Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
- 2 cups (225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups (240 g) baking mix (such as Bisquick)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sausage and cook for 7–8 minutes, breaking it into crumbles until fully browned and no longer pink.
Drain any excess grease and let the sausage cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Paprika
Add the baking mix and stir until just combined.
Fold in:
- Cooked sausage
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh herbs, if using
Mix until evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Bake
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until:
- The top is golden brown.
- The center is set.
- A toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Allow the bake to cool for 10 minutes before cutting into 12 equal squares.
Serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make the squares dense.
- Drain the cooked sausage well to prevent a greasy bake.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner squares.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Version
Add:
- 1 diced jalapeño
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar
Veggie-Packed
Mix in:
- Sautéed bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Spinach
- Green onions
Bacon Lover’s
Replace half the sausage with cooked, crumbled bacon.
Southwest Style
Add:
- Corn
- Diced green chilies
- Taco seasoning
- Mexican cheese blend
Gluten-Free
Use a gluten-free baking mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
What to Serve with Cheesy Sausage Squares
These savory squares pair well with:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Scrambled eggs
- Hash browns
- Roasted potatoes
- Garden salad
- Tomato soup
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
They’re also excellent as part of a brunch buffet.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
These squares freeze beautifully.
- Cool completely.
- Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Oven:
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave:
Heat individual squares for 30–60 seconds until warmed through.
Air Fryer:
Reheat at 325°F (160°C) for 4–5 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Square)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 2 g
- Calcium: 220 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and will vary depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the mixture, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, Swiss, Gouda, or Pepper Jack all work well, either alone or blended with cheddar.
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Yes. Turkey or chicken sausage is a leaner option and works just as well. Ensure it is fully cooked before mixing into the batter.
How do I know when they’re done?
The top should be golden brown, the center should feel firm, and a toothpick inserted into the middle should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Sausage Squares are an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, appetizers, or meal prep. With their fluffy texture, savory sausage, and gooey melted cheese, they’re satisfying on their own or paired with your favorite sides. They’re easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to become a family favorite for busy mornings and special gatherings alike.