Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole
If you’re looking for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast that can feed a crowd, look no further than this Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole. It combines savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheeses all baked together into a hearty dish that’s perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions. With just a little preparation the night before, you can wake up to a delightful meal that will impress family and friends alike.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The flavors of Italian sausage and fresh herbs meld beautifully, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s filling yet light. The best part? You can assemble it the night before, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop even more flavor. In the morning, simply pop it in the oven and enjoy the heavenly aroma wafting through your home as it bakes. Ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or a simple family breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What to Buy
To make this Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- 1 pound uncooked Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 red bell peppers, seeds removed and diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 dozen large eggs
- 1/2 cup full-fat milk
- 1/3 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
Equipment at a Glance
To prepare this casserole, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large skillet: For cooking the sausage and vegetables.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the egg mixture.
- 9×13 inch baking dish: To bake the casserole.
- Whisk: For beating the eggs and milk together.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
Make Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole: A Simple Method
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Once hot, add the uncooked Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add the diced onion, red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the fresh spinach, Italian seasoning, fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, full-fat milk, ricotta cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the combined mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to customize this casserole based on seasonal produce or personal preference with these swaps:
- Swap Italian sausage for turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
- Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus instead of bell peppers.
- Add or replace herbs with fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
- In place of spinach, try kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Make sure to remove excess grease from the cooked sausage before adding it to the egg mixture for a lighter casserole.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
- You can add more cheese if you desire a richer flavor; mozzarella works wonderfully as well.
- For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
Storage Pro Tips
This Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, slice the casserole into portions and microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to make it ahead of time and freeze it, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Q&A
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a fully vegetarian sausage option to cater to your taste preferences.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include bread. Just ensure that any sausage or cheese you use is certified gluten-free.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I prepare this casserole without meat?
Of course! You can easily omit the sausage and add more vegetables or even some beans for protein. This will still yield a delicious and satisfying breakfast casserole.
Bring It Home
This Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and a way to gather friends and family around the breakfast table. With its rich blend of ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday brunch, a casual get-together, or just a cozy breakfast at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; feel free to make it your own with seasonal ingredients or personal touches.
So, don your apron and get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouthwatering breakfast casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds. Start your day right with a slice of comfort and joy—your taste buds will thank you!
Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Once hot, add the uncooked Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the fresh spinach, Italian seasoning, fresh rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, full-fat milk, ricotta cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to the egg mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the combined mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Remove excess grease from the cooked sausage for a lighter casserole.
- Let the casserole cool before slicing for easier portions.
- Add more cheese for a richer flavor, mozzarella works well.
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
