If you’re craving a cozy brunch that feels like a warm morning hug, this Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine layers of crispy, golden waffles nestled with sweet and savory maple-infused sausage, all smothered in melted cheddar cheese and a custardy egg mixture lightly sweetened with pure maple syrup. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve family or friends on a lazy weekend or special occasion. This dish is a heartfelt mash-up of two breakfast favorites, guaranteed to brighten your mornings and have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this casserole couldn’t be simpler, yet each component plays a crucial role in building that crave-worthy flavor. From the hearty maple sausage that adds a savory punch to the sweet notes of real maple syrup in both the sausage and custard, every ingredient works harmoniously to create a delightful taste and comforting texture.
- Frozen Eggo homestyle waffles: Cubed for a crispy, chewy base that absorbs the egg custard beautifully.
- Maple breakfast sausage (16-oz package): Provides that irresistible sweet and savory flavor essential to this recipe.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy, melty richness with a slight tang.
- Large eggs (6): The heart of the custard that binds everything together.
- Milk (1¼ cups): Keeps the custard light and fluffy.
- Maple syrup (¼ cup): Infuses the custard with a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by cooking the maple breakfast sausage in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns, allowing that beautiful caramelization to develop for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is key because it releases the sausage’s rich maple flavor and ensures a nice texture, so don’t rush it. Once it’s browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
Grease an 8-inch square baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup. Begin by arranging half of the cubed waffles in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Next, sprinkle half of the cooked sausage evenly over the waffles, then add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat this layering with the remaining waffles, sausage, and another ½ cup of cheese, building delicious layers of flavor and texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the six large eggs, milk, maple syrup, and a good pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and fully combined. This custard will soak into the waffles and sausage, giving the casserole its soft and luscious heart. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole to ensure every bite is perfectly moist.
Step 4: Chill Before Baking
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate it for at least one hour or up to one entire day. This resting period lets the waffles absorb the egg custard completely, intensifying the flavors and helping the casserole to bake evenly. It’s a smart make-ahead step that helps the dish reach its full delicious potential.
Step 5: Bake Until Set
Preheat your oven to 325ºF and remove the casserole from the fridge, unwrapping the plastic. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the casserole is fully set and golden on top. The cheese will be melted and gooey, and the edges of the waffles should be crisp and inviting. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly for easier slicing and serving.
How to Serve Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this casserole from delicious to divine. Fresh chopped parsley or chives add a bright pop of color and a gentle herbal note. For those who love a hint of sweetness, drizzle a little extra maple syrup or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving for an irresistible finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries, sliced oranges, or a mixed fruit salad that provide vibrant freshness and balance. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette or some light roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that contrasts the rich and savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, present the casserole in individual ramekins for personalized servings that feel special. You can also add layers of sautéed apples or cinnamon-spiced nuts between waffles for an extra seasonal twist. Another fun idea is to serve it buffet style with an array of toppings like whipped cream, nuts, and hot sauce to let everyone tailor their plates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, retaining its flavor and texture remarkably well. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out — more on that below.
Freezing
The Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the fully assembled but unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325ºF for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on top. If you’re short on time, microwave portions on medium power in 30-second increments but be aware it may soften the texture a bit. Reheating in an oven or toaster oven is best to preserve that wonderful contrast between crispy edges and tender center.
FAQs
Can I use fresh waffles instead of frozen Eggo waffles?
Absolutely! Fresh waffles can work too, but letting them cool completely before cubing will help prevent sogginess. Frozen waffles tend to hold up better in the custard and maintain a chewier texture.
Can I substitute the maple sausage for regular sausage?
You can, but keep in mind that using regular sausage will change the flavor profile. The maple sausage adds a signature sweet-savory combo that makes this casserole special. If you use plain sausage, consider adding a bit of maple syrup or maple extract for that classic touch.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or sautéed mushrooms and herbs for a savory vegetarian version. Just adjust seasoning and cooking time accordingly.
How far in advance can I prepare the casserole?
It can be fully assembled and refrigerated up to one day ahead before baking. This makes it perfect for prepping the night before a leisurely weekend brunch.
What can I do if my casserole turns out too soggy?
Next time, try baking it a little longer or at a slightly higher temperature for the last few minutes to crisp up the edges. Also, be sure to drain excess fat from the sausage and avoid overly wet ingredients to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe is genuinely a brunch lover’s dream come true. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor that feels effortlessly elegant yet totally doable for any home cook. I encourage you to give it a try next time you’re craving a breakfast that’s a bit out of the ordinary but always satisfying and crowd-pleasing. You might just find it becoming a new favorite that everyone requests again and again.
Print
Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes plus at least 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and delicious Maple Sausage and Waffle Casserole combining crispy cubes of frozen waffles with savory maple-flavored breakfast sausage, cheddar cheese, and a sweet maple-egg custard. This baked breakfast casserole is perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion, offering a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors with a tender, baked texture.
Ingredients
Waffles
- 8 frozen Eggo homestyle waffles, cubed
Sausage
- 1 (16-oz) package maple breakfast sausage
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1¼ cups milk
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the maple breakfast sausage. Break it apart using a wooden spoon and cook until the sausage is well browned and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Assemble the casserole layers: Grease an 8-inch square baking dish. Layer half of the cubed waffles evenly in a single layer on the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked sausage over the waffles, then top with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining waffles, sausage, and ½ cup more cheese on top.
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper until the mixture is combined and smooth.
- Combine and chill: Pour the egg custard evenly over the assembled casserole layers. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the waffles to soak up the custard. You may refrigerate it for up to 1 day if preparing ahead.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 325ºF (163ºC). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Using frozen Eggo homestyle waffles adds a great texture contrast to the casserole. Fresh waffles may result in a soggier outcome.
- Maple breakfast sausage adds a subtle sweetness that complements the maple syrup in the custard.
- You can prepare the casserole the night before for easy weekday breakfast prep.
- For extra richness, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
- Add-ins like chopped apples or pecans can add more texture and flavor if desired.
- This casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave and can be frozen for up to one month.
