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There’s just something wonderful about starting your morning with the happy smell of a pancake sausage bake bubbling away in the oven. This laid-back dish mixes the yum of crumbled sausage with classic sweet pancakes, making it ideal for lazy weekends or big family breakfasts.
During the holidays, this is our go-to. I actually made it for the first time on a hectic Sunday when everyone wanted something special but nobody wanted to stand by the stove flipping pancakes.
Cozy Ingredients
- Cooking spray or soft butter: You’ll want to grease that pan so nothing sticks and cleanup is easy
- Pancake mix: Use your trusted boxed mix without lots of added stuff
- Large egg: Helps hold it all together. A rich yolk makes it taste and look even better
- Pure maple syrup: Totally optional but adds a deep sweetness if you want
- Melted butter: Makes the inside soft and a bit rich—European-style has more flavor
- Breakfast sausage: Mild, spicy, or fancy—it’s your call. Just steer clear if it smells weird
- Ground cinnamon: For that cozy, spiced-up touch, especially when chilly out
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess. Always tastes best fresh
- Vanilla extract: Brings out the warm, comfy tastes. Go for real vanilla if you can
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds gooey saltiness. Sharp cheddar pops but use your favorite
Easy Step-by-Step Directions
- Let It Cool, Then Serve Up:
- Once done, wait at least five minutes before slicing so you get nice, tidy pieces. Serve it warm, and if you’re feeling it, drizzle with maple syrup for that breakfast hit.
- Bake It:
- Slide your casserole into the oven’s middle rack and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the top gets golden brown and sticking in a toothpick comes out clean.
- Put it Together:
- First, pour half the pancake mix into your prepared pan so it covers the bottom. Scatter all your browned sausage over it, then sprinkle on that cheese. Finish by pouring the last bit of batter on top so everything’s tucked in.
- Stir up the Pancake Batter:
- Mix up your pancake mix with milk, egg, vanilla, butter, maple syrup (if you want) and cinnamon. Stir just enough—lumps are totally fine here.
- Brown the Sausage:
- Cook your sausage over medium heat until it’s crumbly and there’s no pink left. Drain any fat so it doesn’t get oily.
- Get the Pan Ready:
- Grab a 9x13 pan and grease it well with cooking spray or butter, making sure you reach the corners
- Heat the Oven:
- Turn your oven on and let it heat to 375°F so it bakes evenly
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Honestly, the best part is those crispy bits on the edge and the gooey cheese hiding inside. This was the first thing my youngest ever helped with, and now he always wants to do the batter mixing part.
Storing Leftovers
Once it’s cooled down, pop the whole pan in the fridge covered up or move slices to a container. It keeps for about three days. Want to freeze it? Wrap up single pieces and stash them in the freezer for about a month. Defrost in the fridge and heat in the oven when you want it later.
Swaps and Switch-Ups
Need it lighter? Try turkey or vegetarian sausage. Almond or oat milk works too. Any pancake mix will get the job done—even gluten free. Switch out cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack if that’s what you’ve got.
Fun Ways to Serve
Add a side of extra maple syrup for dipping or spoon on some Greek yogurt. Brighten it up with fresh berries. For a big brunch, serve with crispy hash browns or fresh fruit.
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How This Came About
Bakes like this popped up for big get-togethers—think holiday mornings or after-church brunches. One-pan breakfast classics are a big part of American comfort food history.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Totally! If you have pre-cooked sausage, just break it up and spread it as usual. No extra skillet time needed.
- → Is it necessary to add the maple syrup?
You can skip the syrup. It’s just there for a sweet touch, so leave it out or serve it on the side if you want.
- → How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks deeply golden and your toothpick comes out free of any batter in the middle.
- → Can this breakfast bake be prepared in advance?
Go ahead and put it together early, then chill in your fridge. Bake it fresh right before you eat for best results.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Try it alongside a crisp salad, cool yogurt, or fruit for a nice morning mix-up.