Looking for a way to simplify breakfast while delivering a crowd-pleasing, sweet-and-savory dish? The Pancake Sausage Casserole is your answer. This dish brings together two breakfast classics — fluffy pancakes and sizzling breakfast sausage — in one warm, comforting casserole. Drizzled with maple syrup and served hot from the oven, it’s ideal for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or any time you want to treat yourself or your family to a hearty meal without standing over the stove.
With easy prep and minimal ingredients, this breakfast casserole combines the flavors of a diner-style breakfast into one baking dish. Plus, it’s easy to adapt, make ahead, and even freeze. Let’s dive into what makes this casserole a game-changer for breakfast lovers.
Why You’ll Love Pancake Sausage Casserole
- One-Dish Meal: Combines pancakes and sausage in a single casserole dish.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of these are pantry or fridge staples.
- Quick Prep: Ready for the oven in under 15 minutes.
- Feeds a Crowd: Serves 6–8 easily.
- Customizable: Add cheese, veggies, or switch up the sausage.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the night before and bake in the morning.
Ingredients Breakdown (US Cups & Units)
- 2 cups pancake mix (use your favorite brand)
- 1¼ cups milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (links or ground)
- ½ cup maple syrup (plus more for serving)
- Butter or oil (for greasing skillet or baking dish)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until fully browned and cooked through. If using links, slice them after cooking. Drain excess grease and set the sausage aside.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, milk, and egg. Whisk until smooth. The batter should be slightly thicker than pancake batter but pourable. If needed, add a splash of milk to thin it out.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the batter. Drizzle ½ cup of maple syrup over the top. Optional: Sprinkle on shredded cheese or chopped green onions.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The casserole will puff up slightly and firm up as it cools.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of butter.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~12g
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Sugar: ~10g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~500mg
Tips for the Best Pancake Sausage Casserole
- Use Good-Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage greatly affects the casserole — go for seasoned breakfast sausage for the best taste.
- Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds richness.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- Go Bold with Spices: A touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or black pepper can enhance flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Cheesy Bacon Twist: Replace sausage with chopped bacon and add 1 cup shredded cheese.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to the batter.
- Sweet & Spicy: Use spicy sausage and add a drizzle of honey before baking.
- Apple-Cinnamon Delight: Add chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a low-carb pancake mix and turkey sausage.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 300°F until heated through.
- Freeze: Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in oven.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the night before (minus the syrup), cover and refrigerate. In the morning, drizzle syrup and bake.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright, healthy side to balance the richness.
- Scrambled Eggs: For extra protein and flavor.
- Greek Yogurt with Honey: Adds creaminess and a touch of tang.
- Coffee or Fresh Juice: To complete a full breakfast spread.
When to Serve Pancake Sausage Casserole
- Weekend Brunches: Easy to prepare and satisfying.
- Holiday Mornings: Minimal effort, maximum comfort.
- Potluck Breakfasts: Transport easily and serve warm.
- Meal Prep for the Week: Slice and store for ready-to-go mornings.
- Kid-Friendly Dinners: Breakfast-for-dinner is always a hit!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever debated between pancakes and sausage at breakfast, this Pancake Sausage Casserole ends the debate. It delivers the best of both worlds in a hearty, fuss-free format. Sweet, savory, fluffy, and satisfying, it’s a winning recipe that deserves a permanent place in your breakfast rotation.
Perfect for everything from lazy Sunday mornings to high-energy holiday brunches, this dish proves that with a few ingredients and a baking dish, you can create something truly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or just making leftovers for yourself, it’s a recipe that adapts to your needs and always delivers comfort and joy.
So warm up the oven, grab your favorite syrup, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast casserole that’s as simple as it is satisfying.