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
Scale
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.
