Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole is about to become your new favorite holiday tradition, or perhaps, your secret weapon for effortless weekend brunches!

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of a hearty, savory, and slightly sweet dish baking gently in your oven, all prepped the night before. This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a celebration in a dish, combining all the comforting flavors of a holiday feast into a convenient, crowd-pleasing morning meal. Historically, stuffing has graced our dinner tables as a beloved accompaniment to roasted turkeys and chickens. But what if we told you that its incredible flavors could be reinvented, elevated, and brought to the breakfast table? This recipe does exactly that, transforming classic stuffing into a spectacular morning centerpiece, perfect for feeding a gathering or simply enjoying a special start to your day.

Why You’ll Adore This Breakfast Casserole

People absolutely adore this dish for so many wonderful reasons. The savory goodness of the sausage perfectly balances the delightful tartness of fresh cranberries, while the tender, herb-infused stuffing provides a comforting and familiar base. It offers an incredible medley of textures, from the slightly crisp, golden-brown top to the soft, flavorful interior. But beyond the fantastic taste and appealing texture, it’s the sheer convenience that makes this Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole a true winner. It’s ideal for feeding a hungry crowd without any morning fuss, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy precious moments with family and friends. It truly is the perfect blend of tradition and modern ease, ensuring a memorable and delicious start to any special day.

Ingredients:

1 loaf (1 pound) good quality day-old bread, such as challah, brioche, or a sturdy white sandwich loaf. I find that day-old bread works best because it absorbs the custardy liquid beautifully without becoming soggy. You’ll want to cut this into 1-inch cubes.
1 pound bulk breakfast sausage, mild or spicy, depending on your preference. I usually opt for a mild pork sausage to let the other flavors shine, but a little kick from spicy sausage can be wonderful!
1 large yellow onion, finely diced. This adds a foundational sweetness and aromatic depth to our casserole.
2 stalks celery, finely diced. Celery provides a lovely crisp texture and savory note that is classic in stuffing.
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand; they’ll bake right into the casserole. These vibrant berries are key to the “Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole” experience, offering that delightful tart counterpoint.
1/2 cup dried cranberries. These add another layer of concentrated sweetness and chewiness. I love the combination of fresh and dried for textural contrast.
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage. Sage is an absolute must-have herb for any stuffing-inspired dish; its earthy notes pair perfectly with sausage and cranberries.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Thyme brings a subtle, peppery, and floral aroma.
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste. We’ll be seasoning in layers, so start here and adjust later.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground.
2 cups chicken broth, low sodium. This provides moisture and enhances the savory base.
6 large eggs. These are the binding agents, creating that wonderful custardy texture we want in a breakfast casserole.
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half. For richness and a creamy custard.
1/2 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese, plus more for topping (optional, but highly recommended by me!). The sharp cheddar offers a fantastic savory, tangy bite that complements the sweet and savory profile of the “Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole.”
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for greasing the baking dish and sautéing.

Preparing Our Base Ingredients

Let’s get started on this incredible Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole! A little prep work now means smooth sailing later, and I promise, the aromas alone will make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven.

First things first, let’s prepare our bread. If you haven’t already, take your day-old bread and cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes. Aim for consistency here; it helps the bread absorb the liquid evenly, ensuring no dry spots or overly soggy areas. Spread these bread cubes out on a large baking sheet. If your bread isn’t quite day-old, you can toast it lightly in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until slightly dried out but not browned. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in our finished casserole. Set aside.
Next, we’ll tackle the star of our savory component: the sausage. Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven and place it over medium-high heat. Add your pound of bulk breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want to cook the sausage until it’s beautifully browned and completely cooked through, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. As it cooks, keep breaking it into smaller, crumbly pieces. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl, leaving any excess rendered fat in the skillet. This fat is pure flavor and we’re going to use it!
With the sausage safely in the mixing bowl, reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion and celery to the skillet with the reserved sausage fat. If you find there’s not enough fat, feel free to add a tablespoon of unsalted butter here. Sauté the onion and celery for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’ve softened beautifully and the onion has become translucent. We’re not looking for browning here, just a gentle softening to release their aromatic flavors. This step is vital for building the complex flavor profile of our casserole. Once softened, add the chopped fresh sage and thyme to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Oh, the smell at this point is just heavenly!

Crafting the Flavorful Stuffing Mixture

Now that our individual components are prepped and cooked, it’s time to bring them together to create the heart of our Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole. This is where the magic truly begins to happen!

Add the sautéed onion, celery, sage, and thyme mixture directly to the mixing bowl with the cooked sausage. Give it a good stir to combine these wonderful savory elements.
Now, let’s introduce the cranberries! Add both the fresh (or frozen) cranberries and the dried cranberries to the bowl. The combination of the two types of cranberries provides both a bright, tart burst and a concentrated, chewy sweetness, creating an incredible textural and flavor contrast against the rich sausage and savory vegetables. Stir everything gently to distribute the cranberries evenly throughout the mixture.
Season the sausage and vegetable mixture with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Remember, we’ll be adding more liquid and bread, so this initial seasoning helps layer the flavors. Give it another thorough mix to ensure the seasonings are well distributed. At this stage, I often find myself taking a tiny, irresistible taste – just to make sure the seasoning is on point!

