If your idea of the perfect morning includes something savory, cheesy, and hearty, this Charleston Breakfast Casseroledelivers in every bite. Packed with fluffy eggs, spiced sausage, sautéed peppers and onions, sharp cheddar, and cubed sourdough bread, this Southern-inspired casserole is everything you want from a comfort-food brunch—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s not just a breakfast—it’s a hug in casserole form. This dish is easy to prep ahead, feeds a crowd, and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for weekend gatherings, holiday mornings, or meal prepping for the week. The sourdough bread soaks up the egg mixture while still holding structure, and the sausage-cheddar combo brings big, bold brunch energy.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- ½ cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 cup cubed day-old bread (preferably sourdough or hearty white)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
🕒 Time: 15 minutes prep + 35–40 minutes bake
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Make the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
3. Sauté Veggies & Meat
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes, until soft. Add the sausage and bacon (if using), and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Layer the Casserole
In the greased baking dish, add a layer of cubed bread. Top with the sausage-veggie mixture.
5. Add Eggs & Cheese
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, pressing down lightly to help the bread soak it up. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Rest & Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use day-old bread for better texture and soak-up power.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
- Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra nutrients.
- Want spice? Use hot sausage or add jalapeños for a little kick.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Pair with Beer Cheese Dip and crackers for a brunch buffet.
- Add Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a fun, casual side dish.
- Serve Cheesy Chicken Sliders for a more filling spread.
- Keep it cozy with Crockpot Nacho Dip on the side.
- End brunch with Copycat Neiman Marcus Cookies and coffee or sweet tea.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make ahead: Assemble the entire casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm slices in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- These Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- This Beer Cheese Dip Is My Favorite Party Starter That Disappears in Minutes
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
Final Thoughts
This Charleston Breakfast Casserole brings all the savory goodness of Southern cooking to your table in one hearty dish. With sausage, eggs, veggies, and cheese tucked into every slice, it’s a sure bet for lazy weekends, brunch buffets, or breakfast-for-dinner nights. It’s easy to customize, simple to make ahead, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and show us your Southern-style brunch plate!
