Next, I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and begin to layer the casserole. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, I spread half of the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Then, I sprinkle half of the cooked sausage on top, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering process builds flavor and texture, making each bite an absolute delight.
After layering, I pour the egg mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring all of the ingredients are well-coated. I sprinkle the remaining bread cubes, sausage, and cheese on top to create a delicious cheesy crust when it bakes. I cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture. Finally, I bake it in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve experimented with this recipe several times, and one of my favorite tips is to use stale bread instead of fresh! Stale bread tends to hold up better and creates a lovely texture in the casserole. If you don’t have stale bread on hand, just leave fresh bread out overnight to dry out a bit.
Another trick I’ve found is to add a little cream cheese into the mix. It melts beautifully and adds a rich creaminess that elevates the whole dish. I just cut it into small chunks and scatter it in with the other ingredients before baking.
Finally, if you want to spice things up, consider adding some cooked diced jalapeños or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a flavorful twist. Believe me, it’s a game-changer!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I’ve made in the past is cooking the sausage over too high of a heat. This can lead to uneven cooking, where the outside becomes browned while the inside stays undercooked. Instead, medium heat is best to get that beautiful sear without sacrificing taste.
Another blunder is not letting the casserole rest before baking. This step is crucial for allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture, ensuring a delightful texture. Trust me, skipping this may lead to a dry casserole!
I’ve also learned that baking time can vary based on the oven. It’s essential to keep an eye on it! Some ovens may cook faster than others, so I recommend checking it at the 30-minute mark.
Lastly, be cautious not to pack the casserole too tightly. If you overcrowd the pan, it may take longer to cook through, leading to a less-than-ideal breakfast experience. (See the next page below to continue…)