Assembling the Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole

This next phase is all about bringing everything together into that comforting, bake-ready form. You’re so close to enjoying a magnificent Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Don’t be shy with the butter; it helps prevent sticking and adds a lovely flavor to the crust.
In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the six large eggs. Ensure they are fully beaten, with no streaks of yolk or white remaining. This creates a uniform base for our custard.
To the beaten eggs, gradually whisk in the 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of whole milk or half-and-half, and the 1/2 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Whisk until everything is well combined and relatively smooth. This is our rich, savory custard base that will infuse our bread with incredible moisture and flavor. This liquid mixture is truly the soul of our Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole, transforming humble bread into a moist, delectable experience.
Add the cubed bread to the large bowl containing the sausage, vegetable, and cranberry mixture. Toss gently to combine all the dry ingredients.
Now, pour the egg and broth mixture over the bread and sausage mixture. With a large spoon or your hands, gently toss and press the ingredients together, ensuring that all the bread cubes are thoroughly moistened by the liquid. This might take a couple of minutes, but it’s important to make sure every piece of bread has absorbed some of that wonderful custardy liquid. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, giving the bread ample time to soak up all that goodness. This soaking period is critical; it’s what prevents a dry casserole and instead gives you a perfectly moist and tender final product.
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, pressing it down slightly to create a compact, uniform layer. If you desire, sprinkle an additional 1/4 to 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
For Make-Ahead Options: If you’re preparing this delightful Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole the night before (which I highly recommend for holiday mornings or brunch!), cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature. This helps ensure even cooking.

Baking Our Delightful Breakfast Casserole

The moment of truth is here! Get ready for your kitchen to be filled with the most incredible aromas as your Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole bakes to golden perfection.

Place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven.
Bake for 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown top, with the edges bubbling enthusiastically, and the center set. To check for doneness, I like to gently insert a knife into the center; if it comes out mostly clean (with just a few moist crumbs), your casserole is likely done. The exact baking time can vary depending on your oven and whether you started with a cold casserole from the fridge, so keep an eye on it. If you notice the top browning too quickly before the center is cooked through, you can loosely tent the casserole with aluminum foil.
Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. It’s important to let your Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set further, making it easier to serve and ensuring that the custardy filling is perfectly moist and holds its shape. Plus, it gives it a moment to cool down just enough so you don’t burn your tongue on that first eager bite!
Serve warm and watch it disappear! This Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole is truly a meal in itself, perfect for a festive breakfast, a hearty brunch, or even a comforting dinner. I love serving it with a simple green salad or a side of crispy bacon, but honestly, it shines all on its own. Enjoy every savory, sweet, and satisfying forkful!

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my absolute favorite recipe for transforming your breakfast or brunch into something truly extraordinary. I truly believe this isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience, a delightful morning revolution that brings together the best of savory, sweet, and comforting textures. We’ve explored the magic behind its simple preparation and the incredible depth of flavor it offers, making it an undeniable winner for any occasion, big or small. From bustling holiday mornings to leisurely weekend brunches, this recipe consistently delivers a satisfying meal that feels both special and incredibly welcoming. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to linger at the table, savoring every forkful and enjoying the company around you. I’m genuinely excited for you to discover the pure joy it brings and how effortlessly it can become a new staple in your culinary repertoire.

What truly sets this casserole apart is its brilliant balance. The rich, savory notes from the sausage and the hearty stuffing base are perfectly complemented by the bright, tangy burst of cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. It’s substantial enough to keep you full and happy for hours, yet surprisingly elegant in its presentation. This dish isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting a cohesive, incredibly delicious meal that highlights each component while ensuring they all work together in harmony. That’s why I’m so passionate about sharing my Cranberry Sausage Stuffing Breakfast Casserole – it’s a recipe that never fails to impress and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. It truly embodies comfort food at its finest, elevated with those delightful festive and fruity touches that make it unforgettable.

Now, when it comes to serving, this casserole is remarkably versatile. For a complete breakfast spread, I love pairing it with a vibrant fruit salad – think sliced oranges, juicy berries, and crisp melon – to add a refreshing contrast to its richness. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can also make it feel like a more substantial lunch or even a delightful “breakfast for dinner” option. Don’t forget the beverages! Freshly brewed coffee, a pitcher of chilled orange juice, or even some festive mimosas if it’s a celebratory brunch, all complement its flavors beautifully. And for those who enjoy a little extra kick, a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top can elevate the experience even further, adding a playful warmth to each bite. It’s hearty enough to be the star of the show, but plays wonderfully with supporting acts.

One of the things I adore most about this recipe is how forgiving and adaptable it is. Feeling adventurous? Try swapping out the regular pork sausage for a spicy Italian variety, or even a lean chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter touch without sacrificing flavor. You could also experiment with different cheeses – a sharp aged cheddar, smoky provolone, or even a creamy havarti would all be absolutely delicious and add their own unique character. Don’t be shy about adding a handful of finely chopped bell peppers, sautéed onions, or mushrooms to the stuffing mixture for extra texture, nutrients, and a deeper savory profile. And for a truly unique twist, consider using a different kind of bread for the stuffing base, like a buttery brioche for added richness or a tangy sourdough for a subtle counterpoint. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to truly make this recipe your own and tailor it to your family’s preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand, ensuring it becomes a personalized masterpiece.

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments, sharing delicious food with loved ones, and making cherished memories around the table. I promise you, the aroma filling your kitchen alone will be worth the effort – it’s pure culinary bliss! Once you’ve whipped up your own batch, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you add your own unique twist? How did your family and friends enjoy it? Please, share your photos, stories, and any brilliant modifications you came up with; it truly brightens my day to see your culinary creations and inspires me to keep sharing. Let’s make delicious breakfasts a regular, joyful occurrence, starting with this fantastic casserole!