Savory Cranberry Sausage Bake

This cranberry sausage breakfast casserole is a hearty dish that brings together savory sausage, sweet cranberries, and comforting stuffing into one satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or holiday breakfast when you want something that's both flavorful and easy to prepare ahead of time.

This casserole quickly became a favorite when I wanted a show-stopping breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. The cranberries add a surprising pop that balances the richness of the sausage perfectly.

Ingredients

• Breakfast sausage: adds a meaty, savory base choose pork for classic flavor or chicken for a lighter option
• Dried cranberries: contribute tart sweetness opt for plump, fresh-looking berries for best texture
• Herb-seasoned stuffing mix: provides a flavorful backbone pick your favorite brand or homemade mix if you have the time
• Large eggs: bind everything together opt for farm fresh or organic for better taste and color
• Milk: makes the casserole creamy whole milk or 2 percent work well here
• Shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese: brings melty richness use freshly grated cheese not pre-shredded for better melt and taste
• Butter: for greasing the dish helps prevent sticking and adds subtle richness
• Salt and pepper: enhance all the flavors season to taste
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish: adds color and mild herbal brightness if desired

Instructions

Build The Flavor Base:

Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly browned and crumbled. Take your time here to really render the fat but drain excess to avoid greasiness. This forms the savory backbone.

Mix The Main Components:

In a large bowl combine the cooked sausage with dry stuffing mix and dried cranberries. The stuffing mix will absorb the upcoming egg and milk mixture making the casserole tender and flavorful.

Whisk The Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk together eggs milk salt and pepper until combined and slightly frothy. Season generously as this will flavor the entire dish.

Combine And Add Cheese:

Pour the egg mixture into the stuffing and sausage bowl. Mix well to coat everything evenly then fold in the shredded cheese so it melts throughout the casserole.

Prepare For Baking:

Butter a 9 by 13 inch baking dish evenly spread the sausage stuffing mixture into the dish smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during the first part of baking.

Bake Until Set:

Bake covered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes to allow the eggs to set slowly. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes to let the top become golden brown and slightly crisp.

Rest And Serve:

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking this helps it firm up for easier serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like and serve warm.

One of my favorite parts is how the dried cranberries keep the casserole from feeling too heavy. This dish always sparks warm memories around festive breakfasts with family when everyone gathers around the table sharing stories and plates piled high.

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay good for up to three days and reheat well in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast or snack. Avoid freezing as the texture can change because of the moisture in the stuffing mix.

Ingredient Swaps

You can use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage substitute if you want a different protein or a vegetarian version. Try swapping the herb stuffing mix for a cornbread or plain stuffing for a different texture and flavor profile. Use any cheese you enjoy such as Monterey Jack or Gruyere to change the richness and melt qualities.

Serving Ideas

Serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to lighten the meal. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess and tang. For something extra festive drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey just before serving.

Seasonal Twists

In fall add chopped apples or toasted pecans for extra crunch and warmth. During the holidays sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for cozy spice notes. Swap cranberries for dried cherries or raisins when in season or based on your preference.

This casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that is easy to prepare ahead and impress any crowd.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of sausage works best?

Breakfast sausage, either pork or chicken, works well due to its savory spices and texture that hold up during baking.

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used but may add extra moisture and tartness; dried cranberries offer sweet-tart bursts that complement other ingredients.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, substituting sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed mushrooms provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.

→ What cheese substitutes can I use?

Cheddar or Swiss are ideal, but mozzarella or Gruyère can provide different but delicious flavors.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the dish ahead, keep refrigerated, and bake when ready to serve for convenience.