Let me tell you about my favorite go-to dish for breakfast or brunch: the Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole. This hearty casserole is everything you want in a morning meal—it’s filling, flavorful, and packed with delicious ingredients. The combination of savory sausage, sweet cranberries, and the comforting texture of stuffing creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just treating yourself on a cozy weekend, this casserole is sure to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it for days!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound sausage: I love using a savory breakfast sausage for that rich flavor. You can go for mild or spicy, depending on your taste!
- 8 cups stuffing mix: You can use your favorite store-bought stuffing mix or homemade if you have it. Just make sure it’s dry so it can soak up all that delicious broth!
- 2 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture and depth of flavor. I recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1 cup cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries work beautifully here! They bring a pop of sweetness and tartness that balances the savory elements.
- 6 eggs: These are essential for binding everything together, creating a fluffy texture.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk gives a creamy richness, but feel free to use whatever milk you have on hand.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors. You can adjust this based on your preference.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: A little kick of black pepper to round out the flavors.
Once you’ve got everything ready, you’re all set to create this mouthwatering casserole! It’s all about layering those flavors perfectly.
How to Prepare Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making this Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden-brown top. Trust me, you want that nice crust!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Now, grab a skillet and crumble the sausage in there over medium heat. Cook it until it’s beautifully browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want that nice caramelization, so don’t rush it! Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks for even browning. You can drain any excess grease if it looks too oily, but a little fat adds flavor!
Step 3: Combine Stuffing and Cranberries
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with the stuffing mix and cranberries. Stir it all together until the cranberries are evenly distributed. This mix is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well incorporated!
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial because the eggs are what bind the casserole together, creating a fluffy texture. Whisking well ensures that you don’t have any clumps!
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Now, pour the egg mixture over the sausage and stuffing mixture. Gently fold everything together until it’s all coated. You want to make sure the bread absorbs that egg mixture nicely. Then, transfer this glorious mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Baking
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is set and golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Just imagine the smell wafting through your house—absolute perfection!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: This Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole is a filling dish that will keep you energized throughout the day.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of savory sausage, sweet cranberries, and aromatic stuffing creates a delightful harmony of tastes that everyone will love.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it the night before, and just pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast or brunch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a weekend brunch, or just a cozy family breakfast, this casserole fits right in.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices, or switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Use Quality Sausage: Opt for a high-quality sausage that you love. Whether you prefer mild or spicy, the sausage is the star of the show, so choose one that packs flavor!
- Customize Your Stuffing: Feel free to use flavored stuffing mixes, like herb or cornbread, to add an extra layer of taste. You can even throw in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for added flavor.
- Let It Sit: If you have time, let the assembled casserole sit for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the stuffing to soak up the egg mixture even more, resulting in a fluffier texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking.
- Try Different Add-ins: Get creative! You can add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even cheese for a twist. Just make sure to adjust the liquid if you add ingredients that release moisture.
- Perfect for Leftovers: If you have any leftover casserole, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. It’s just as delicious the next day, making it a great meal prep option!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to making a fabulous breakfast casserole that everyone will love. Enjoy the process—cooking should be fun!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional overview for each slice of this delicious Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this should give you a good idea:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 15g
This casserole is not only satisfying but also provides a nice balance of protein and carbs to kickstart your day. Enjoy every hearty bite while keeping an eye on those nutritional goals!
FAQ Section
Can I make the Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for prep the night before. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
What can I substitute for sausage?
If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to keep that flavor punch!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s just as tasty the next day, trust me!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Perfect for meal prep!
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a simple green salad. If you want to go all out, add some crispy bacon or a side of pancakes for a delightful brunch spread!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole is super easy, and you’ll want to keep it fresh for those tasty next-day bites! First, let the casserole cool down completely before putting it away. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the casserole too! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should last in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just move it to the fridge the night before to thaw.
For reheating, you can pop individual slices in the microwave for a quick fix. Just heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure it’s warmed through. If you prefer the oven (which I highly recommend for that lovely crispy texture), preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in a baking dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. Just keep an eye on it, and you’ll have a piping hot, delicious breakfast ready to go!
Print
Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole: 5 Flavorful Steps
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole is a hearty dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines sausage, stuffing, and cranberries for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound sausage
- 8 cups stuffing mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cranberries
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned.
- Add the cooked sausage to a bowl with the stuffing mix and cranberries.
- Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the egg mixture with the stuffing mixture.
- Transfer everything to a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes until set and golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Serve warm with your favorite brunch sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole