Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of sizzling Italian sausage wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a spark of joy—mornings are meant for memorable breakfasts! This Quick and Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is my secret weapon for lazy weekends and bustling holiday gatherings. Packed with savory layers of veggies, cheesy goodness, and hearty sausage, this delightful dish requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The best part? You can prep it the night before and let it work its magic while you sleep. Say goodbye to fast food mornings and hello to a delicious, wholesome start! Ready to impress your family? Let’s dive into this satisfying breakfast adventure together! Why Make Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole? Convenient Prep: You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this casserole the night before, letting it work its magic while you snooze. Flavor Explosion: Rich flavors from Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and fresh veggies create a breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds! Tailored to You: The versatile ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you want to go vegetarian or add a spicy kick! Don’t forget to check out my Savory Breakfast Muffins for more breakfast inspiration. Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for brunch gatherings, this dish impresses guests and family alike, sparking joy in every bite. Satisfying Texture: Fluffy and hearty, this casserole delivers the perfect morning satisfaction that easily lifts the spirits. Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Ingredients For the Base Olive Oil or Cooking Spray – Keeps the casserole dish from sticking; any neutral oil works well if you’re out. Italian Sausage – Adds rich flavors and protein; for a healthy twist, turkey sausage is a great substitute. Italian Seasoning – Elevates the dish with robust flavors; consider a mix of dried oregano and basil if you’re short on time. Large Eggs – The binding star of this casserole; essential for that fluffy texture and no direct substitute recommended. Full-Fat Milk – Gives a creamy consistency; you can use whole almond milk for a dairy-free adaptation. For the Veggies Onion – Enhances sweetness and complexity; favor shallots or leeks for a milder taste. Red Bell Peppers – Bring a sweet crunch to the mix; green peppers or other colored peppers are delightful alternatives. Fresh Spinach – Adds vibrant color and nutrition; swap with kale or Swiss chard for a change. Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t at hand. For the Creamy Layer Ricotta Cheese – Infuses creaminess and a slight tang; cottage cheese is a lighter option if preferred. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Brings savory richness; consider Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast if you’re going vegan. For Seasoning Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for perfecting flavor; adjust according to your taste preferences. This Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to wake up your mornings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, generously grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This essential step ensures your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole comes out easily and maintains its deliciously fluffy texture. Step 2: Sauté the Sausage In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and cook the Italian sausage until it’s nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning and fresh rosemary, allowing those fragrant flavors to meld. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, keeping those tasty drippings in the pan. Step 3: Cook the Vegetables Using the same skillet, add the diced onions and red bell peppers, sautéing until softened, approximately 6 minutes. The vegetables should be vibrant and fragrant. Next, introduce the fresh spinach and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts. This colorful mix will be the perfect complement to your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole. Step 4: Combine Sausage and Veggies Return the cooked Italian sausage to the skillet, gently folding it into the sautéed vegetables. Mix everything until well combined and heated through, allowing the mixture to unite both flavors and textures. This hearty filling will form a rich base for your casserole. Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, full-fat milk, ricotta cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend will act as the luscious binding agent for your casserole, giving it that delightful custardy consistency. Set the mixture aside to thicken slightly. Step 6: Layer the Casserole In your greased casserole dish, layer half of the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom. Pour half of the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it seeps through the layers. Next, add the remaining sausage and vegetable mix, followed by the rest of the egg mixture. Gently shake the dish to encourage even distribution throughout. Step 7: Refrigerate or Bake Now, cover your casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap. You can refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld harmoniously or bake it immediately for a warm breakfast. If baking right away, place it in the preheated oven and cook uncovered for about 55 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and golden brown on top. Step 8: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period will facilitate easier slicing and serving. As you cut into your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole, you’ll unveil a beautiful, fluffy interior filled with savory delights, ready to be enjoyed at your morning table. Expert Tips for Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Prep Ahead: Start your casserole the night before to save time in the morning. It allows the flavors to meld wonderfully while you sleep! Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies like spinach and bell peppers enhance both flavor and nutrition. Avoid canned or frozen for best results. Whisk Well: Ensure that the eggs and milk are fully whisked together. This creates a smooth, even texture throughout your casserole. Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier for perfect portions. Don’t Skip the Cheese: A mix of ricotta and Parmesan adds creaminess and richness to the casserole. This is what elevates your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole to a new level! What to Serve with Quick and Easy Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole? As you gather around the table to enjoy your flavorful casserole, consider these delightful pairings that elevate your breakfast experience to new heights. Crispy Bacon: The smoky crunch complements the casserole’s creaminess, adding a satisfying texture contrast that everyone adores. