The biscuit breakfast casserole is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines classic breakfast staples—eggs, sausage, cheese, and fluffy biscuits—into one comforting dish. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for countless customizations, which is why it’s a favorite for brunches, holiday mornings, and meal prep enthusiasts.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making a biscuit breakfast casserole, from choosing the right ingredients and preparation techniques to customization options, storage tips, and alternative breakfast ideas.
For those who love homemade biscuits, check out this easy biscuit recipe for a fresher flavor.
What is a Biscuit Breakfast Casserole?
A biscuit breakfast casserole is a savory baked dish made by layering breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, and biscuits in a baking dish. This layered combination is then baked until the biscuits are golden brown and the eggs are fully set. Not only is it easy to assemble, but it’s also a great make-ahead meal.
Why Choose a Biscuit Breakfast Casserole?
This dish is a great way to feed a crowd or prep breakfast in advance, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves warm, comforting meals. The beauty of a biscuit breakfast casserole is that it’s endlessly adaptable. You can mix and match ingredients to fit dietary needs, taste preferences, or whatever you have on hand.
Looking for egg alternatives? Learn more about chia or flaxseed egg substitutes.
Essential Ingredients and Their Variations For Biscuit breakfast casserole
1. Sausage For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- Classic Breakfast Sausage: Pork sausage provides a classic, savory flavor. You can use hot or mild, depending on your preference.
- Turkey Sausage: For a lower-fat option, turkey sausage is a great substitute.
- Plant-Based Sausage: Vegetarian sausage crumbles work well if you’re catering to a meat-free diet.
- Alternative Proteins: Ham, bacon, or even crumbled tofu can be used for different textures and flavors.
2. Eggs For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- Eggs are the binding agent in this recipe, creating a fluffy texture as they bake. For a 9×13-inch dish, you’ll need approximately 10-12 eggs.
- Egg Substitutes: If you’re looking for egg alternatives, try using a mixture of chia or flaxseed, or explore egg substitute products designed for baking.
3. Biscuits
- Canned Biscuits: These are convenient and easy to work with, and you can simply quarter them before adding to the dish.
- Homemade Biscuits: If you prefer a fresher flavor, make a simple biscuit dough from scratch.
- Gluten-Free Biscuits: For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free biscuit mix or make gluten-free biscuits with a 1:1 baking blend.
4. Cheese
- Cheese adds both creaminess and flavor. Cheddar is a popular choice, but other cheeses can be used:
- Pepper Jack: Adds a hint of spice.
- Feta: Creates a tangy twist.
- Smoked Gouda: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Use approximately 1-2 cups of shredded cheese, depending on how cheesy you want it.
For a gluten-free option, explore this gluten-free biscuit mix.
5. Vegetables
- Vegetables are an optional, yet highly recommended addition that brings both flavor and nutrients to the casserole. Some popular choices include:
- Bell Peppers: Red, green, or yellow peppers add sweetness and color.
- Onions: Sautéed onions bring a mild, sweet flavor.
- Spinach or Kale: Adds a touch of green and boosts the nutritional value.
- Mushrooms: Use sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Feel free to mix and match these to create your preferred vegetable blend. A cup or two of diced vegetables works well in a 9×13-inch casserole.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little oil to ensure easy removal after baking.
2: Prepare the Sausage For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- In a medium skillet, cook your sausage over medium heat until it’s fully browned and crumbled. Use a spatula to break up the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
3: Whisk the Eggs For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Optional Additions: For a hint of spice, add a splash of hot sauce, or mix in chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme for extra flavor.
4: Assemble the Layers For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: Start by spreading the cooked sausage evenly over the bottom of your baking dish. Add your choice of chopped vegetables, and then sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture over the ingredients, making sure everything is evenly coated. This will help bind the ingredients together as they bake.
5: Add the Biscuit Topping For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- Place the biscuit dough pieces on top of the casserole. If you’re using canned biscuits, cut each one into quarters for easy placement. Arrange the biscuit pieces evenly across the top of the casserole.
- Brush with Butter: Melt a tablespoon of butter and brush it over the tops of the biscuits. This will add a rich, golden crust.
