Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bread Bake

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bread Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 slices of bread (preferably day-old bread, thick-cut works best)
• 1 pound of breakfast sausage (bulk sausage or links)
• 6 slices of cooked bacon (crumbled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread Base

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Next, cut your bread slices into small cubes or tear them into bite-sized pieces. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. The bread will serve as the base of your dish, absorbing all of the delicious flavors.

2. Cook the Sausage and Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain off any excess fat and set the sausage aside to cool slightly.

Next, cook the bacon in the same skillet until it’s crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside with the sausage.

3. Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This custard mixture will bind everything together and create a creamy texture throughout the bake.

4. Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked sausage and bacon to the bread cubes in the baking dish. Toss to combine so that the meat is evenly distributed throughout the bread.

Pour the custard mixture over the bread and meat, making sure everything is well-coated. Gently press the mixture down to ensure the bread absorbs the custard.

5. Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the bread bake. The cheese will melt into the dish, creating pockets of gooey goodness.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the custard has set. The bake should be slightly puffed and firm to the touch.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor. Then, slice it up and serve!

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bread Bake

• Use Day-Old Bread: Day-old bread absorbs the custard mixture better and doesn’t become too soggy. You can also use French bread or brioche for extra flavor and texture.
• Customize the Meat: If you’re not a fan of sausage, feel free to substitute it with other cooked meats like ham, chorizo, or even ground turkey.
• Add Veggies: For a balanced dish, you can add sautéed vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, or spinach for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
• Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Ways to Serve Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bread Bake

1. Brunch: Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a complete brunch spread.
2. Dinner: Pair it with a light vegetable dish, like roasted asparagus or a simple mixed green salad, for a balanced meal.
3. Side Dish: This dish works wonderfully as a side at family gatherings, holidays, or BBQs. It’s filling enough to be a star, but not too heavy to take over the meal.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Bacon and Sausage Bread Bake is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines everything we love about comfort food—crispy bread, savory sausage, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese. Perfect for brunch, dinner, or even as a make-ahead dish for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

So, the next time you’re craving something indulgent and delicious, gather these simple ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy this cheesy, flavorful bake that will have everyone coming back for seconds!