5-Ingredient Overnight Breakfast Casserole – The Easiest Brunch You’ll Ever Make
If there’s one recipe that guarantees a stress-free morning and fills your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of comfort, it’s this 5-Ingredient Overnight Breakfast Casserole. Perfectly layered with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melty cheese over a foundation of soft bread, this make-ahead breakfast is your golden ticket to an effortless morning. Whether you’re hosting a cozy weekend brunch, prepping for a busy weekday, or feeding a houseful of holiday guests, this simple yet satisfying dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
The magic lies in its simplicity—five everyday ingredients, minimal prep, and an overnight chill that lets the flavors mingle beautifully while you sleep. Come morning, just pop it in the oven and enjoy the aroma of warm baked goodness wafting through your home. It’s the kind of recipe that turns ordinary mornings into something special without a hint of stress.
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of sandwich bread, cubed (day-old bread works best)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional but recommended)
Instructions:
- Prepare the base: Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Add the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
- Add the sausage: Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage over the bread cubes, ensuring even distribution for every bite.
- Layer the cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the sausage layer, letting it fall naturally into the nooks and crannies.
- Mix the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and soak: Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Press gently with the back of a spoon to ensure all bread pieces are soaked.
- Cover and chill: Tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) to let the flavors meld.
- Bake in the morning: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge, uncover, and bake for 40–45 minutes or until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of fruit or coffee for a complete breakfast.
Tips & Tricks
- Use day-old bread—it absorbs the egg mixture beautifully and prevents a soggy bottom.
- Mix up the cheese! Sharp cheddar adds punch, while mozzarella gives that gooey stretch.
- Make it vegetarian by skipping the sausage and adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Double the recipe for larger crowds or to ensure leftovers (they taste even better the next day!).
5-Ingredient Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add cubed bread to create the base layer.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage evenly over the bread.
- Add shredded cheese over the sausage.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour egg mixture evenly over casserole layers, pressing down slightly.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
Variations
- Southwest Twist: Add diced green chiles, pepper jack cheese, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
- Ham & Swiss Version: Substitute sausage with diced ham and use Swiss cheese for a smoky, nutty flavor.
- Veggie Lover’s Delight: Incorporate onions, spinach, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh and colorful bake.
- Everything Bagel Style: Use bagel cubes instead of bread and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- A side of fresh fruit salad or citrus wedges for brightness.
- A drizzle of hot sauce or a spoonful of salsa for a zesty kick.
- Warm biscuits, croissants, or a simple green salad to round out your brunch table.
- For a festive brunch, serve it alongside mimosas or coffee topped with frothy milk.
Storage Information
Leftovers store beautifully! Simply let the casserole cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven for about 15–20 minutes. You can also freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat until warmed through.
FAQ
Can I assemble this in the morning instead of overnight?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can let it rest for at least one hour before baking. The overnight rest just deepens the flavor and texture.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely. French bread, brioche, or even leftover rolls work perfectly. Just avoid super soft sandwich loaves as they can turn mushy.
Can I add veggies or other meats?
Of course! This casserole is incredibly forgiving—add cooked bacon, diced ham, sautéed peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Do I have to bake it right away after removing from the fridge?
It’s best to let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking so it heats evenly in the oven.
History / Fun Facts
Breakfast casseroles have been a part of American home cooking since the mid-20th century when home cooks looked for convenient ways to feed families quickly. They became especially popular in the 1970s and 1980s during the rise of make-ahead entertaining. The overnight casserole—a genius blend of practicality and comfort—was born from that era of resourceful homemaking. This version, with its five simple ingredients, celebrates that heritage while embracing today’s need for simplicity and flavor.
What makes this dish timeless is how it brings people together. There’s something heartwarming about waking up to the smell of baked eggs, cheese, and sausage filling your kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that starts conversations and memories—especially around holidays, lazy Sundays, or busy back-to-school mornings.
In a world full of complicated recipes, this 5-Ingredient Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a humble reminder that sometimes, less truly is more.
