Breakfast Casserole Recipe for 40 People: Easy & Delicious

Hosting a large breakfast or brunch? This breakfast casserole recipe is perfect for feeding 40 people with minimal fuss. It’s a hearty, make-ahead dish that combines eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread, making it ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or family celebrations. Its versatility allows for easy substitutions and it can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your event.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), cooked and crumbled
• 4 large loaves of bread (thick-sliced bread like Texas toast or brioche), cubed
• 4 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 3 dozen large eggs (about 36 eggs)
• 4 quarts whole milk or half-and-half
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Optional: 1 cup chopped bell peppers or cooked spinach for added flavor and nutrition

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 2 large roasting pans or several large baking dishes that can accommodate the casserole.
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3. Cube the bread into bite-sized pieces. If using stale bread, it will absorb the custard better. Spread the bread evenly in the prepared baking dishes.
4. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread cubes. Follow with a generous layer of shredded cheese.
5. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese layers. Press down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.
7. Cover the dishes tightly with aluminum foil. For best results, refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and bread to soak up the custard.
8. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden brown around the edges.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Slice and serve warm.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use cooked bacon or ham instead of sausage for different flavor profiles. Whole wheat or gluten-free bread can be used for dietary needs.
• Make ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. It can be baked directly from the fridge, but add extra baking time (about 10-15 minutes).
• Prevent sogginess: Ensure the bread is somewhat stale or toasted before assembling to absorb less liquid, which helps maintain a firm texture.
• Cheese options: Mix different cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack to add variety and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the breakfast casserole with fresh fruit, such as sliced melons, berries, or a fruit salad. Complement with toasted bagels, muffins, or English muffins for a more substantial spread. Providing hot sauce, ketchup, or salsa can add a flavorful kick for those who like spice.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also swap the cheese for vegan cheese if needed. For a southwestern flair, add chopped green chilies, cumin, and cilantro. To make it more brunch-style, serve with a side of crispy hash browns or roasted breakfast potatoes.

Storage and Reheating

If made ahead, store leftovers tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cut into portions and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For best results, reheat until steaming hot and the cheese is bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Baking time may need to be increased slightly if it’s cold from the fridge—about 10-15 minutes extra.

How do I scale this recipe for a smaller group?

To serve fewer people, simply reduce the quantities proportionally. For example, halving the ingredients will serve around 20 people. Use a smaller baking dish accordingly and adjust baking time as needed.

What if I don’t have enough baking dishes?

You can bake the casserole in multiple smaller dishes or in a large hotel pan. If you only have one dish, bake in two batches, or prepare a smaller version in a standard 9×13-inch dish for fewer servings.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, leftovers freeze well. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut into portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What makes this casserole suitable for large gatherings?

This recipe is designed to be made in large quantities, using multiple pans and ingredients that can be prepared ahead of time. Its hearty nature and make-ahead convenience make it ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort on the day of your event.

Can I add fresh herbs or spices?

Yes, adding chopped parsley, chives, or a pinch of paprika can enhance flavor. Add fresh herbs just before baking or sprinkle on top after baking for a burst of color and freshness.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

It can be adapted by choosing gluten-free bread and verifying that sausage and other ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure all components meet dietary restrictions.

Related

• Coconut Yogurt Pumpkin Bread Recipe for Moist, Healthy Loaf
• Coconut Yogurt Zucchini Bread Recipe for Moist, Healthy Baking
• Coconut Yogurt Almond Flour Bread Recipe for Healthy Baking