Jimmy Dean Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe Guide

The Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole is a popular make-ahead breakfast dish featuring Jimmy Dean sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread. Standard preparation involves browning 1 pound of Jimmy Dean sausage, layering with 6 cups cubed bread and 2 cups shredded cheese, then pouring over a mixture of 8 beaten eggs and 2 cups milk. After refrigerating overnight, bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes until the center is set. This hearty casserole serves 6-8 people and can be prepared in 20 minutes with 8-12 hours chilling time.

If you're searching for a reliable, crowd-pleasing breakfast option that can be prepared ahead of time, the Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole delivers on convenience and flavor. This classic brunch dish has become a staple for holiday mornings, potlucks, and busy weekdays thanks to its simple ingredients and make-ahead versatility. The combination of savory Jimmy Dean sausage, creamy egg mixture, and melted cheese creates a satisfying meal that reheats beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works

The success of a Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole recipe hinges on proper ingredient ratios and preparation technique. Unlike many online variations, the authentic approach uses quality ingredients without unnecessary shortcuts that compromise texture. The high fat content in Jimmy Dean sausage provides exceptional flavor that permeates the entire casserole during baking. When selecting your sausage, regular or sage varieties work best for this breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage as they hold their shape better than hot varieties.

Complete Ingredients List

Creating the perfect Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole requires precise measurements. Here's what you'll need for an 8x8 inch baking dish:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Jimmy Dean sausage (regular or sage)	1 pound	Not pre-cooked
Bread, cubed	6 cups	Day-old works best
Shredded cheddar cheese	2 cups	Divided
Eggs	8 large	Beaten
Milk	2 cups	Whole or 2% recommended
Dry mustard	1 teaspoon	Optional for depth
Salt and pepper	To taste	Adjust after sausage cooks

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these instructions for the best results with your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bake:

1. Brown the sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound Jimmy Dean sausage until no longer pink. Drain excess grease and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare baking dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
3. Layer ingredients: Spread cubed bread evenly in the dish, followed by cooked sausage, and 1½ cups cheese.
4. Make egg mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Pour over layers: Slowly pour egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
6. Refrigerate: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8-12 hours (minimum 4 hours).
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove plastic wrap, sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top, and bake for 45-60 minutes until center is set and top is golden brown.
8. Rest: Let stand 10 minutes before serving to allow structure to set.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Mastering the Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole with eggs requires attention to detail. These professional tips ensure success every time:

• Sausage selection matters: Jimmy Dean sage sausage adds traditional breakfast flavor, while regular provides milder taste. Avoid hot varieties as they can overpower other ingredients in your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe.
• Bread texture is crucial: Use slightly stale bread for best results. Fresh bread will become too soggy, while overly stale bread won't absorb the egg mixture properly in your make ahead breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage.
• Don't skip the chilling time: The overnight refrigeration allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, creating that signature custardy texture in your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bake.
• Test for doneness: Insert a knife near the center; it should come out clean. The casserole will continue setting as it rests.
• Grease your dish well: This prevents sticking, especially important for make ahead breakfast casseroles with Jimmy Dean sausage that spend hours in the refrigerator.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe lies in its adaptability. Consider these popular modifications:

• Veggie addition: Sauté 1 cup diced bell peppers and 1 cup onions with the sausage for a Southwest-style Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole with vegetables.
• Meat alternatives: Substitute half the sausage with cooked bacon for a Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole with bacon variation.
• Dairy-free option: Use almond milk and dairy-free cheese to create a dairy-free Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole.
• Gluten-free adaptation: Replace bread with gluten-free croissants or rolls for a gluten-free Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe.
• Spicy kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed) when cooking the sausage for a spicy Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

One of the main advantages of this make ahead breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage is its excellent storage properties:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. This makes your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole perfect for meal prep.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Reviving texture: Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore moisture to your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bake.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, these pairings elevate your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole experience:

• Fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal
• Maple syrup on the side for those who enjoy sweet and savory combinations
• Breakfast potatoes or hash browns for additional heartiness
• Simple green salad for brunch gatherings
• Your favorite hot sauce for an extra flavor dimension

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced cooks encounter challenges with breakfast casseroles. Here's how to fix common problems with your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole:

• Soggy bottom: Ensure you drain all grease from the cooked sausage and don't overdo the milk in your egg mixture for the Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe.
• Dry texture: Don't overbake. The casserole continues cooking as it rests. Check 5-10 minutes before the minimum baking time.
• Uneven cooking: Rotate the dish halfway through baking for your make ahead breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage.
• Collapsed center: Avoid opening the oven frequently during baking, which causes temperature fluctuations in your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole.
• Strong egg flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the egg mixture to balance flavors in your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bake.

Can I use frozen bread for Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen bread cubes for Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole, but thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Frozen bread that's too wet will make your casserole soggy. Day-old bread works best for optimal texture in your make ahead breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage.

How do I prevent my Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole from being watery?

To prevent a watery Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole, thoroughly drain all grease from the cooked sausage, use the correct egg-to-milk ratio (8 eggs to 2 cups milk), and ensure your bread isn't too fresh. The overnight chilling time is crucial as it allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid. Don't skip this step in your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe.

Can I make Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole without bread?

Yes, you can make a bread-free version of Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole by substituting the bread with cubed potatoes, tater tots, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. The texture will differ from the traditional make ahead breakfast casserole with Jimmy Dean sausage, but it will still be delicious. You may need to adjust the egg mixture quantity slightly.

How long does Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast casserole last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure it's cooled to room temperature before storing. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore moisture to your Jimmy Dean sausage breakfast bake for best results.

Can I use Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in breakfast casserole?

Yes, Jimmy Dean turkey sausage works well in breakfast casserole as a leaner alternative. Use the same quantity (1 pound) as regular sausage. Note that turkey sausage has less fat, so you might want to add 1 tablespoon of olive oil when cooking to compensate for the reduced fat content in your Jimmy Dean breakfast casserole recipe.