6: Bake the Casserole For Biscuit breakfast casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the egg mixture is fully set. Test for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Tip: If you notice the biscuits browning too quickly, cover the casserole loosely with foil for the remainder of the baking time.
7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the ingredients set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Customization Options for Your Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
One of the best features of this casserole is how easily it can be adapted. Here are some creative twists on the classic recipe:
1. Vegetarian Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
- Swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or leave it out entirely.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers to make it hearty and nutritious.
2. Southwestern Casserole
- Use chorizo or spicy sausage instead of regular breakfast sausage.
- Add black beans, diced jalapeños, and a combination of cheddar and pepper jack cheese.
- Serve with salsa, sour cream, and chopped cilantro on the side.
3. Meat Lovers’ Casserole
- Combine crumbled bacon, diced ham, and sausage for a protein-packed version.
- Use a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda, for extra richness.
4. Loaded Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
- Layer in diced potatoes or hash browns, and add chopped bell peppers and onions.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh chives for a loaded breakfast casserole that resembles a loaded baked potato.
5. Health-Conscious Casserole
- Use egg whites or an egg substitute to reduce cholesterol.
- Opt for turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage to lower the fat content.
- Replace half of the cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the extra calories.
- Include plenty of vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes, to boost the fiber and vitamin content.
6. Gluten-Free Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
- Use a gluten-free biscuit mix, or make homemade biscuits with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, including sausage, to ensure it’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Make-Ahead, Freezing, and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead Instructions
- To prepare the casserole in advance, follow the recipe instructions up until the baking step.
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
- In the morning, let it sit at room temperature while you preheat the oven, then bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if it’s still cold.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake. Instead, cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before following the original baking instructions.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Once baked, allow any leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze individual servings for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of biscuits?
Absolutely. Canned biscuits are convenient, but homemade biscuits give a fresher taste. You can also use croissant dough for a buttery flavor or gluten-free biscuits for dietary needs.
2. How can I tell if the casserole is fully cooked?
Insert a knife into the center of the casserole; if it comes out clean, the eggs are set, and the casserole is done. The biscuits should be golden brown on top.
3. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, substitute almond milk or another plant-based milk for the dairy milk, and use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes, for an egg-free version, you can try using egg replacer products or a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. Let it sit until it thickens before adding.
5. What other seasonings can I add?
In addition to salt and pepper, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil can be added just before serving for freshness.
Nutritional Information and Healthier Ingredient Options
A standard biscuit breakfast casserole is typically high in protein and calories, but there are ways to make it healthier:
Nutritional Profile of a Typical Serving:
- Calories: Around 400-500 per serving, depending on ingredients.
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams, thanks to the eggs, sausage, and cheese.
- Fat: About 25-30 grams, though this can be reduced by using lower-fat ingredients.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps:
- Use reduced-fat cheese or nutritional yeast as a cheese alternative.
- Opt for turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative instead of pork sausage.
- Consider using whole-grain biscuits or gluten-free biscuits made with a 1:1 baking blend.
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms, to increase fiber and nutrients.
Alternative Breakfast Casserole Ideas
For those who love a warm, comforting breakfast but want to try other dishes, here are some similar breakfast casserole ideas:
1. French Toast Casserole
- A sweet version made with bread, eggs, milk, and cinnamon. Perfect for a holiday morning or weekend brunch.
2. Vegetable and Cheese Frittata
- A lighter option featuring eggs, a variety of vegetables, and cheese. It can be baked in a similar way and served hot or cold.
3. Overnight Oats
- This cold, make-ahead breakfast is ideal for summer. Mix oats with milk and your favorite toppings, then refrigerate overnight.
4. Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
- For a sweet breakfast treat, consider Cinnamon Roll Pancakes that combine classic cinnamon roll flavor with fluffy pancakes.
5. Mini Pancakes
- Another breakfast favorite that’s easy to make ahead. Check out Baby Pancake Recipe for a fun, family-friendly option.
Conclusion
The biscuit breakfast casserole is a perfect blend of convenience and comfort, offering a delicious, customizable breakfast that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re planning a special breakfast for a weekend brunch or preparing a quick, make-ahead meal for the week, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get creative with your ingredients, make it ahead of time, and enjoy a delicious breakfast that’s perfect for any occasion.