Sweet and Savory Breakfast

This hearty Pancake Sausage Casserole transforms everyday breakfast ingredients into a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for lazy weekend mornings or holiday celebrations. The combination of fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and cheesy egg custard creates a delicious sweet-savory balance that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I first made this casserole when my in-laws visited unexpectedly, and it was such a hit that it's now our traditional Christmas morning breakfast. The beauty of this dish is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 pre-cooked pancakes either homemade or store-bought for convenience and flavor foundation
• 1 lb breakfast sausage cooked and crumbled adds savory protein balance to the sweet elements
• 6 large eggs creates the custard-like texture that binds everything together
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk adds richness to the custard base
• 1/2 cup heavy cream creates silky smooth texture in the egg mixture
• 1/4 cup maple syrup real maple syrup provides authentic sweetness and depth
• 1 tsp vanilla extract enhances the sweet notes without adding more sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon warm spice that complements both sweet and savory elements
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp cheddar works best for maximum flavor contrast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of butter or cooking spray. This temperature allows for gentle, even cooking of the egg mixture without burning the edges. Using a 9x13-inch dish ensures the perfect depth for your layers.

Create The Foundation Layers

Arrange four pancakes on the bottom of your greased dish, slightly overlapping if needed to cover the surface. Sprinkle evenly with half of your cooked sausage, making sure to distribute it evenly for consistent flavor in every bite. Add half the cheese in an even layer. The bottom layer absorbs the egg mixture and creates a solid base.

Complete The Layers

Add the remaining four pancakes as your second layer, followed by the rest of the sausage and cheese. This layering technique ensures every serving has the perfect ratio of pancake, sausage, and cheese. The top layer of cheese will create a beautiful golden crust during baking.

Prepare The Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until completely blended, then add milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon. Whisk until smooth and well combined. This mixture will transform during baking to create a rich, custard-like texture that binds everything together while adding moisture to the pancakes.

Assemble The Casserole

Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the entire casserole, allowing it to seep between the layers. Gently press down on the pancakes with a spatula to help them absorb the liquid. Make sure all pancake edges are moistened to prevent dry spots.

Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This covered period allows the egg mixture to set without the top browning too quickly. Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Test by inserting a knife in the center it should come out mostly clean.

The first time I made this casserole, I used leftover homemade buttermilk pancakes, and the slight tanginess added an incredible depth of flavor. Now I often make extra pancakes on weekend mornings just to have them ready for this casserole later in the week. My favorite part is how the edges of the pancakes that peek through get slightly crispy during baking.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on your preferences. Try adding a layer of sautéed apples between the pancakes for natural sweetness, or mix in some crumbled bacon along with the sausage for an extra smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. The recipe is forgiving and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Storage And Reheating

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, cover individual portions with a damp paper towel and microwave at 50% power until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes. This prevents the casserole from drying out. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes. The casserole also freezes well cut into individual portions before freezing for quick weekday breakfasts.

Serving Suggestions

While this casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit for a balanced meal. I like to serve it with a simple berry compote made by simmering mixed berries with a touch of maple syrup. For special occasions, set up a topping bar with extra maple syrup, whipped cream, chopped nuts, and fresh berries. This allows guests to customize their servings and makes the meal feel even more special.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, possibly adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What type of pancakes work best for this dish?

Both homemade and store-bought pancakes work well. For homemade, slightly thicker pancakes hold up better in the casserole. If using store-bought, choose regular-sized pancakes rather than thin ones. Day-old pancakes are actually ideal as they absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.

→ Can I substitute the breakfast sausage?

Absolutely! Cooked bacon or ham make excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based breakfast sausage or simply increase the cheese content and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

→ How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife into the center - if it comes out clean without raw egg mixture, it's ready. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a light green salad, or yogurt parfaits. For beverages, coffee, orange juice, or a mimosa complete the breakfast spread. Additional maple syrup or fruit compote can be offered as toppings.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes! Cut leftover casserole into individual portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 15-20 minutes).