Wake up to this easy, make-ahead breakfast casserole that combines fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and maple syrup in one irresistible dish. Perfect for lazy weekends, holiday brunches, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All-in-one breakfast – No flipping pancakes!
Make-ahead magic – Assemble the night before
Kid-approved – Sweet + savory = happy families
Customizable – Add fruit, nuts, or cheese
Ingredients & Substitutions
Base Recipe
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked & crumbled
- 2 cups (250g) pancake mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (+ more for serving)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 apple, diced
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Sausage
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned. Drain fat and set aside.
2. Make the Batter
- Whisk together pancake mix, milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir in cooked sausage (and any add-ins).
3. Bake to Golden Perfection
- Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 mins until puffed and golden.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup and a pat of butter.
- Garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar.
Pro Tips
Make-ahead: Refrigerate unbaked overnight (add 5-10 mins to bake time).
Crispy edges: For extra crunch, bake in a cast-iron skillet.
Flavor boost: Use vanilla almond milk or add a dash of nutmeg.
Variations
Bacon Lover’s: Swap sausage for crispy bacon.
Tropical Twist: Add sliced bananas + coconut flakes.
Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage + a pinch of cayenne.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pancake batter?
Yes! Substitute 2 cups of your favorite pancake batter.
How long does it keep?
3 days refrigerated (reheat in oven or microwave).
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze baked slices for up to 1 month (reheat at 350°F).
Final Thoughts
This Pancake Sausage Casserole is breakfast simplified—all the cozy flavors you love, without the stovetop mess. Perfect for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or anytime you want to start the day right!
Pro tip: Double the batch—leftovers reheat beautifully!