Kick-start your day with this delicious and easy-to-prepare breakfast casserole featuring flaky Pillsbury biscuits, savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for holiday brunches, weekend gatherings, or a simple weekday meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a satisfying breakfast casserole ready to enjoy in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Layers of Pillsbury biscuits, eggs, sausage, and cheese for a crowd-pleasing breakfast
- Can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for convenience
- Serves 8 people and takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook
- Customizable with your favorite fillings and add-ins
- Ideal for holidays, brunch, potlucks, or any special occasion
Why This Breakfast Casserole Is Perfect for Any Morning
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply craving a hearty breakfast, this easy breakfast casserole with biscuits recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. With its time-saving benefits, make-ahead versatility, and irresistible flavor, it’s the ultimate solution for busy mornings or special occasions.
Time-Saving Benefits
This breakfast casserole is a true time-saver, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply bake it off in the morning. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go, making it the perfect choice for hectic weekdays or lazy weekends.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
Packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, this easy breakfast casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a brunch for a group, this make-ahead casserole is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Make-Ahead Options
One of the best features of this breakfast casserole is its versatility. You can easily assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight, then simply bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions for a quick and easy breakfast option on busy mornings.
Essential Ingredients for Your Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits
Crafting a delectable breakfast casserole with Grands! Biscuits is a breeze when you have the right ingredients on hand. At the heart of this recipe are four essential components: canned biscuits, ground Jimmy Dean sausage, eggs, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
To bring this casserole to life, you’ll need two cans of Grands! Biscuits, one pound of Jimmy Dean precooked sausage crumbles, 12 large eggs, and 1/2 cup each of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Season the dish with a dash of salt and pepper to taste.
For those who enjoy a bit more texture and flavor, consider adding diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms as optional mix-ins. These extra ingredients can elevate the overall taste and presentation of your breakfast masterpiece.
The beauty of this breakfast casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. With these essential ingredients, you can create a satisfying and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any morning, whether you’re hosting a brunch or feeding your family a hearty start to the day.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To prepare the delightful Easy Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools and equipment. First and foremost, a 9×13 baking dish is the perfect size for this recipe, as it can comfortably accommodate all the ingredients. Additionally, a whisk will come in handy for efficiently beating the eggs before incorporating them into the casserole.
If your recipe calls for raw breakfast sausage, you’ll also want to have a skillet on hand to cook the sausage before assembling the casserole. Lastly, consider covering the casserole with aluminum foil if you’re planning to make it ahead of time or if the top starts to brown too quickly during baking.
Recommended Baking Dish Size
For this Easy Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits recipe, a 9×13 baking dish is the ideal size. This larger dish ensures that all the ingredients have enough room to spread out and bake evenly, resulting in a beautifully presented and delicious casserole.
Additional Helpful Tools
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for beating the eggs thoroughly before adding them to the casserole.
- Skillet: If your recipe calls for raw breakfast sausage, you’ll need a skillet to cook it before assembling the casserole.
- Aluminum Foil: Covering the casserole with foil can help prevent the top from browning too quickly, especially if you’re making it ahead of time.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9×13 Baking Dish | Provides the ideal size and shape for baking the casserole |
| Whisk | Used for thoroughly beating the eggs before adding them to the casserole |
| Skillet | Utilized to cook the breakfast sausage, if the recipe calls for raw sausage |
| Aluminum Foil | Helps prevent the top of the casserole from browning too quickly, especially when making it ahead of time |
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Preparing this delightful breakfast casserole with biscuits is a straightforward process that yields a delicious and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to get your kitchen humming with the aroma of layered biscuits, cooked sausage, and whisked eggs.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s crumbled and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Arrange the refrigerated biscuit dough in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, gently pressing them together to form the base.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage and 1 cup of shredded cheese over the biscuit layer.
- Carefully pour the egg mixture over the sausage and cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving, then cut into squares and enjoy!
