Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a truly spectacular breakfast that feeds a crowd and feels like a cozy morning hug, look no further than this Pancake Sausage Casserole. Imagine all the best parts of a classic pancake breakfast—fluffy pancakes, sizzling sausage, gooey cheese—layered together and baked into a savory-sweet masterpiece. This casserole is a showstopper for brunches, lazy weekends, or sleepovers, and it’s guaranteed to win over both kids and grownups. With a heavenly combo of textures and flavors in every bite, you’ll want to make Pancake Sausage Casserole more than once!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity wins the day with these ingredients! Each item is carefully chosen to bring out the best texture, mouthwatering flavor, and irresistible cheesiness in your Pancake Sausage Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need for a crowd-pleasing dish that looks as gorgeous as it tastes.

• Pancake mix: The foundation for tender, golden pancakes and the main element that brings all the layers together.
• Milk: Adds a creamy base to the batter for moist, fluffy pancakes.
• Large eggs: These help bind the pancake batter and give the casserole structure.
• Melted butter: For richness and to keep the pancakes soft and flavorful.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash for warmth and a touch of sweetness.
• Breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled: Savory sausage crumbles bring hearty flavor and a satisfying bite to every layer.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly, offering a sharp, creamy kick to the casserole.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melts into silky, stretchy layers that complement the cheddar.
• Cream cheese, softened (optional): Stir in for extra richness if you want a hint of tang and ultra-decadent texture.
• Butter for greasing: Ensures nothing sticks and adds a subtle flavor boost to the finished product.
• Extra cheese for topping: Bake to golden, bubbly perfection on top for that picture-perfect finish.

How to Make Pancake Sausage Casserole

Step 1: Make the Pancake Layers

Begin by bringing together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Whisk until the batter is smooth with no lumps. Next, heat a non-stick pan or griddle to medium and pour enough batter to create 6 to 8 thin pancakes, each about 8 or 9 inches across. Cook them until they’re deeply golden on both sides. Let your pancakes cool slightly—this ensures the layers stay distinct and don’t steam in the casserole.

Step 2: Prepare for Assembly

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter—you don’t want any of that cheesy goodness sticking! In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Having everything prepped and nearby will make layering the Pancake Sausage Casserole smooth and fun.

Step 3: Layer the ‘Lasagna’

Start assembling your masterpiece by placing two pancakes at the base of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle a third of the cooked, crumbled sausage evenly over the pancakes, then follow with a healthy handful (a third) of your cheese mixture. Repeat with another two pancakes, another layer of sausage, and more cheese. Finish with the last pancakes, the rest of the sausage, and top with all the remaining cheese. If you’re using cream cheese, dot it between layers for a delightful creamy bite.

Step 4: Bake

Cover your assembled Pancake Sausage Casserole with foil to keep in those lovely flavors and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes. Watch for the cheese to get bubbly and gloriously golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes set—it’ll cut into lovely, neat squares.

Step 5: Serve

Slice the warm Pancake Sausage Casserole into hearty squares and serve immediately. For a sweet touch, drizzle with maple syrup, or for a little kick, try a few drops of hot sauce. This dish is as delightfully versatile as it is delicious!

How to Serve Pancake Sausage Casserole

Garnishes

Add a finishing flourish to every serving with simple but irresistible garnishes. A light dusting of extra shredded cheese, a handful of sliced fresh chives, or even a drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top works magic. For a pop of color, try a few halved cherry tomatoes or a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Side Dishes

To make the meal complete, serve Pancake Sausage Casserole with a crisp fruit salad, some roasted breakfast potatoes, or a refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette. Each simple side is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, turning breakfast into a feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Make this casserole the star of your next brunch buffet by cutting it into bite-size squares for easy serving. Or, stack pieces high and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a sweet-meets-savory celebration. You can even serve it in individual ramekins for a fancy, personal touch that’s perfect for special occasions!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pancake Sausage Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 4 days, ready for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack.

Freezing

Want to plan ahead? You absolutely can freeze Pancake Sausage Casserole! Cut cooled slices, wrap each tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then tuck into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring refrigerated or thawed casserole pieces back to life, just microwave individual portions in 30-second bursts until warm. For larger quantities, cover with foil and heat in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. The cheese will melt again and everything will taste fresh-from-the-oven delightful!

FAQs

Can I make Pancake Sausage Casserole the night before?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake as instructed. It’s a huge time-saver for early mornings or entertaining.

What other cheeses work well in Pancake Sausage Casserole?

Feel free to get creative! Try pepper jack for a little heat, Swiss for nutty depth, or even a little gouda for an extra-creamy finish. The beauty of this dish is how versatile it is with whatever cheese you love most.

Can I use turkey or vegetarian sausage?

Definitely! Both work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure to fully cook and crumble your alternative sausage before layering it into the casserole. You’ll get all the flavor with a personal twist.

Is Pancake Sausage Casserole kid-friendly?

Kids love this dish! The mild pancakes, savory sausage, and gooey cheese layers are always a hit with little eaters. You can even let them help with layering for a fun, hands-on kitchen project.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Of course! Sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even some baby spinach tuck perfectly between the layers, adding pops of color and extra nutrients without sacrificing that irresistible flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried a Pancake Sausage Casserole before, get ready to fall in love! It’s a truly joyful dish that brings all your breakfast favorites together, and it’s sure to make any morning feel extra special. Give it a try and share the warmth with someone you love!

Print