![- Whole grain bread and its role Whole grain bread gives the dish texture and fiber. The cubes soak up the egg mixture, making each bite soft and tasty. You can use any whole grain bread you like. Sourdough or multigrain also works well. - Breakfast sausage options I recommend using a pound of crumbled breakfast sausage. You can choose pork, turkey, or chicken. Each adds a different flavor. If you prefer a bit of spice, opt for hot sausage. It will bring warmth to the casserole. - Choosing the right cheese Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for this dish. It melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor. You can also mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. Just be sure to shred it fresh for the best results. - Vegetables to enhance flavor Adding vegetables like bell peppers and onions boosts flavor and nutrition. Diced bell peppers bring color and sweetness. Onions add a nice depth. Feel free to include spinach or mushrooms for more variety. - Seasoning suggestions for a unique taste Garlic powder and onion powder give a great base flavor. I also like adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Adjust the salt and pepper based on your taste. Experimenting with herbs can also add a fresh touch. - Garnish options for presentation Fresh parsley is perfect for garnish. It adds a pop of green and freshness. You can also use chopped green onions or even a sprinkle of paprika for color. These small touches make your dish look more appealing. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. 1. Cooking the sausage Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled breakfast sausage. Cook it until it's browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any extra fat after cooking. Set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly. 2. Preparing the bread and mixing ingredients In a large mixing bowl, take 8 slices of cubed whole grain bread. Add the cooked sausage, 1 cup of diced bell peppers, 1 cup of diced onion, and 1 ½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well mixed. 1. Combining eggs and seasonings In another bowl, crack 8 large eggs and pour in 2 cups of milk. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and some salt and pepper to taste. 2. Tips for whisking effectively Use a whisk to blend the eggs and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are combined. Make sure there are no egg whites left unblended. 1. Transferring to baking dish Pour the egg mixture over the bread and sausage mixture. Gently stir until everything is coated well with the egg mixture. 2. Prepping the casserole for refrigeration Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the refrigerator overnight. 3. Baking recommendations The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the casserole and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top. Bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. The center should be set, and the top should look golden and bubbly. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. You can garnish with chopped fresh parsley. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. To ensure even cooking, spread the mixture in your dish evenly. Avoid piling it too high on one side. This helps every bite cook just right. When baking, keep an eye on the casserole. It should be golden brown on top. To check for doneness, stick a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If it’s still wet or gooey, give it more time. Remember, the center must be fully set for the best texture. Prep-ahead ideas can make busy mornings stress-free. You can prepare this casserole the night before. Just mix all the ingredients and place them in your baking dish. Cover it well and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, you only need to bake it. Freezing portions is another great idea. Cut leftover casserole into slices and wrap them tightly. Place them in freezer bags to keep them fresh. When you want a quick meal, just reheat a slice in the oven or microwave. This makes for easy breakfasts any day of the week! {{image_2}} You can easily swap some ingredients in Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole. If you need a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread. Many brands offer great alternatives that taste good. For the sausage, you can use turkey sausage or even plant-based options. These substitutions keep the dish tasty while being healthier. To add more flavor, consider adding spices. A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can give it a nice kick. You can also play with cheeses. Try mixing sharp cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can also boost the taste and nutrition. For the full recipe, visit the [Full Recipe] link. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cut it into serving sizes. Place the pieces in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge. This method keeps them fresh. How long does it last? The casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. After that, the quality may decline. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To reheat, use the oven for the best texture. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. However, this may make it a bit soggy. Serve it with fresh fruit or a side salad. These sides balance the rich flavors of the casserole. Can I prepare this casserole without eggs? Yes, you can make this casserole without eggs. Use a mix of silken tofu and plant-based milk. Blend until smooth. This will keep the casserole creamy and moist. What can I serve with Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole? This dish pairs well with fruit salad or yogurt. You can also serve it with crispy bacon or fresh juice. These sides add balance to the meal. Is it possible to make this dish in advance longer than overnight? Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to two days ahead. Just keep it in the fridge. Make sure it is well-covered to prevent drying out. How to adjust cooking time for smaller portions? If you make a smaller batch, reduce the baking time. Check the casserole after 30 minutes. It may need an extra 10-15 minutes, depending on the size. Can I make it vegetarian-friendly? Absolutely! Simply swap the sausage for a veggie option. You can use mushrooms or plant-based sausage. This change keeps the flavor while making it meat-free. In summary, this blog post guides you through making a delicious breakfast casserole. We covered essential ingredients like whole grain bread, sausage, and cheese, enhancing flavors with vegetables and spices. The step-by-step instructions simplify preparation, while tips help save time. You can explore variations with gluten-free options or plant-based sausage. Remember to store leftovers properly and reheat for the best taste. Enjoy this hearty dish any morning, and feel free to customize it to fit your taste!](https://stirredrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/af3dad79-afa8-4eb4-9e5d-e87c882b2ea2-300x300.webp)
Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with a delicious Fireman’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole that's hearty and full of flavor! This crowd-pleasing dish features savory sausage, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for busy mornings or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare the night before and pop into the oven in the morning. Click through to discover the full recipe and impress your family or guests with this satisfying breakfast treat!