Breakfast Casserole Recipe for 30 People: Easy and Delicious

Hosting a large brunch or gathering? This breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for serving 30 people with minimal fuss. It combines hearty ingredients like eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread into a baked dish that can be prepared ahead of time and easily scaled for big groups.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 3 large onions, diced
• 3 bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
• 2 pounds sliced bread (white, whole wheat, or a mix), cubed
• 24 large eggs
• 4 cups whole milk
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional for added flavor)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large 9×13-inch baking dish or a deep roasting pan suitable for 30 servings.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme until well combined.
5. Layer the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Distribute the cooked sausage, onions, and peppers over the bread.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the layered ingredients.
7. Pour the egg mixture over the entire dish, ensuring all bread cubes are soaked. Press down lightly with a spatula if needed to help the bread absorb the liquid.
8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard.
9. Remove the casserole from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use cooked bacon or ham instead of sausage for variety. For a vegetarian version, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
• Storage: Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Freeze individual portions for longer storage, reheating in the microwave.
• Common mistakes: Not soaking the bread sufficiently can result in a dry casserole. Ensure the egg mixture is evenly distributed and the bread is well-soaked.
• Scaling: To serve more or fewer people, adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. For example, halve the recipe for 15 servings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or melon slices, and perhaps some toasted muffins or bagels. A simple green salad with vinaigrette can also complement the rich flavors.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace sausage with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms, and add extra cheese for richness.
• Healthy twist: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. Incorporate more vegetables or whole grain bread for added fiber.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy version.
• Breakfast hash style: Top with cooked hash browns or roasted potatoes before baking for added texture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover breakfast casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cut into portions and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes. To freeze, wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, preparing the casserole the night before is ideal. After assembling, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Bake it the next morning for a quick, delicious breakfast.

What if I don’t have enough bread?

Using fewer bread cubes will make the casserole less hearty but still tasty. To compensate, add more eggs or cheese, or include additional vegetables to maintain the dish’s richness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or omit it altogether by adding extra vegetables or cooked potatoes for bulk. Ensure your sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. It should be puffed and set, not runny.

What are some good sides to serve with this casserole?

Fresh fruit, such as berries or melon, toasted bread or muffins, and a light green salad work well to balance the meal. Coffee and juice are classic beverages to serve alongside.

Is it suitable for dietary restrictions?

This recipe can be adapted for dietary needs—use plant-based sausage and dairy-free cheese for vegan options, or low-sodium ingredients for those watching salt intake.

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