Pancake Sausage Casserole is a fun, sweet-and-savory breakfast bake that combines fluffy pancakes, savory breakfast sausage, and a drizzle of maple syrup all in one dish. It takes the flavors of a classic diner breakfast plate and layers them into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or a weekend treat.
This recipe is great for feeding a crowd because you can prep it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready. With its golden pancake layers, savory sausage, and sweet syrup finish, it’s a kid-friendly, family-favorite recipe that always earns rave reviews.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pancake mix (plus water, milk, or eggs according to package directions)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup maple syrup (plus more for serving)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Cooking spray or extra butter for greasing the dish
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare Pancake Batter
- Prepare pancake batter according to package instructions. Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a spiced flavor if desired.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour half the pancake batter into the dish.
- Layer cooked sausage evenly over the batter.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese if using.
- Pour remaining pancake batter on top.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
Step 5: Add Maple Syrup & Serve
- Brush melted butter on top and drizzle with maple syrup.
- Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with extra syrup.
Variations
- Blueberry Twist: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter.
- Loaded Style: Add bacon crumbles or diced ham with the sausage.
- Sweet Version: Top with powdered sugar or whipped cream.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot sausage and add pepper jack cheese.
Cooking Notes
- Use a slightly thicker pancake batter so it holds sausage well.
- Let casserole rest before cutting so layers hold together.
- For extra crisp edges, bake in a glass dish or cast iron pan.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh fruit or a fruit salad for balance.
- Add scrambled eggs on the side for a bigger breakfast spread.
- Perfect with coffee, tea, or fresh orange juice.
Tips
- Cook sausage ahead of time to save prep in the morning.
- Use maple sausage for an extra flavor boost.
- Make it ahead: assemble casserole, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning.
- Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 8 servings)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 660mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make pancake sausage casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
Q2: Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, freeze baked portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven.
Q3: Can I use homemade pancake batter?
- Absolutely,just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the layers.
Q4: Do I have to add cheese?
- No, cheese is optional but adds savory richness.
Q5: Can I use turkey sausage?
- Yes, turkey sausage makes a lighter version while still flavorful.
Conclusion
Pancake Sausage Casserole is a sweet, savory, and satisfying breakfast bake that’s perfect for holidays, brunches, or weekend mornings. With golden layers of pancake, savory sausage, and a drizzle of maple syrup, it’s easy to make, kid-approved, and freezer-friendly. A creative twist on breakfast classics, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.