Transforming Thanksgiving dinner leftovers into a delightful new meal is an art form, and this **Leftover Stuffing Breakfast Casserole** stands as a masterpiece. It’s the ultimate solution for repurposing rich, savory sausage stuffing into a hearty, comforting breakfast or brunch. This casserole is not just easy to prepare; it’s a flavor-packed dish that promises to impress a crowd with minimal effort, making it ideal for relaxed weekend mornings, holiday gatherings, or simply when you crave a truly satisfying meal.
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Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Breakfast Casserole
For many, the stuffing is truly the unsung hero of the Thanksgiving feast. I confess, it’s often my absolute favorite part of the meal, right alongside creamy roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Honestly, give me those two dishes, and I don’t even miss the Thanksgiving turkey! This deep love for stuffing often leads me to make extra batches, precisely so I can savor the delightful leftovers. And there’s truly no better way to enjoy that flavorful excess than by transforming it into this incredible breakfast casserole.
This recipe isn’t just a clever way to handle leftovers; it’s a culinary experience you’ll want to revisit time and again. Here’s why this casserole will quickly become a household favorite:
- Effortlessly Simple: With your stuffing already prepared, this dish requires just three additional core ingredients and comes together in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want a substantial, home-cooked meal without the fuss.
- Feeds a Crowd: A single batch generously serves up to 12 people, making it an excellent choice for impromptu brunches, holiday breakfasts, or simply feeding a large family. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that minimizes your time in the kitchen.
- Bursting with Flavor: Each forkful delivers a harmonious blend of savory, herbaceous notes from the stuffing, complemented by the rich creaminess of eggs and milk, and topped with gooey, melted cheese. It’s a comforting flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
- Minimizes Food Waste: This easy breakfast recipe provides a fantastic opportunity to breathe new life into leftover stuffing, ensuring not a single delicious crumb goes to waste. It’s a sustainable and incredibly tasty approach to meal planning.
Prepare yourself for a truly satisfying dish that never disappoints. Once you try this stuffing breakfast casserole, you might find yourself intentionally making extra stuffing throughout the year, just so you can whip up this delightful breakfast whenever the craving strikes!
Key Ingredients for a Perfect Casserole
This casserole shines because it takes advantage of already flavorful components. While simple, choosing the right ingredients can elevate your breakfast experience. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:
- Leftover Stuffing: The foundation of our casserole. While any stuffing will work, I highly recommend using a sausage stuffing. The robust flavor and heartiness of sausage stuffing add an extra layer of richness and makes for a more substantial and satisfying breakfast. If your stuffing is particularly moist, it’s a good idea to spread it out on a baking sheet and let it dry out slightly for 10-15 minutes before assembling the casserole; this helps it absorb the egg mixture better without becoming soggy.
- Eggs: These are crucial for binding all the ingredients together, creating a cohesive and custardy texture that defines a great casserole. The eggs also add a significant boost of protein, making this a truly filling meal. We use a generous amount (10 large eggs) to ensure every bit of stuffing is enveloped in creamy goodness.
- Milk: The milk contributes to the richness and overall moisture of the casserole. For the most indulgent flavor, I recommend using whole milk or 2% milk. However, feel free to use any type of milk you have on hand. For a savory twist or if you prefer a less creamy texture, you can also swap the milk out for an equal amount of chicken broth.
- Cheese: Cheese adds a wonderful savory depth and a delightful gooey texture once baked. I personally love the bold, sharp flavor of mature cheddar, which pairs beautifully with the savory stuffing. However, don’t limit yourself! Almost any melty cheese will taste fantastic. Consider Monterey Jack for mildness, Gruyere for nutty complexity, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for an extra cheesy pull.
Effortless Preparation: How to Make Breakfast Casserole with Leftover Stuffing
Since the most time-consuming part—making the stuffing—is already done, assembling this breakfast casserole is incredibly quick and straightforward. It’s a perfect “dump and bake” recipe that yields impressive results with minimal fuss.
Before you begin, ensure your oven is preheated to a cozy 350°F (177°C). Also, prepare an 8×11.5-inch or 9×13-inch baking pan by generously greasing it with cooking spray. This step is essential to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Step 1: Layer the Stuffing. Begin by evenly spreading your leftover stuffing across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press it down gently to form a compact layer. This provides a sturdy base for our casserole.
- Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, milk, and half of the grated cheese until well combined. A fork or a balloon whisk works perfectly for this. Ensure the eggs are thoroughly beaten to achieve a uniform texture in the casserole.
- Step 3: Pour and Top. Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layer of stuffing in the baking dish. Gently tilt the dish if needed to ensure the liquid permeates the stuffing. Then, sprinkle the remaining half of the grated cheese generously over the top of the casserole. This cheese will create a beautiful golden crust.
- Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection. Place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, your casserole is ready.
Pro Tip: Preventing Over-Browning
Keep a close eye on your casserole during the final stages of baking. If you notice the top layer of cheese or stuffing starting to brown too quickly, simply cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will protect the top from further browning while allowing the eggs to continue cooking through evenly. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want a crispier top.
Essential Tips for a Flawless Breakfast Casserole
While this recipe is incredibly forgiving, a few simple tips can elevate your leftover stuffing breakfast casserole from good to absolutely unforgettable. Pay attention to these details to ensure a perfect result every time:
- Start with a Stellar Stuffing: The quality of your stuffing significantly impacts the final taste of the casserole, as it’s truly the star of the show. While store-bought options can work, there’s nothing quite like the depth of flavor from a homemade stuffing. Whether it’s herb-infused, cornbread-based, or our recommended sausage stuffing, ensure it’s a stuffing you genuinely love on its own. The better the stuffing, the better the casserole.
- Grate Your Own Cheese for Superior Melt: This is a small step that makes a big difference. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose or potato starch, which can prevent them from melting smoothly and evenly. These agents can also slightly mute the cheese’s flavor. By grating a block of cheese yourself, you’ll achieve a much creamier, richer melt and a more vibrant cheese flavor that truly enhances the casserole.
- Customize with Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative with additional ingredients! This casserole is incredibly versatile. Consider folding in some sautéed vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. Cooked breakfast meats like crumbled bacon or diced ham would also make fantastic additions, boosting the savory profile even further.
- Mind Your Moisture – Avoid Overbaking: The key to a moist and tender casserole is knowing when it’s done. Overbaking can lead to a dry, rubbery texture, which we definitely want to avoid! Keep a close eye on your oven. The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set (a knife inserted into the center comes out clean), and the top is beautifully golden brown. The center should have a slight jiggle, but not be liquid.
- Adjust for a Smaller Portion: If you don’t need to feed a crowd and prefer a smaller batch, you can easily halve this recipe and bake it in an 8×8-inch baking dish. Alternatively, for a completely different cooking method, you can use leftover stuffing to make an Instant Pot breakfast casserole, which offers a quick and easy solution for smaller servings.
Smart Make-Ahead Strategies for Stress-Free Mornings
One of the best features of this leftover stuffing breakfast casserole is its incredible adaptability for make-ahead preparation. Whether you prefer to assemble it the night before or bake it entirely in advance, these tips will ensure a delicious and convenient meal when you need it most.
- To Prepare in Advance (Assemble & Refrigerate): This method is perfect for busy mornings when you want to minimize prep time. Simply assemble the casserole following all the instructions up to the point of baking. Once the stuffing is layered, the egg mixture poured, and the cheese sprinkled on top, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Refrigerate it overnight, or for up to 24 hours. The next morning, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 30 minutes to an hour to come closer to room temperature before baking. Then, bake as normal according to the recipe instructions. This helps ensure even baking.
- To Bake and Reheat (Bake Completely Ahead of Time): This option is fantastic if you want to have a fully cooked meal ready to go. Follow the instructions to bake the casserole completely until golden and set. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. This cooling process is crucial for preventing condensation when storing. Once cool, cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers and refrigerate. When ready to serve the next day, simply reheat portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. It will taste just as good as fresh!
Storing Your Casserole for Lasting Freshness
Ensuring your delicious casserole remains fresh and flavorful for future meals is simple with these storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffing breakfast casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Freezing for Longer Enjoyment: This casserole freezes exceptionally well! Once completely cooled, you can either wrap the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or divide it into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags. Properly stored, it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. This is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, hearty breakfast long after the holidays.
