Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cook the sausage over medium heat in a skillet until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain off excess grease and allow it to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, milk, eggs, vanilla, maple syrup, cinnamon (if using), and melted butter until the mixture is smooth.
Pour half of the pancake batter into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the batter.
Pour the remaining batter on top and spread it out evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Slice into squares and drizzle with warm maple syrup. Serve it with butter, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar if desired.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Pancake Sausage Casserole, creativity can take your meal to the next level. Drizzle with warm maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or add fresh blueberries or bananas for a fruity twist. Pair it with a side of crispy bacon or fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast experience. You can even serve it as a brunch centerpiece, and watch your friends and family dive in.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Safety tip: Always ensure leftovers are kept below 40°F in the fridge and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Brown the sausage well for the most flavor—don’t rush this step!
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked sausage or even bacon to simplify the cooking process.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup in the batter, or trying out flavored syrup variations.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get inventive with this pancake casserole! You could swap the sausage for ham or turkey bacon for lighter fare. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and spinach in place of meat. Spice things up with a pinch of chili powder or add different spices to personalize the flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and the baking time is approximately 25-30 minutes.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a little extra time to the baking if it starts from a cold state.
What can I substitute for pancake mix?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free pancake mix to suit your dietary needs.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can opt for turkey sausage and low-fat milk, or replace some of the pancake mix with mashed bananas for a healthier twist!
