Overnight Sausage Pancake Casserole

This breakfast casserole transforms frozen pancakes and maple sausage into a morning meal that tastes just like a Sausage McGriddle with eggs. The sweet and savory combination creates a showstopping dish perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches when you need to feed a crowd without the morning stress.

I first made this for Christmas morning three years ago, and it's become our non-negotiable holiday tradition. My teenagers actually set their alarms early just to help me put this in the oven – a miracle in itself!

Ingredients

• Frozen pancakes thawed: These create the perfect base that soaks up the egg mixture while maintaining their structure.
• Maple sausage: Provides the ideal sweet and savory flavor foundation that makes this dish special.
• Large eggs: Creates the custard that binds everything together.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and helps create a tender texture throughout.
• Milk: Works with the cream for the perfect custard consistency.
• Vanilla: Enhances the sweetness and complements the maple flavors.
• Sugar: Balances the savory elements with just enough sweetness.
• Maple syrup: Infuses authentic maple flavor throughout the casserole.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Cut the thawed pancakes in half and arrange them cut side down in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Create slight overlaps to ensure the entire dish is covered with pancake pieces. This creates the foundation that will soak up all the delicious flavors.

Cook the Sausage:

Brown the maple sausage in a skillet over medium high heat for about 8 to 10 minutes until completely cooked through with no pink remaining. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks for even distribution throughout the casserole. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy finished dish.

Layer the Sausage:

Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over and between the pancake pieces. Take time to tuck some between the pancake layers to ensure every bite contains both elements. The warmth of the sausage will slightly soften the pancakes which helps them absorb the egg mixture.

Prepare the Custard:

Whisk together eggs heavy cream milk vanilla sugar and maple syrup until completely combined with no streaks of egg white visible. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened from the beating action which helps it penetrate the pancakes evenly.

Assemble for Overnight Rest:

Pour the egg mixture slowly over the pancakes and sausage allowing it to seep between layers. Gently press down on the pancake pieces to help them absorb the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pancakes to fully absorb the custard.

Baking the Casserole:

The next morning remove the casserole from the refrigerator while preheating your oven to 350°F. Uncover the casserole and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until the center is completely set and the top is golden brown. The casserole will puff up slightly as it bakes.

Serving Time:

Let the finished casserole rest for exactly 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows it to settle slightly while remaining perfectly warm. Serve with additional warmed maple syrup for drizzling at the table.

The maple sausage is truly the secret ingredient that makes this casserole special. I once tried to substitute regular breakfast sausage with added maple syrup and it simply wasn't the same. The flavor infusion that happens with actual maple sausage creates that authentic McGriddle taste that makes everyone ask for the recipe.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole is designed for overnight preparation, but you can prepare it even further in advance if needed. Assemble the entire casserole up to 48 hours before baking. For longer storage, assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze unbaked for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if still cold from the refrigerator.

Ingredient Substitutions

While the original recipe creates the perfect flavor profile, you can customize based on dietary needs or preferences. Turkey maple sausage works beautifully for a lighter option. Mini pancakes can be used whole instead of cutting larger ones. For homemade pancake lovers, substitute approximately 20 to 24 pancakes about 2¼ inches in diameter. Want extra richness? Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage layer before adding the egg mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this from a family breakfast to a brunch centerpiece by creating a breakfast bar around it. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad, yogurt parfait station, and coffee bar with flavored creamers. For an extra special touch, offer warmed maple syrup in a small pitcher alongside whipped maple butter. A side of crispy bacon provides textural contrast to the soft casserole. For lighter fare, add a simple green salad with citrus vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pancakes instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute 20 to 24 homemade pancakes (about 2 ¼-inch size) for the frozen ones. Ensure they are fully cooled before assembling the casserole.

→ What type of sausage works best?

Maple sausage is recommended for a sweet and savory flavor, but turkey sausage or other preferred options can be used as substitutes.

→ Can I prepare this without refrigerating overnight?

Refrigerating overnight allows the flavors to meld and the egg mixture to soak into the pancakes. However, if short on time, refrigerating for at least 2–3 hours will work, though the flavor might be slightly less cohesive.

→ Can I make this dish more diet-friendly?

Yes, you can swap the whole milk and heavy cream with lower-fat alternatives, use sugar substitutes, or lean turkey sausage to reduce calories and fat.

→ What should I serve alongside the casserole?

This dish pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad to balance the richness. Don’t forget extra maple syrup on the side for topping!

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or wrap tightly and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.