Pancake Sausage Casserole

Pancake Sausage Casserole

Pancake Sausage Casserole is a fun and hearty twist on your traditional breakfast. It combines fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and a rich egg mixture to create a casserole that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Great for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner!

Ingredients:

• For the Pancake Batter:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tablespoon sugar

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 1/4 cups milk

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the Sausage Layer:

  • 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

• For the Egg Custard:

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups milk

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage:

   • In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. If using, add the chopped onion and cook until both the sausage is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.

   • Drain excess grease and set the sausage mixture aside.

2. Make the Pancake Batter:

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

   • Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. The batter will be slightly lumpy, which is fine.

3. Prepare the Casserole:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

   • Pour a small amount of pancake batter (about 1/2 cup) into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish to create a thin pancake layer. Spread it out evenly.

   • Next, evenly distribute the cooked sausage mixture over the batter. You can also sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage if you like a cheesy casserole.

4. Add the Pancake Batter:

   • Pour the remaining pancake batter over the sausage layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it out, covering the sausage completely.

5. Prepare the Egg Custard:

   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Pour this egg mixture evenly over the top of the pancake and sausage layers in the casserole dish.

6. Bake the Casserole:

   • Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and cooked through (a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean). The casserole should puff up as it bakes.

7. Serve:

   • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares and serving.

   • Optionally, top with syrup or fresh fruit for extra flavor.

Tips:

• Cheese Options: You can add different cheeses, such as shredded mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss, for variety.

• Sausage Options: Feel free to use turkey sausage or any other ground meat if you prefer a leaner version. You can also make this vegetarian by using a meat substitute like crumbled plant-based sausage.

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next morning. This makes it even more convenient for a busy morning.

This Pancake Sausage Casserole is a fun and filling dish that combines the best of breakfast in one bite. Enjoy it for a family breakfast, brunch, or even a special holiday meal!