If you are on the hunt for a hearty, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining fluffy, sweet pancakes with savory breakfast sausage, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture that will quickly become a favorite at your brunch table or family breakfast. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and brings that perfect balance of sweet and salty in every bite, making it a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of texture and flavor, from the creamy batter to the golden browned sausage. Together, these ingredients create a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): Adds savory richness and a flavorful punch that complements the sweet batter perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups pancake mix: Or a homemade blend including 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda to create a fluffy, tender base.
- 1 1/4 cups milk: Keeps the batter moist while blending all dry ingredients smoothly together.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help the casserole set as it bakes.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a subtle layer of sweetness and warmth to balance the savory sausage.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Offers richness and helps achieve that golden crust we all crave.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving): Infuses the batter with a hint of natural sweetness that complements the sausage beautifully.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): For a melty, cheesy topping that adds gooey texture and a hint of sharpness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
How to Make Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick and comes out easily once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it is nicely browned and thoroughly cooked, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Remember to drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
Combine your pancake mix (or the homemade equivalent of flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda) with milk, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk everything together until the batter is perfectly smooth and lump-free.
Step 4: Layer the Sausage
Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This savory layer will be the flavorful base that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy pancake topping.
Step 5: Add the Batter
Pour the pancake batter evenly over the sausage layer, ensuring it covers all the meat for a consistent bite throughout the casserole.
Step 6: Bake and Add Cheese
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should turn a gorgeous golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean—an indicator that it’s perfectly cooked. If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking, so it melts into a bubbly, irresistible topping.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set before slicing into squares. Drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top right before serving to add a touch of sweetness that pulls the whole dish together.
How to Serve Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you love a bit more sweetness, a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra drizzle of warm maple syrup makes each bite a little more decadent.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp fruit salads, fresh berries, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. A side of scrambled eggs or roasted potatoes also makes for a satisfying and complete breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve this casserole in individual ramekins, allowing guests to enjoy their own personal portion. You can also make a layered version by alternating sausage and pancake batter in a deep dish for a dramatic presentation that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe keeps wonderfully for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this casserole by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen casserole pieces will keep well for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed portions in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For the best texture, reheating in the oven at 350°F until hot and slightly crisp on top will revive that fresh-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works well in this Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe without compromising flavor or texture.
Is it necessary to use pancake mix, or can I make my own batter?
You can definitely make your own batter using all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. This makes the recipe flexible if you want to control sugar content or avoid store-bought mixes.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it fresh in the morning. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.
Is the cheese optional?
Cheese is an optional ingredient that adds a creamy, melty top layer. If you’re not a fan of cheddar or prefer to keep it simpler, feel free to skip it—you’ll still have a delicious casserole.
Can I add veggies to this recipe?
Certainly! Diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms sautéed with the sausage can introduce extra flavor and nutrition, turning this dish into an even heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
This Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe is a treasure for any breakfast lover. It combines ease, flavor, and versatility in one dish, making mornings something to look forward to. Whether for a cozy weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Print
Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pancake Sausage Casserole is a delicious breakfast casserole combining savory breakfast sausage and fluffy pancake batter baked to golden perfection. With a hint of maple syrup sweetness and optional cheddar cheese topping, it’s an easy one-dish meal perfect for family brunches or busy mornings.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
Batter
- 1 1/2 cups pancake mix (or 1 cup all-purpose flour + 1 tablespoon sugar + 1 teaspoon baking powder + 1/2 teaspoon baking soda)
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook thoroughly until browned, then drain excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix (or the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda if using homemade mix), milk, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth, well-combined batter.
- Layer the Sausage: Evenly spread the cooked sausage across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer as the base of your casserole.
- Add the Batter: Pour the pancake batter evenly over the sausage layer, ensuring it covers the sausage uniformly for even cooking.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole turns golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow it to melt and bubble delightfully.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving for an enhanced sweet-savory flavor.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy breakfast sausage depending on your preference for heat.
- Using pancake mix simplifies the recipe, but you can make your own mix using all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Cheddar cheese is optional but adds a nice savory richness when melted on top.
- Allow the casserole to rest slightly before slicing to ensure clean portions.
- Extra maple syrup drizzled on top adds a delightful sweetness contrast.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free pancake mix.
