Ingredients
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1 lb beef breakfast sausage
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8 cups day-old bread, cubed
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
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1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
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1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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6 large eggs
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2 cups milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg
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1/2 cup pure maple syrup
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Step 2
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb beef breakfast sausage until no pink remains. Drain excess fat and transfer sausage to a plate. -
Step 3
In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté diced yellow onion and red bell pepper for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat. -
Step 4
Spread 8 cups cubed day-old bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. If fresh, lightly toast bread cubes for 10-15 minutes at 300°F (150°C) to dry them out. -
Step 5
In a large bowl, whisk 6 large eggs until combined. Add 2 cups milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth. -
Step 6
Layer the cooked beef sausage and sautéed vegetables evenly over the bread. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese over the layers, reserving 1/2 cup. Pour the whisked egg mixture evenly over all ingredients, ensuring bread is saturated. -
Step 7
Let casserole sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or cover tightly and refrigerate overnight for best flavor and texture. If refrigerated, let sit on counter for 30 minutes before baking. -
Step 8
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes in the preheated oven. -
Step 9
Remove foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes, or until golden brown, bubbly, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean (internal temperature reaches 160°F / 71°C). -
Step 10
Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, or an extra drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
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