Pancake Sausage Casserole – Perfect for a Quick Breakfast
Short Introduction
Pancake Sausage Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of fluffy pancakes and savory sausage in one pan. It’s an ideal recipe for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, offering a delightful twist on classic breakfast foods. With its easy preparation and delectable taste, this casserole is sure to become a breakfast favorite for your family.
Why You’ll Love It
This casserole is not only tasty but also packed with benefits that make breakfast a breeze. First, it combines two beloved breakfast items—pancakes and sausage—into one dish, allowing you to skip the hassle of cooking multiple items. Additionally, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish that can be prepared in advance and baked when needed. This makes it perfect for busy weekdays or special occasions. It’s also customizable, meaning you can adapt it to suit various dietary preferences or add your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups buttermilk pancake mix
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or links)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
Substitutions & Key Variations
- Pancake mix: You can use a homemade pancake mix if you prefer or opt for gluten-free pancake mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Sausage: Swap breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or a vegetarian sausage as a lighter or plant-based option.
- Milk: Substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any milk alternative of your choice.
- Maple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used in place of maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Add-ins: Feel free to include extras like cheese, vegetables, or herbs to add flavor and variety.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a large baking dish with butter. This helps prevent sticking and gives a nice richness to the casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbly. Be sure to drain any excess grease from the pan to keep the casserole from being too greasy.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk pancake mix, whole milk, and eggs. Stir until everything is just mixed, keeping in mind that it’s okay if there are some lumps in the batter.
Step 4: Add Maple Syrup and Sausage
Fold in half of the maple syrup and some of the cooked sausage bits into the batter. This will give the casserole a delightful sweet and savory flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour half of the batter into the greased baking dish. Layer in the remaining sausage, then top it off with the rest of the pancake batter, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is golden brown and springs back when lightly touched.
Success Tips
- Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated; this helps achieve the right texture.
- Texture: The casserole should be soft and fluffy on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Common Mistakes: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy one.
How to Serve
Once your Pancake Sausage Casserole has cooled slightly, cut it into squares. Serve warm drizzled with the remaining maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar. Fresh fruits, like berries or sliced bananas, would make great accompaniments as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a better texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and cover it in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a little while before you bake it.
Q2: How can I make this casserole lighter?
You can use low-fat milk and turkey sausage instead of regular sausage for a lighter version.
Q3: Can I freeze Pancake Sausage Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to two months.
Nutrition Notes / Equivalents
This hearty casserole provides a solid balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fats, making it a well-rounded breakfast option when enjoyed in moderation. Consider pairing it with fresh fruits for additional vitamins and fiber.
Conclusion
Pancake Sausage Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy a blend of comforting breakfast favorites in one dish. With its easy preparation and delicious flavor, it makes breakfast more enjoyable and less time-consuming. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe for your next brunch or busy morning!
Ready to whip up this delicious dish? Gather your ingredients and enjoy a cozy breakfast today!
Links to Related Recipes
- Easy Banana Pancakes
- Savory Breakfast Quiche
- Overnight Oats with Fresh Fruit
- Breakfast Burritos
- Egg Muffins with Spinach and Cheese
Pancake Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups buttermilk pancake mix You can use a homemade pancake mix or a gluten-free pancake mix.
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or links) Can substitute with turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage.
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk Substitute with almond milk or any milk alternative.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup Honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives.
- 2 tbsp butter For greasing the baking dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbly, then drain excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk pancake mix, whole milk, and eggs, stirring until just mixed.
- Fold in half of the maple syrup and some of the cooked sausage into the batter.
- Pour half of the batter into the greased baking dish, layer the remaining sausage, then top with the rest of the batter.
Baking
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
Serving
- Cut into squares and serve warm, drizzled with remaining maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar. Fresh fruits are a great accompaniment.