- Reheating Thawed Casserole: To reheat from frozen, allow the casserole to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, place it back into a baking dish (if not already in one), cover it loosely with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. If the top appears to be browning too much during reheating, keep it covered with foil until it’s warmed to your liking. Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave, usually taking 2-4 minutes depending on the serving size.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Casserole
A soggy breakfast casserole typically stems from one of two common issues: either too much liquid was used in the egg mixture, or the casserole was underbaked. When preparing, ensure you’re using the specified amount of milk and eggs to coat the stuffing without submerging it. The stuffing should be moist, not swimming in liquid. During baking, make sure your oven temperature is accurate and allow the casserole to bake fully until the eggs are completely set. If a knife inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s done. Covering it with foil if the top browns too quickly can help ensure the center cooks through without over-browning the crust.
This recipe is incredibly hearty and flavorful on its own, making it a perfectly satisfying meal! However, if you’re serving it as part of a larger breakfast or brunch spread, consider pairing it with lighter, contrasting elements. Excellent options include fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage links, a simple green salad for freshness, or even sweet pastries like cherry cheese danishes. For a healthy complement, a morning boost green smoothie would balance the richness beautifully.
Eggs play a crucial role as a binder in both traditional stuffing recipes and this casserole. They help hold all the ingredients together, preventing the stuffing from crumbling and giving the entire dish a cohesive, structured form. Beyond binding, eggs also contribute to the overall richness, moisture, and tender texture of the casserole, creating that delightful custardy consistency that makes breakfast casseroles so appealing. They ensure the center remains moist and doesn’t dry out during baking.
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost flavor, texture, and nutrition. Consider sautéing diced bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach before folding them into your stuffing layer. This ensures they cook through properly and don’t release too much moisture into the casserole while baking. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top after baking can also add a fresh finish.
A standard 9×13-inch (or 8×11.5-inch) baking dish is ideal for this recipe, yielding a casserole of good thickness and ensuring even cooking. Glass, ceramic, or metal baking pans all work well. Just be sure to grease the pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to prevent any sticking, especially since stuffing can be quite dense and prone to adhering to the pan.
Explore More Delicious Breakfast Recipes
If you loved this comforting casserole, you might enjoy exploring other fantastic breakfast and brunch ideas. Expand your repertoire with these delightful recipes:
- Savory Ham and Cheese Quiche
- Classic Eggs Benedict with Homemade Hollandaise Sauce
- Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes from Scratch
- Crispy Homemade Waffles Recipe
Leftover Stuffing Breakfast Casserole
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Print Recipe
Ingredients
-
4-5 cups
leftover stuffing Note 1: Any kind of stuffing can be used, but sausage stuffing adds a heartier flavor. -
10
large eggs -
½ cup (120 ml)
milk Note 2: Whole milk or 2% milk is recommended for richness, but chicken broth can be substituted for a savory alternative. -
½ cup
grated cheese Any kind, sharp cheddar is preferred for its bold flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease an 8×11.5-inch (or 9×13-inch) baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Spread the leftover stuffing evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a solid layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and half of the grated cheese until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture carefully and evenly over the stuffing in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully cooked and set, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
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Tips & Notes
Milk Options: Use whole milk or 2% for richest flavor, or substitute with chicken broth for a savory alternative.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- Assemble the casserole fully, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking in the morning.
- Alternatively, bake the casserole completely the night before, allow it to cool, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat it in the morning; it reheats beautifully.
Storing Tips:
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze leftover casserole for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
- Reheat thawed casserole covered with foil for 15-20 minutes in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.
Smaller Batch: For a smaller serving, this recipe can be adapted to an Instant Pot Breakfast Casserole.
Nutrition Information
This leftover stuffing breakfast casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an ingenious way to extend the joy of your holiday meals or simply enjoy a comforting, flavorful breakfast any day of the year. With its simple ingredients, minimal prep, and impressive results, it’s a dish that caters to both ease and indulgence. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience firsthand how effortlessly you can transform simple leftovers into a truly remarkable meal. Happy cooking!