Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole

This Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and cheesy dish, which is made with Colby jack cheese and pork sausage. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast, ready in about 7 hours and 35 minutes.

Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

• 6–8 slices white bread, crust removed
• 4 cups freshly shredded Colby jack cheese or cheddar cheese
• 12 ounces pork sausage
• 1/4 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
• 4-ounce can of diced green chiles
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

How To Make Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole

1. Prep the bread and pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Remove crusts from the bread slices and layer them evenly in the bottom of the dish.
2. Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the grease and set the sausage aside.
3. Sauté the veggies: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 3–5 minutes until softened, then stir in the diced green chiles.
4. Layer the ingredients: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the bread layer. Add the sausage and then top with the sautéed vegetables.
5. Mix the eggs and spices: In a bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. Stir in the milk, salt, pepper, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and dry mustard.
6. Assemble and chill: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
7. Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
8. Cool and serve: Let the casserole rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipe Tips

• Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.
• Why chill overnight? Letting it rest allows the flavors to meld and ensures an even bake.
• How to tell when it’s done: The center should be set and the edges lightly browned.
• Can I substitute the sausage? Yes, try turkey sausage, ham, or a vegetarian alternative.
• What kind of bread works best? Use sturdy white bread that won’t turn mushy overnight.

What To Serve With Breakfast Casserole

This savory casserole pairs well with light and fresh sides:

• Fresh fruit salad
• Yogurt parfaits
• Orange juice or coffee
• Hash browns or breakfast potatoes
• Toast with jam or honey

How To Store Breakfast Casserole

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Freeze: Freeze baked casserole slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Breakfast Casserole Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 324
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 18g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I prep this without refrigerating overnight?
You can chill it for at least 6 hours, but overnight soaking improves texture and flavor.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage or replace it with a plant-based version.

How far ahead can I make it?
You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss work well in this recipe.

Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?
No, bake it uncovered so the top gets golden and slightly crispy.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Crab Rangoon Dip
• Ina Garten German Potato Salad
• Barefoot Contessa Cranberry Orange Bread