Pancake Sausage Casserole: Perfect for Busy Mornings
Mornings can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a delicious breakfast. If you're looking for a meal that’s both quick and satisfying, this Pancake Sausage Casserole is the perfect solution!
Ingredients
- Pancake Mix: You can use your favorite boxed pancake mix for convenience or make your own from scratch for a more personalized touch. The pancake batter forms the base of the casserole giving it that irresistible fluffy texture.
- Breakfast Sausage: Choose your turkey sausage or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer. You’ll want to cook and crumble it up, so the sausage flavor gets evenly distributed throughout the casserole.
- Eggs: The eggs are the magic ingredient that helps bind everything together creating a soft, custardy texture. They also add richness and flavor to the dish.
- Milk or Cream: For added moisture and creaminess milk is a must. You can use regular milk, half-and-half, or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk if preferred.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, monterey jack, or a cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup on top adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the savory sausage. It’s the finishing touch that takes this casserole to the next level.
- Optional Add-ins for extra flavor and variety:
- Chopped Vegetables: If you’re looking to add a little more nutrition consider tossing in some bell peppers, onions, or spinach. These add vibrant color and fresh flavors that complement the casserole beautifully.
- Herbs and Spices: A pinch of salt pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme or parsley brings out the savory flavors in the sausage and pancake batter. Feel free to get creative with seasonings based on your personal preferences.
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage and break it up into small crumbles with a spatula. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- If you're using a leaner sausage like turkey, you may want to add a little bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Drain any excess fat from the sausage once it's cooked.
- Set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly while you prepare the pancake batter.
- Step 2: Prepare the Pancake Batter
- In your mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, eggs, and milk until smooth. If you're using a boxed pancake mix, follow the instructions on the package for the correct liquid-to-dry ratio.
- For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
- Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease your baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Start by layering the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of the dish. You want to distribute it well so every bite gets a bit of that savory flavor.
- Pour the pancake batter over the sausage, ensuring that it covers everything. It will rise and puff up beautifully as it bakes.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole, ensuring an even coverage for that melty, golden finish.
- Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you like a crispier top, you can bake it for a few extra minutes, but be sure not to overcook it.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the casserole set so it won’t fall apart when you cut into it.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for that perfect balance of sweet and savory. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a side of fruit for a complete breakfast.