Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole Recipe 

This overnight Italian breakfast casserole is a flavorful and comforting make-ahead dish that’s perfect for mornings when you want something delicious without the stress. Loaded with Italian sausage, cheese, herbs, and bread soaked in a rich egg mixture, it bakes into a golden, cheesy masterpiece. Quick to assemble the night before and effortless to bake in the morning, it’s ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or busy weekends.

What Is an Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole?

An overnight Italian breakfast casserole is a baked egg dish prepared ahead of time by layering Italian-style ingredients such as sausage, mozzarella, Parmesan, and crusty bread. The mixture sits in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard. The next morning, it’s baked until puffed, golden, and perfectly set — offering a savory breakfast full of Italian flair.

Other Easy Breakfast Recipes

• Make-Ahead Baked Greek Omelet
• Southern Grits Breakfast Casserole
• Baked Chicken and Rice Casserole
• Pancake Sausage Casserole

Reasons to Try Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Make-ahead convenience – Prep at night and bake in the morning.
• Full of Italian flavor – Packed with sausage, herbs, and cheese.
• Perfect for gatherings – Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
• Great texture – Crispy on top, soft and cheesy inside.
• Customizable ingredients – Add vegetables or different cheeses easily.

Ingredients Needed to Make Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• 8 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
• 1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cups cubed Italian or French bread (day-old works best)
• 1 small red bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Butter or non-stick spray for greasing
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the sausage

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

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

Add olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the onion and red bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Mix the egg custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the bread cubes on the bottom, layer with half of the sausage, vegetables, and cheeses. Repeat the layers, then pour the egg mixture evenly over everything. Gently press the bread down to absorb the liquid.

Step 5: Refrigerate overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) to let the flavors combine.

Step 6: Bake the casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

What Goes Well With Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Fresh fruit salad – Lightens up the meal perfectly.
• Garlic toast or crusty bread – Great for scooping up the cheesy sauce.
• Mixed green salad – Adds freshness and balance.
• Tomato juice or espresso – Complements the Italian flavors.
• Roasted potatoes – For a heartier breakfast spread.

Key Tips for Making Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old bread – It absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy.
• Drain sausage well – Keeps the casserole light and not greasy.
• Let it rest before baking – Helps the custard absorb evenly.
• Cover if browning too quickly – Use foil during the last 10 minutes if needed.
• Cool before slicing – Keeps portions neat and structured.
• Add more herbs – Basil, oregano, or thyme add extra depth.

Creative Variations of Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Vegetarian version – Skip the sausage and add mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.
• Spicy option – Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
• Caprese style – Add cherry tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Cheese-lover’s twist – Mix in ricotta or provolone for extra richness.
• Low-carb version – Use cauliflower florets instead of bread.

Storage Guidelines for Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze portions – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Cool completely before storing – Prevents condensation.
• Label and date – Helps track freshness easily.

Reheating Tips for Overnight Italian Breakfast Casserole

• Oven method – Reheat covered at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave option – Warm individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
• From frozen – Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until hot.

Nutritional Value (per serving):

• Calories: ~340
• Protein: 26 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fat: 21 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 540 mg

FAQs

Can I prepare an Italian breakfast casserole without refrigerating overnight?

Yes, you can bake it right after assembling, but refrigerating it overnight allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture and enhances the flavor. If baking immediately, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.

How do you keep an overnight breakfast casserole from getting soggy?

Use day-old or slightly toasted bread so it holds its structure. Avoid adding too much liquid, and drain any excess grease from the sausage and vegetables before layering.

Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?

Absolutely! Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but you can use provolone, cheddar, or even ricotta for extra creaminess. Mixing cheeses adds more depth of flavor.

How long can I keep an overnight Italian breakfast casserole in the fridge before baking?

You can safely refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Final Words

This easy overnight Italian breakfast casserole delivers all the comfort of a traditional Italian meal in a simple breakfast form. With layers of sausage, cheese, and bread baked in a flavorful egg custard, it’s the perfect make-ahead dish for any occasion. Just prep it the night before, bake it in the morning, and enjoy a warm, savory breakfast everyone will love.

Print