There is something truly comforting and downright delicious about waking up to a warm, hearty breakfast that feels like a special occasion every single time. This Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—combining fluffy, cinnamon-tinged pancakes with savory, perfectly browned sausage in one unforgettable, baked masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just spoiling yourself on a weekend morning, this casserole brings together simplicity and indulgence with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredients are, yet they come together to create layers of texture, flavor, and a touch of sweetness that will make your taste buds dance. Each element plays its role perfectly—sausage for savoriness, pancake mix for fluffiness, and a hint of maple syrup for a subtle kiss of sweetness.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy): Provides rich, savory flavor and a satisfying meaty bite.
- 1 1/2 cups pancake mix (or homemade equivalent): The base that turns fluffy and golden to cradle the sausage beautifully.
- 1 1/4 cups milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender batter.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness to the texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Offers a subtle sweetness that balances the sausage’s savoriness.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Adds depth of flavor and a lovely buttery richness.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving): Sweetens the dish naturally and makes every bite irresistible.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts on top for a gooey, flavorful finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, rounding out the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a slight kick to the overall taste.
How to Make Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish
First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the casserole slides out effortlessly once baked.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Grab a large skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces and cook until it’s nicely browned and completely cooked through. Once done, drain any excess fat for a less greasy finish and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter
In a large bowl, combine your pancake mix (or the homemade flour mixture), milk, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth with no lumps. This batter will be velvety and fragrant, hinting at the deliciousness to come.
Step 4: Layer the Sausage in the Baking Dish
Spread the cooked sausage evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. This savory layer creates the perfect foundation beneath the fluffy pancake batter.
Step 5: Pour the Batter Over the Sausage
Slowly pour the pancake batter right over the sausage layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This layering is what makes the casserole such a crowd-pleaser, combining flavors in every single bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a nicely set casserole. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, signaling it’s ready.
Step 7: Add Cheesy Goodness (If Using)
If you’re adding cheddar cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts and bubbles to delicious perfection.
Step 8: Cool, Slice, and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes once out of the oven. Slice it into squares and drizzle with extra maple syrup just before serving for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory sausage.
How to Serve Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can turn this casserole into a visually striking dish. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries adds brightness and freshness, while a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt gives a creamy coolness that pairs beautifully with warm maple syrup.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it with a simple mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some roasted breakfast potatoes for an easy, crispy texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving mini versions of this Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming brunch presentation. You can also cut the casserole into fun shapes using cookie cutters to make breakfast extra special for kids or guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or lunches.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save some for later, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. Slice into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works too—just cover the piece to maintain moisture and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works just as well, offering a leaner alternative without sacrificing the savory flavor that makes this casserole so delicious.
What if I don’t have pancake mix on hand?
No worries—you can easily make your own with all-purpose flour, a bit of sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. It’s a simple homemade alternative that works perfectly.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pancake mix or substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to adapt this recipe to your dietary needs without compromising taste.
Is it possible to prepare the casserole the night before?
You can assemble it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge, but it’s best to bake it fresh in the morning for the fluffiest texture.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Feel free to toss in some chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach with the sausage for a veggie boost and extra color and flavor in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to dishes when I want a crowd-pleasing, comforting breakfast that feels both homely and a little bit special. It’s simple to prepare, absolutely delicious, and flexible enough to make your own. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pancake Sausage Casserole combines savory breakfast sausage with fluffy pancake batter baked into a delicious, hearty dish perfect for brunch or a family breakfast. The casserole is flavorful, easy to prepare, and can be topped with melted cheddar cheese and maple syrup for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (mild or spicy)
Batter
- 1 1/2 cups pancake mix (or 1 cup of all-purpose flour + 1 tablespoon sugar + 1 teaspoon baking powder + 1/2 teaspoon baking soda)
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix (or the combination of flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda), milk, eggs, vanilla extract, melted butter, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the cooked sausage evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a savory base layer.
- Add Batter: Pour the pancake batter evenly over the sausage, ensuring even coverage for consistent cooking.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the casserole in the last 5 minutes of baking so it melts and forms a bubbly, cheesy crust.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving to enhance sweetness and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute pancake mix with a homemade dry mix of all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda as specified.
- Using mild or spicy sausage affects the casserole’s overall heat—choose according to your preference.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before and baked the next morning for convenience.
- Optional cheddar cheese adds a savory richness but can be omitted for a simpler flavor.
- If you prefer, use turkey sausage for a leaner alternative.
- Maple syrup complements the savory sausage and pancake flavors perfectly but can be served on the side to control sweetness.
