Description
A delightful and easy family breakfast casserole that bakes fluffy pancakes and savory sausage together. This make-ahead dish simplifies busy mornings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any family gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
- 2 cups all-purpose baking mix
- 1 ½ cups milk (for pancake batter)
- 2 large eggs (for pancake batter)
- ½ cup pure maple syrup (for pancakes)
- 8 large eggs (for custard)
- 1 ½ cups milk (for custard)
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup (for custard)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: Extra maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, chopped nuts
Instructions
- Brown 1 pound of breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until thoroughly cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose baking mix, 1 ½ cups milk, and 2 large eggs. Whisk until the batter is mostly smooth.
- Heat a griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat, lightly greased. Pour about ¼ cup of batter per pancake (3-4 inches in diameter). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked pancakes to a plate and drizzle with ½ cup of pure maple syrup.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk 8 large eggs, 1 ½ cups milk, ¼ cup pure maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange half of the syrup-drizzled pancakes in a single layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked breakfast sausage evenly over the pancake layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pancakes and sausage.
- Carefully pour the prepared egg custard mixture evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring it saturates all layers.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, use spicy breakfast sausage.
- If you prefer, use your favorite pancake recipe from scratch.
- Whole milk provides a richer texture for both the pancakes and custard.
- Pure maple syrup offers the best flavor, but imitation syrup can be used.
- Optional toppings can enhance the presentation and flavor.
- Consider adding shredded cheese, fresh berries, or nuts for variations.
- This casserole is excellent for make-ahead preparation.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 450-550 (Varies based on ingredients and toppings)
- Sugar: Approx. 20-30g
- Sodium: Approx. 800-1200mg
- Fat: Approx. 25-35g
- Saturated Fat: Approx. 8-12g
- Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 15-20g
- Trans Fat: Approx. 0-1g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 40-50g
- Fiber: Approx. 2-4g
- Protein: Approx. 20-25g
- Cholesterol: Approx. 200-250mg
Keywords: Pancake Sausage Casserole, Family Breakfast Bake, Sausage Pancake Casserole, Easy Family Breakfast, Make-Ahead Breakfast, Brunch Casserole, Kid-Friendly Breakfast, Savory Pancake Bake, Comfort Food Breakfast