Pin it
Waking up to a batch of warm, pancake and sausage bake just out of the oven is always a treat. This simple dish mixes cozy pancakes with tasty, crumbly sausage – making it awesome for lazy mornings or feeding a bunch of people.
My folks go wild for this during holiday breaks. The first time I tried it was a jam-packed Sunday when we craved something special but weren’t in the mood to stand at the stove making pancakes all morning.
Delicious Ingredients
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly and boosts the savory factor. Go for sharp cheddar if you like bold flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice kick, especially tasty in cooler weather.
- Melted butter: Makes the batter rich and keeps it soft. European-style butter has an even deeper flavor.
- Pure maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness. Totally optional, but it’s so comforting.
- Vanilla extract: Gives the pancakes that homey, warm taste. Pure vanilla smells amazing.
- Large egg: Holds everything together and brings a nice color.
- Whole milk: Makes the batter moist and rich. Use fresh milk for a real taste boost.
- Pancake mix: Speeds things up and keeps it simple. Pick one with few weird ingredients.
- Breakfast sausage: Choose any kind you’re into – mild, spicy, or flavored. Make sure it’s fresh and smells right.
- Cooking spray or softened butter: Grease those corners so nothing sticks in your dish.
Tasty Step-by-Step Directions
- Cool and Serve:
- Let your bake chill for at least five minutes before you dig in. Slice it up and pour on a little maple syrup if you want extra sweetness.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Slide the dish into the center of your hot oven. Let it bake for twenty-five to thirty minutes until it’s deeply golden on top and a toothpick in the middle comes out clean.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour half the batter into your prepped pan and smooth it out. Layer all the sausage next, toss on the cheese if you like, and pour the remaining batter right on top to cover everything.
- Mix the Pancake Batter:
- In a big bowl, whisk pancake mix with milk, butter, egg, vanilla, plus the maple syrup and cinnamon if you want. Don’t worry if it’s a bit lumpy – that’s perfect.
- Cook the Sausage:
- Fry up the sausage in a skillet over medium. Break it into little chunks. Cook till it’s brown with no pink left, then drain off any extra grease.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spray or butter your 9x13 pan, making sure every corner is covered so nothing gets stuck.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Get your oven going at 375 so you hit the right temp for baking.
Pin it
The best bites? Crispy bits around the edges and little melted cheese surprises inside. This was actually the first dish my youngest helped make. Now, he always wants to be the whisking pro.
How to Store It
Once everything cools down, cover up the pan or move slices to a snug container. Stash in the fridge for up to three days. For longer, wrap pieces tightly and freeze for a month. Thaw it out overnight and warm up in the oven to keep it tasty.
Switch It Up
Try turkey or veggie sausage for a lighter bake. Oat or almond milk works instead of whole milk. Pick any pancake mix you want—gluten free works too. Monterey Jack or mozzarella are great if you’re not into cheddar.
Ways to Serve
Set out extra maple syrup or add a scoop of Greek yogurt or fresh berries on top. For bigger brunches, serve it with crispy hash browns or slices of fruit.
Pin it
The Story Behind It
Dishes like this one come from a long tradition of making hearty bakes for special moments. Whether it’s a get-together at church or a family holiday morning, these one-pan wonders are classic American comfort food.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Sure thing! If you’ve got sausage that’s already cooked, just break it up and use it—no need to heat it again before baking.
- → Is it necessary to add the maple syrup?
Totally up to you—maple syrup brings sweetness but it’s fine to skip or just let folks drizzle some once it’s served.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’re looking for a nicely browned top. Stick a toothpick in the center and if it comes out clean, you’re good to go.
- → Can this breakfast bake be prepared in advance?
Yep! Get it all set up ahead of time in the fridge, then just pop it in the oven when you want to serve it fresh and warm.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Try fresh fruit, maybe some yogurt, or a green salad to round out your breakfast table.