The Ultimate Brunch Sensation: Our Most Saved Recipe of All Time!

Brunch: that magical meal bridging the gap between breakfast and lunch, the perfect excuse to gather friends and family, and a culinary canvas for both sweet and savory delights. Over the years, we’ve shared countless brunch recipes, from fluffy pancakes to decadent eggs Benedict. But one recipe stands head and shoulders above the rest, consistently topping the charts in saves, shares, and rave reviews. We’re thrilled to finally share the secret behind our most popular brunch creation: the **Ultimate Savory French Toast Casserole**.

This isn’t your average French toast. We’ve taken the comforting flavors of classic French toast and elevated them to a whole new level by incorporating savory ingredients like sausage, cheese, and a medley of fresh vegetables. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself to a weekend indulgence.

## Why This Recipe Reigns Supreme

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s explore why this Savory French Toast Casserole has earned its coveted title as our most saved brunch recipe:

* **Make-Ahead Magic:** One of the biggest appeals of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the entire casserole the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. This makes it a stress-free option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your guests’ company without being chained to the kitchen.
* **Customizable to Your Heart’s Content:** While we provide a delicious base recipe, the possibilities for customization are endless. Swap out the sausage for bacon or ham, add different cheeses, or incorporate your favorite vegetables. This casserole is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
* **Crowd-Pleasing Flavors:** The combination of sweet and savory flavors is undeniably irresistible. The creamy custard, the savory sausage, and the melted cheese create a symphony of tastes that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
* **Surprisingly Simple:** Despite its impressive flavor profile, this casserole is surprisingly easy to make. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores. Even novice cooks can confidently tackle this recipe.
* **The Wow Factor:** This casserole looks as good as it tastes. The golden-brown crust, the colorful vegetables, and the bubbling cheese create a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

## The Ultimate Savory French Toast Casserole Recipe

Alright, enough teasing! Let’s get down to business and reveal the recipe that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of our readers. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this Savory French Toast Casserole.

**Yields:** 8-10 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 45-50 minutes
**Total time:** 1 hour 5 minutes (plus overnight chilling time)

### Ingredients:

* 1 loaf (1 pound) challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (or vegetarian sausage alternative)
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 8 large eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
* Butter, for greasing the baking dish

### Equipment:

* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large skillet
* Large bowl
* Whisk

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Bread:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly toasted. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
2. **Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:** While the bread is toasting, cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. **Assemble the Casserole:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. In the baking dish, layer half of the toasted bread cubes, followed by half of the cooked sausage, vegetables, cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, and parsley. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
4. **Prepare the Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Pour the custard evenly over the bread and sausage mixture, making sure to saturate all the bread cubes. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to ensure it’s submerged in the custard.
5. **Chill Overnight (Recommended):** Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a richer and more flavorful casserole. If you’re short on time, you can bake the casserole immediately, but the overnight chilling really enhances the texture and flavor.
6. **Bake the Casserole:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This helps ensure even cooking. Uncover the baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. **Let Rest and Serve:** Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set further and makes it easier to slice. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm. This casserole is delicious on its own or with a side of fresh fruit, a green salad, or a dollop of sour cream.

## Variations and Customization Ideas

The beauty of this Savory French Toast Casserole lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own signature version. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

* **Meat Lovers:** Substitute the breakfast sausage with cooked bacon, ham, Italian sausage, or chorizo. You can even use a combination of meats for an extra meaty casserole.
* **Vegetarian Delight:** Omit the sausage and add more vegetables. Some great options include mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted red peppers. Consider using a vegetarian sausage alternative for added protein.
* **Cheese Please:** Experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, provolone, Swiss, and feta cheese all work well in this casserole. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the custard for a subtle kick of heat. You can also use spicy sausage or add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
* **Sweet and Savory:** Add a touch of sweetness to the casserole by incorporating dried cranberries, chopped apples, or a drizzle of maple syrup before baking.
* **Seasonal Sensations:** Adapt the recipe to the seasons by using seasonal vegetables. In the fall, try adding butternut squash and sage. In the spring, try asparagus and peas.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Stale Bread:** Slightly stale bread is ideal for French toast casseroles because it absorbs the custard better and prevents the casserole from becoming soggy. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by leaving it out on the counter overnight or toasting it in the oven.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the casserole can result in a dry and rubbery texture. Bake until the top is golden brown and the custard is set, but still slightly jiggly in the center. The casserole will continue to set as it cools.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving is crucial for ensuring that the custard is fully set and the casserole is easy to slice.
* **Proper Storage:** Leftover Savory French Toast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
* **Freezing Instructions:** You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. You can also freeze individual slices of baked casserole for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch.

## Serving Suggestions

This Savory French Toast Casserole is a complete meal in itself, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Fresh Fruit Salad:** The sweetness and acidity of fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a touch of freshness and fiber to the meal.
* **Yogurt Parfait:** A yogurt parfait with granola and berries is a healthy and delicious addition to brunch.
* **Maple Syrup:** While this is a savory dish, a drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the other flavors beautifully.
* **Hot Sauce:** For those who like a little heat, a drizzle of hot sauce adds a spicy kick.
* **Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt:** A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a creamy tang that balances the richness of the casserole.

## Final Thoughts

We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about our most saved brunch recipe of all time! The Ultimate Savory French Toast Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, customizable, and surprisingly easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch party, treating yourself to a weekend indulgence, or simply looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience brunch bliss! We’re confident that this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your brunch repertoire.

Happy cooking, and bon appétit!