Pancake Sausage Bake Delight

This pancake sausage casserole is a fantastic weekend brunch or hearty breakfast option that combines all the comfort of pancakes and savory sausage in one easy dish. It’s designed to simplify mornings when you want something delicious but don’t want to juggle multiple pots and pans.

I first pulled this together on a lazy Saturday when I didn’t want to do much cooking and it quickly became a weekend staple for us. The combination of fluffy batter and savory sausage hit just the right balance every time.

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage: choose a high-quality pork sausage for the best flavor and texture
• 8 large eggs: provide structure and richness to the casserole
• 2 cups milk: use whole or 2 percent milk for creamy results
• 2 cups pancake mix: pick your favorite brand or homemade pancake mix if you have it on hand
• 1/4 cup maple syrup: use pure maple syrup to bring natural sweetness and depth
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: adds a subtle warmth that pulls the flavors together
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: optional but helps make the casserole a bit lighter and fluffier
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the sausage
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: optional for a hint of warmth and complexity
• Cooking spray or butter to grease the baking dish: prevents sticking and helps crisp the edges
• Fresh fruit, whipped cream, and extra maple syrup: make perfect toppings to customize your serving

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or butter making sure every corner is coated to prevent sticking

Cook the Sausage:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it is nicely browned and cooked through about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside

Prepare the Pancake Batter:

In a roomy mixing bowl combine the pancake mix with the amount of liquid and eggs called for on the pancake mix package stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix or the batter will be tough. Next fold in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, baking powder if using, salt, and cinnamon if using until evenly blended

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour half of the prepared pancake batter into the greased baking dish spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom. Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly across this layer. Carefully pour the remaining pancake batter over the sausage spreading it gently to cover and avoid disturbing the sausage layer too much

Bake the Casserole:

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean indicating the casserole is cooked through

Serve:

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm topped with extra maple syrup fresh fruit or whipped cream for an indulgent start to the day

Maple syrup is my favorite ingredient here because it adds a natural sweetness that satisfies without overpowering the savory sausage. I remember making this for a family brunch when everyone praised how comforting and fun it was to eat something new yet familiar.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the texture fluffy. This casserole also freezes well for up to two months wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing

Ingredient swaps

You can swap the breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or even vegetarian sausage if you want a twist. Use a gluten-free pancake mix to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivity. For a dairy-free version substitute milk with almond or oat milk and choose plant-based butter or coconut oil for greasing

Serving ideas

Serve with a side of crispy hash browns or a fresh fruit salad to round out the meal. A drizzle of extra maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream turn it into a special treat perfect for celebrating weekends or holidays

This casserole is the perfect balance of sweet and savory to brighten your mornings and become a family favorite.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use breakfast links instead of bulk sausage?

Yes, just remove the casings and crumble the sausage before cooking to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.

→ Is it okay to skip the cinnamon and baking powder?

Absolutely, these ingredients add subtle flavor and height but the bake will still be delicious without them.

→ How do I know when the bake is fully cooked?

The top should turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

→ What toppings complement this dish well?

Fresh fruits like blueberries or sliced bananas, whipped cream, and extra maple syrup pair nicely for added texture and sweetness.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble in advance, refrigerate overnight, and bake before serving, which helps meld the flavors.