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Hey friends! Chef Emily here, and I’m bubbling with excitement to share one of my all-time favorite breakfast recipes: Pancake Sausage Casserole! This delicious dish holds a special place in my heart, much like the cherished memories of Sunday mornings spent with family gathered around the kitchen table. It all began when I was a newbie home chef, experimenting with ways to enjoy a hearty breakfast without standing over the stove flipping pancakes one by one. The aroma of sizzling sausage and sweet, buttery pancakes wafting through my kitchen was utterly intoxicating, making it feel like a warm hug on a chilly morning.
The first time I pulled this casserole from the oven, golden brown and puffed up like a fluffy cloud, I knew I had struck breakfast gold. That warm, comforting smell wrapped itself around us, dragging the whole family into the kitchen. We savored each bite, the sweetness of maple syrup mingling beautifully with the savory sausage and pillowy pancake goodness. What’s not to love? Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy breakfast in bed, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Peasy: This dish comes together with minimal fuss, making it a breeze for even the most novice cooks!
- Quick to Bake: Once you pop it in the oven, you can kick back and let the magic happen while you sip your coffee.
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s the perfect breakfast to keep you satisfied until lunchtime.
- Flavorful Combo: The mingling of sweet and savory flavors will have your taste buds dancing with joy!
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for brunch gatherings, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
2 cups buttermilk pancake mix
Perfect for that fluffy pancake texture! You can use any brand you like; just ensure it’s a mix for pancakes.1 lb breakfast sausage (bulk or links)
Use your favorite kind! Feel free to swap in turkey sausage for a lighter option or spicy sausage for a kick.4 large eggs
These bind everything together and add a rich flavor. Always make sure your eggs are fresh for the best results!1 cup whole milk
Adds moisture and creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version!1/2 cup pure maple syrup
Sweeten things up naturally! Nothing beats that rich, authentic maple flavor.2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
A little butter goes a long way in ensuring your casserole slides right out of the dish!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a large baking dish with butter. The inviting smell of melting butter will start to drift through your kitchen, setting the mood for a cozy morning.
Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. You’ll love that sizzling sound as the flavors start to bloom! Be sure to drain any excess grease so your casserole doesn’t become too oily.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and eggs until just mixed. Remember, lumps are totally okay—no need to overmix; a few lumps equal fluffy pancakes!
Fold in Syrup and Sausage
Gently fold in half of the maple syrup and some of the cooked sausage into the batter. That sweet and savory combination is making my mouth water just thinking about it!
Layer in the Dish
Pour half the batter into the prepared baking dish, then layer on the remaining sausage before topping with the rest of the batter. It’s like a cozy breakfast hug, all layered up!
Bake
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until it’s golden brown and springy to the touch. When you pull it out of the oven, the delicious aroma will fill your home, making it truly hard to wait!
Pro Tips for Success
- Rest the Batter: Letting the batter sit for a few minutes before baking can enhance the fluffiness.
- Sausage Variants: Feel free to mix and match sausage types or even add in veggies for a little extra nutrition.
- Baking Dish Matters: Use a dark or non-stick dish to get that perfectly golden crust.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on it towards the end; a golden top should mean it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Flavor Variations
- Seasonal Swaps: Try adding shredded apples in the fall or pumpkin puree for a lovely twist.
- Spice It Up: Instead of sausage, add cooked bacon or chorizo for a unique flavor profile.
- Add-ins: Throw in some blueberries or chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with freshly sliced fruit, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup. For drinks, consider pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing orange juice—perfect for that brunch vibe!
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep this casserole the night before—just mix everything and pour it into the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight, so all you have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven! Stored in an airtight container, this casserole lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), you can repurpose them in a delightful breakfast burrito or blend them into a smoothie for a quick, nutritious snack.
Freezing
Absolutely! Just let the casserole cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The best ways to reheat? Start with a skillet over medium heat for a solid crisp on the edges, or simply pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. The microwave can work in a pinch, but you might lose that delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pancake mix?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s a savory pancake mix; you can even use homemade if you have a favorite recipe.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Sure! Swap out sausage for your favorite plant-based protein, or load up on veggies like bell peppers, spinach, and onions for added flavor.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
When the top is golden brown and springy to the touch, it’s ready! If you have a toothpick handy, you can poke it in the center; it should come out clean.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
For sure! Feel free to reduce the maple syrup or swap it for other sweeteners, like honey or agave, to fit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me in this warm, cozy kitchen adventure! There’s just something about a shared meal that brings people closer, and this Pancake Sausage Casserole is the perfect centerpiece for those lovely moments. I hope it fills your home with delightful aromas and helps create beautiful memories just like it did for me. Happy cooking, my friends, and may your mornings always be filled with fluffiness and joy!
Love and pancakes,
Chef Emily 🌟
Pancake Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with butter.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned and crumbly. Be sure to drain any excess grease.
- In a large bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and eggs until just mixed. Lumps are okay!
- Gently fold in half of the maple syrup and some of the cooked sausage into the batter.
- Pour half the batter into the prepared baking dish, then layer on the remaining sausage before topping with the rest of the batter.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown and springy to the touch.