By following these straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole with fluffy biscuits, savory sausage, and a creamy egg custard. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch.
Tips for Working with Refrigerated Biscuits
When preparing a delightful breakfast casserole with Pillsbury biscuits, a few key tips can make all the difference. First and foremost, it’s essential to press the biscuit dough firmly to seal and create a solid bottom crust. This step helps prevent a soggy base and ensures the casserole holds together beautifully. Additionally, you may need to halve some of the biscuits to ensure they fit snugly in the baking dish.
Proper Biscuit Layering Technique
For a homemade biscuit dough, it’s a good idea to partially cook the biscuits before adding the other ingredients to the casserole. This step ensures the biscuit layer is cooked through, preventing a raw or doughy texture in the final dish.
Preventing Soggy Bottom Crust
To avoid a soggy bottom crust, consider blind baking the biscuit layer for a few minutes before adding the other casserole components. This simple technique helps create a crisp, golden-brown foundation that can withstand the moisture of the filling without becoming soggy.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bacon | 6 slices |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Ranch Dressing Mix | 1 packet |
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Refrigerated Biscuits | 10 (from two 5-count, 6-oz cans) |
Cheese and Sausage Selection Guide
When crafting the perfect breakfast casserole with biscuits, the cheese and sausage selections play a crucial role in achieving the desired flavors and textures. For optimal results, we recommend using a combination of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Mozzarella cheese is known for its excellent melting properties, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency throughout the casserole. Cheddar cheese, on the other hand, adds a delightful sharpness and richness that perfectly complements the other ingredients. By blending these two cheeses, you’ll create a harmonious flavor profile that will delight your taste buds.
As for the sausage, we suggest using Jimmy Dean precooked sausage crumbles. This convenient option saves time and ensures a perfectly seasoned and cooked sausage component in your casserole. If you prefer, you can also use 1 cup of any crumbled cooked sausage, such as mild Italian sausage, which also makes a fantastic choice.
| Ingredient | Recommended Quantity | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 1 cup | Excellent melting properties for a creamy texture |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup | Adds a delicious sharpness and richness to the casserole |
| Breakfast Sausage Crumbles | 1 cup | Precooked for convenience and optimal seasoning |
By carefully selecting the right cheese and sausage combination, you’ll create a breakfast casserole that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor in every bite.
Customizing Your Casserole with Add-ins
One of the best things about this Easy Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the dish by incorporating a variety of tasty add-ins to suit your preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for some extra veggies, seeking a meatier twist, or craving a cheese-lover’s delight, this casserole offers endless possibilities.
Vegetable Options
For a nutritious boost, consider sautéing some onions, green onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms before adding them to the casserole. Sautéing the vegetables first helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a perfectly cooked and flavorful final dish.
Meat Alternatives
If you prefer a meatier casserole, you can swap in bacon or try a vegetarian sausage alternative like soyrizo. These protein-packed additions will satisfy your cravings and provide a delicious contrast to the fluffy biscuits.
Cheese Combinations
Experiment with different cheese varieties to create your perfect cheese-lover’s casserole. Try a blend of Colby jack or sharp cheddar for a classic flavor, or mix in some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing the cheese in this versatile breakfast dish.
Remember, the key to a successful customized casserole is balancing the flavors and ensuring the add-ins complement the overall dish. Start with small quantities of your chosen ingredients and adjust to your taste. Enjoy experimenting and creating your perfect breakfast masterpiece!
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
One of the best things about this easy breakfast casserole with biscuits is that it makes fantastic leftovers. Whether you have a few extra servings or prepare the casserole ahead of time, proper storage and reheating techniques can help you enjoy this delicious dish for days to come.
For leftovers, simply store the cooled casserole in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can easily reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through.
