If you love warm, fluffy pancakes and savory sausage, this Pancake Sausage Casserole is the ultimate breakfast mashup you’ve been waiting for. Imagine pillowy pancakes layered with juicy breakfast sausage and sweet maple syrup, all baked together to create a decadent casserole that’s as perfect for lazy mornings as it is for celebrating a big family brunch. This dish brings comfort, nostalgia, and just the right touch of indulgence to your table — making every bite memorable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pancake Sausage Casserole comes together with everyday, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the pancake mix forms a light, fluffy base while sausage, milk, and egg add heartiness and flavor. Maple syrup ties it all together for that sweet, classic breakfast taste.
- Pancake mix: The foundation of the casserole—choose your favorite brand for best results.
- Whole milk: Adds richness, giving the pancakes that tender, soft crumb you want in every bite.
- Large egg: Binds the batter, ensuring the pancakes rise and hold their shape.
- Breakfast sausage: Pick a flavorful sausage for a savory contrast to the sweetness of the pancakes and syrup.
- Pure maple syrup: The magic ingredient—drizzled between layers and served on top for irresistible sweetness.
- Butter or cooking oil: For greasing your skillet and baking dish, so nothing sticks and everything turns out golden.
How to Make Pancake Sausage Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and tossing in that pound of breakfast sausage. Cook it until it’s deeply browned, crumbly, and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate and drain off the excess grease—this step keeps the casserole from feeling too heavy or oily.
Step 2: Mix the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, whole milk, and a large egg. Stir until you have a smooth, dreamy-looking batter. Let it rest for about five minutes—this gives the ingredients a chance to mingle and your batter will thicken just right for fluffy pancakes.
Step 3: Cook the Pancakes
Grab a nonstick skillet or griddle, slick it with a bit of butter or oil, and set over medium heat. Pour the batter into small to medium rounds—about six pancakes will do it. Cook each until bubbles rise to the surface and the edges look set, then flip for that gorgeous golden finish. These pancakes are the star of your Pancake Sausage Casserole, so make them with love!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a baking dish with butter or oil, then start to layer: lay down a pancake, scatter over some sausage, then drizzle with maple syrup. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, ending with a pancake on top and a final, generous drizzle of syrup if you like things extra sweet.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slide the assembled casserole into the oven for 10-15 minutes. This short bake melds the flavors, keeps everything warm, and ensures the pancakes soak up just enough maple essence without getting soggy.
Step 6: Serve
Let the Pancake Sausage Casserole cool for a minute or two, then cut into hearty squares or wedges. Serve it up while still warm—and pass around extra maple syrup, because trust me, there will be requests for more!
How to Serve Pancake Sausage Casserole
Garnishes
This casserole practically begs for creative finishing touches. A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of fresh berries brings a splash of color and brightness, while a small pat of butter melting on top delivers that classic breakfast look. If you’re feeling indulgent, add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm maple syrup for that over-the-top finish.
Side Dishes
Pancake Sausage Casserole pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. Try a crisp fruit salad, some Greek yogurt with honey, or a pile of roasted breakfast potatoes for a full brunch spread. For a caffeinated kick, nothing beats a hot mug of coffee or a tall glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Creative Ways to Present
For special gatherings, cut the casserole into bite-sized squares and skewer them with toothpicks for a fun brunch finger food. Or stack two small pieces with a mini pancake on top, secured with a cocktail pick, to create adorable, layered breakfast “towers” that look as delightful as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap them tightly or transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to three days, making for the easiest grab-and-go breakfast imaginable.
Freezing
Pancake Sausage Casserole freezes incredibly well. Slice into individual servings, wrap each one snugly in foil or plastic wrap, and pop them in a zip-top bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to two months—perfect for meal prep or surprise breakfast cravings.
Reheating
To reheat from the fridge, simply microwave a portion for 1-2 minutes until warm, or bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes for an oven-fresh feel. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or give them a few extra minutes in the oven so they heat through completely.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pancake batter instead of the mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade pancake recipe, feel free to use it—just prep enough batter for about six pancakes. It’s a fun way to add your own spin to Pancake Sausage Casserole.
What type of sausage works best?
Any breakfast sausage links or ground sausage will work. Choose your favorite flavor—mild for a classic vibe, or a spicy sausage if you want a subtle kick in your casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can assemble Pancake Sausage Casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, just bake it straight from the fridge (adding a few extra minutes if needed) for a relaxed, no-fuss brunch.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Swap the milk for your preferred plant-based option and make sure your pancake mix doesn’t contain dairy. Use oil for greasing instead of butter, and you have a dairy-free breakfast everyone can enjoy.
Can I add cheese or vegetables?
Definitely—Pancake Sausage Casserole is endlessly adaptable. Try adding shredded cheddar, diced bell peppers, or cooked onions between the layers for extra flavor and color.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that makes breakfast extra special, give Pancake Sausage Casserole a try. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Don’t be surprised if it becomes the new star at your brunch table!
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Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delectable Pancake Sausage Casserole that combines layers of fluffy pancakes, savory breakfast sausage, and sweet maple syrup, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that’s sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
Pancake Base
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 1 large egg
Hearty Filling
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- ½ cup pure maple syrup, plus extra for serving
- Butter or cooking oil for greasing
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat up a skillet over medium heat and cook the breakfast sausage until browned. Drain off excess grease.
- Prepare Pancake Mix: In a large bowl, whisk together pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Cook Pancakes: Heat a skillet or griddle, pour batter to make pancakes, and cook until golden on both sides. Make at least 6 pancakes.
- Layer the Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer pancakes, sausage, maple syrup, and repeat. Finish with a pancake on top and an extra drizzle of syrup.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F, bake casserole for 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Serve: Cut into portions and serve warm with additional maple syrup.
Notes
- This casserole is ideal for brunch gatherings and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite pancake mix or sausage for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