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the hearty casserole and brings vibrant colors to your plate. Herbed Toast: A slice of toasted bread slathered with garlic butter or fresh herbs perfectly mops up all those delicious cheesy bites, making every morsel count. Greek Yogurt with Honey: The tanginess of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey adds a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory richness of the dish. Mimosas: A light, bubbly drink, mimosas bring a celebratory touch to your brunch, mixing sweet and tart flavors that brighten the palate. Sautéed Kale: Handfuls of wilted kale topped with a touch of lemon provide a nutrient-packed and slightly bitter contrast, balancing out the casserole’s richness perfectly. Elevate your breakfast spread and turn your morning meal into a memorable feast! Make Ahead Options These Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole preparations are a dream come true for busy cooks! You can easily assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until layering in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to deepen while saving you precious morning time. If you prefer, you can also prep the sausage and sautéed vegetables up to 3 days ahead; just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the egg mixture over the top and pop it in the oven. Your casserole will be just as delicious, giving you maximum enjoyment with minimal effort! Storage Tips for Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Fridge: Keep your casserole in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. This helps maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: If you have leftovers or want to make a double batch, freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the delicious flavors of your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole again! Make-Ahead: Prep this casserole the night before and store it in the fridge, making mornings a breeze! Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Variations Feel free to get creative with this delectable dish, allowing your unique tastes to shine through! Vegetarian Option: Substitute Italian sausage with mushrooms or diced tempeh for a hearty veggie-packed casserole. Elevate the flavor with extra herbs. Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk and nutritional yeast instead of full-fat milk and cheese for a creamy, dairy-free experience. This maintains richness without compromising on taste. Extra Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, tomatoes, or asparagus to the vegetable mix for a delightful burst of color and nutrients. This can also help customize the flavor profile. Spicy Twist: Chop up some jalapeños or sprinkle in red pepper flakes to bring a fiery kick to your casserole. It’s a fantastic way to awaken those sleepy taste buds! Herb Variations: Swap in fresh basil or thyme in place of rosemary to change up the aroma and flavor depth. Each herb introduces its own charming notes. Protein Swap: Try turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter yet equally flavorful alternative. Choosing leaner proteins can still deliver that satisfying breakfast experience. Breaded Base: For a heartier texture, layer in some cubed bread or croissants at the bottom of the casserole. This adds a lovely chewy contrast to the fluffy eggs. If you’re in the mood for comforting dishes, don’t miss out on my Vegetarian Casserole Comforting or Creamy Vegetarian Casserole. These recipes provide even more delightful options for your breakfast or brunch table! Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of Italian sausage should I use? Absolutely, you can opt for your favorite Italian sausage! Traditional pork sausage works wonderfully for its rich flavor, but feel free to use turkey sausage for a lighter version without sacrificing taste. If you’re vegetarian, mushrooms or plant-based sausage can be great alternatives and still provide a satisfying texture. How should I store leftover casserole? To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy delightful leftovers throughout the week, making mornings a breeze! Can I freeze this breakfast casserole? Yes, you can absolutely freeze portions of your casserole! For optimal results, wrap slices in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. What if I want to make it gluten-free? Very! This Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole can easily be adapted to be gluten-free. Ensure that your Italian sausage and any seasonings or mixed ingredients are gluten-free, and you can enjoy this comforting dish without worry. Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of? Indeed! This casserole contains eggs and dairy; for a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, use dairy-free milk, and replace the cheeses with cashew cheese or nutritional yeast. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if serving guests with food sensitivities. What vegetables can I include for a healthier option? You can customize your casserole to your heart’s content! Try adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli for an extra nutrient boost. The more veggies, the merrier, as they not only enhance flavor but also provide wonderful texture and health benefits. Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole for Easy Mornings This Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is a hassle-free dish that combines savory layers of veggies, cheesy goodness, and hearty sausage for a memorable breakfast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Cooking Spray Keeps the casserole dish from sticking1 pound Italian Sausage Adds rich flavors and protein; turkey sausage is a healthy substitute2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning Elevates the dish with robust flavors6 large Eggs Essential for fluffy texture1 cup Full-Fat Milk Gives a creamy consistency; almond milk can be used for dairy-freeFor the Veggies1 medium Onion Enhances sweetness and complexity1 cup Red Bell Peppers Adds a sweet crunch2 cups Fresh Spinach Adds vibrant color and nutrition2 cloves Garlic Provides aromatic depthFor the Creamy Layer1 cup Ricotta Cheese Infuses creaminess and slight tang1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Brings savory richnessFor Seasoningto taste Salt Essential for perfecting flavorto taste Black Pepper Essential for perfecting flavor Equipment skilletCasserole Dishmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Overnight Italian Breakfast CasserolePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in Italian seasoning and rosemary. In the same skillet, sauté onions and red bell peppers until soft, about 6 minutes. Add spinach and garlic, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, mixing with the sautéed vegetables until well combined. Whisk together eggs, milk, ricotta cheese, and parmesan cheese until smooth. Set aside to thicken. Layer half of the sausage-vegetable mixture in the greased casserole dish, followed by half of the egg mixture. Repeat layering. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or bake immediately for 55 minutes until set. Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesThis Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit various tastes. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
