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The fireman's breakfast casserole packs big flavors into every bite. To start, you need quality ingredients. The base is crumbled breakfast sausage. I choose a flavorful sausage, as it adds depth.

Fireman's Overnight Breakfast Casserole With Country Gravy

Start your mornings right with the Fireman's Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Flavorful Gravy! This easy and hearty recipe combines savory sausage, creamy gravy, and day-old sourdough for a comforting dish that’s perfect for brunch or a busy weekday. Discover simple steps to create a delicious breakfast that your family will love. Click through to explore the full recipe and make your breakfast feel like a warm hug today!

Ingredients
  

1 lb breakfast sausage, crumbled

8 large eggs

2 cups milk

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

6 cups day-old bread, cubed (preferably sourdough)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sautéed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms)

2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the dish)

For the Country Gravy:

¼ cup butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

    Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until well combined.

      Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheddar cheese over the bread.

        Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the egg mixture.

          Preheat Oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

            Bake the Casserole: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden brown.

              Prepare the Country Gravy: While the casserole is baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir continuously until the gravy thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

                Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve each slice topped generously with the homemade country gravy.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins (including overnight soak) | Servings: 8-10

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve slices on individual plates with a ladle of gravy poured over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!