If you’d like to get an even further head start, you can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up in the oven or microwave.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months |
By following these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can savor the flavors of this delectable breakfast casserole long after the initial baking. Enjoy your leftovers with ease, whether you choose to keep them in the refrigerator or freezer.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This delectable Easy Breakfast Casserole with Biscuits is not only a crowd-pleasing delight but also a nutritionally balanced meal. Each serving packs a powerful punch of essential nutrients to fuel your day.
Calorie Breakdown
A single serving of this casserole clocks in at 226 calories, with a macronutrient breakdown of 15g of protein, 4g of carbohydrates, and 16g of fat. The total fat content accounts for 16g per serving, or 21.5% of the total calories.
Dietary Considerations
- Protein-packed: Each serving provides a substantial 15g of protein, making this dish an excellent choice for those seeking to increase their daily protein intake.
- Carbohydrate-conscious: With only 4g of carbohydrates per serving, this casserole is a great option for those following low-carb or keto-friendly diets.
- Cholesterol-friendly: The recipe contains 189mg of cholesterol per serving, which falls within the recommended daily intake for most individuals.
- Sodium-aware: At 470mg of sodium per serving, this dish can be easily accommodated into a heart-healthy diet with some minor adjustments.
It’s important to note that the nutritional information may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. Always be sure to double-check the labels of your chosen ingredients to ensure the most accurate calculations.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Instructions
This overnight casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly freezer-friendly. Whether you’re short on time or simply want to get a head start, this recipe offers convenient make-ahead and freezing options to suit your needs.
To make this casserole in advance, simply assemble it through step 4, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 20-30 minutes before popping it in the oven. You may need to increase the baking time slightly, but the end result will be just as tasty.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or place in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven.
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Chilling Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 30 minutes | 55 minutes | 12 |
With these make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, you can enjoy this delicious overnight casserole anytime, whether you’re preparing for a crowd or just want a quick and easy breakfast on hand.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once you’ve prepared your delectable breakfast casserole with light and flaky biscuits, it’s time to consider the perfect accompaniments to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a relaxed weekend brunch or a busy weekday breakfast, there are plenty of tasty sides that will complement the casserole beautifully.
For a balanced and nutritious plate, consider pairing your casserole with fresh fruit, such as berries, melon, or a light fruit salad. Yogurt, either plain or topped with granola, is another great option that adds a creamy and tangy element. A simple green salad with a light dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
If you’re looking to amp up the heartiness of the meal, you can’t go wrong with classic breakfast sides like hash browns, sausage, bacon, or even a selection of roasted vegetables. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving your casserole with biscuits, cinnamon rolls, or a quick bread like banana bread or zucchini bread.
No matter what you choose, the key is to create a balanced and visually appealing spread that allows your guests to customize their plates to their liking. Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch or a fancy breakfast buffet, these serving suggestions and pairings will ensure your breakfast casserole with biscuits is the star of the show.
Suggested Breakfast Sides and Pairings
- Fresh fruit (berries, melon, fruit salad)
- Yogurt (plain or with granola)
- Light green salad
- Hash browns
- Sausage, bacon, or other breakfast meats
- Roasted vegetables
- Biscuits, cinnamon rolls, or quick breads
- Avocado toast
- Breakfast potatoes or home fries
- Scrambled or fried eggs
By offering a variety of breakfast sides and pairings, you can create a truly impressive and satisfying brunch spread that will have your guests coming back for more. Bon appétit!
Common Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The Biscuits and Gravy Casserole offers a versatile base that can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences and tastes. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and incorporate more vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and non-dairy milk.
Those seeking a healthier twist can substitute whole wheat biscuits for a boost of fiber and nutrients. Alternatively, reduce the number of biscuits and increase the egg and vegetable content for a lower-carb option. Spice enthusiasts can add a kick of flavor by incorporating hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or using a spicy sausage variety.
The recipe is also easily customizable for those with specific dietary restrictions. Gluten-free biscuit dough can be used to accommodate a gluten-free diet, while bacon or ham can be swapped in for the sausage for a pork-free version. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this versatile casserole to your individual preferences and dietary needs.
