If you are craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a busy morning, this Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together fluffy pancakes, savory maple sausage, and a rich custard soak, all baked into a golden, comforting casserole. You prep it the night before, which means waking up to a kitchen filled with irresistible aromas and a breakfast that practically serves itself. Trust me, this dish will become your go-to for weekend brunches or special family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each element plays a crucial role: the pancakes create a soft and spongy base, the maple sausage adds a savory, slightly sweet punch, and the creamy custard mixture ties everything together with silky richness and subtle sweetness.
- 20 to 24 frozen pancakes (from a 33-oz package, thawed): These form the perfect pillow-like layers that soak up all the eggy goodness.
- 1 lb maple sausage: A deliciously seasoned sausage that brings that classic breakfast flavor with a hint of maple sweetness.
- 6 large eggs: The backbone of the custard, binding everything together beautifully.
- 1½ cups heavy cream: Adds richness and a luscious texture to the custard.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the custard mixture, balancing creaminess without heaviness.
- 1 tsp vanilla: A subtle fragrant note that enhances the overall sweetness and depth.
- 2 Tbsp sugar: Just enough to round out the flavors and complement the maple syrup.
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup (plus more for serving): The star sweetener, bringing warmth and character.
How to Make Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pancake Base
Slice your thawed pancakes in half and arrange them cut side down in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This layout creates a sturdy yet tender foundation that will soak up the custard and sausage flavors overnight.
Step 2: Cook and Add Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook your maple sausage until it’s no longer pink and nicely browned. Drain excess fat, then scatter the cooked sausage evenly over and between the pancake halves—this ensures each bite bursts with that savory, maple-infused delight.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla, sugar, and maple syrup until smooth and fully blended. This rich custard is what transforms the pancakes and sausage into a cohesive, melt-in-your-mouth casserole.
Step 4: Combine and Soak Overnight
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the pancakes and sausage in the baking dish. Cover the casserole tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This soak allows the pancakes to absorb all the custard flavors, making the texture incredibly soft and flavorful in the morning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and let the casserole sit at room temperature while you preheat the oven to 350ºF. Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes, until the center is set and the top is a beautiful golden color.
Step 6: Let it Rest and Serve
Give the casserole about 5 minutes to set after coming out of the oven. Serve warm with extra maple syrup drizzled over the top for that perfect blend of sweet and savory in every forkful.
How to Serve Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your casserole experience with fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. A few fresh berries on the side add color and a burst of fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Alternatively, serve with fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins instead of a large dish. Layer the components similarly, but reduce baking time. You could also top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of warm caramel for brunch celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making it a fabulous ready-to-heat breakfast or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover casserole pieces by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing them in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a cozy breakfast, just thaw overnight and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, warm the casserole slices in a preheated oven at 350ºF for 10–15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pancakes instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh pancakes work perfectly. Just make sure they’re cooled before assembling. The ease of frozen pancakes is convenient, but fresh ones add a homemade touch.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes. Simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a savory filling without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole without refrigerating overnight?
While you can bake it immediately after assembling, letting it sit overnight allows the pancakes to soak in the custard fully, giving the dish its signature moist texture and depth of flavor.
How do I make the casserole less sweet?
Reduce the sugar and maple syrup in the custard to suit your taste. You can also swap maple syrup for honey or omit it to keep it more savory.
Can I use different types of milk or cream?
Definitely. Whole milk, half-and-half, or even non-dairy alternatives like almond or oat milk work well. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly depending on fat content.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that combines convenience, comfort, and big flavors, this Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole Recipe is destined to become a favorite in your home. It brings joy and ease to busy mornings in the most delicious way imaginable. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly special start to the day.
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Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes prep + overnight refrigeration + 50 minutes baking (approx. 9 hours total including refrigeration)
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Overnight Sausage Pancake Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and hearty morning dish perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings. Combining tender pancakes with savory maple sausage and a rich custard made of eggs, cream, and a touch of maple syrup, this casserole is prepared overnight for convenience and baked until golden and set. Serve warm with extra maple syrup for a comforting start to the day.
Ingredients
Base
- 20 to 24 frozen pancakes (from a 33-oz package, thawed)
Sausage
- 1 lb maple sausage
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Cut the thawed pancakes in half and place them cut side down in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them evenly to form a base.
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the maple sausage until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the cooked meat.
- Add Sausage to Pancakes: Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over and between the pancake halves in the baking dish to distribute flavor throughout the casserole.
- Make the Custard: Whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and maple syrup until smooth and fully combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the pancake and sausage layers in the baking dish, allowing it to soak through.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the casserole loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the custard soak.
- Bake the Casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover. Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Bake the casserole uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes or until the center is completely set and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes after baking. Serve warm with additional maple syrup on the side for drizzling.
Notes
- You can substitute the maple sausage with your favorite breakfast sausage if desired.
- For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream or a combination of both.
- The casserole can be assembled and refrigerated the night before, making it ideal for busy mornings.
- Ensure the center is set before removing from the oven to avoid undercooked custard.
- Extra maple syrup on the side adds an authentic sweet flavor but can be omitted for less sugar.
