Pancake Sausage Breakfast Bake

This Pancake Sausage Breakfast Bake is my answer to those mornings when I crave both sweet and savory flavors in one hearty dish. Fluffy pancakes meet smoky sausage and melty cheese for a meal that is always met with cheers at my kitchen table. Whether you need an easy brunch centerpiece or a make-ahead breakfast, this oven-baked comfort is pure crowd-pleasing goodness.

I first made this on a weekend when guests were visiting and everyone wanted something different for breakfast. Now I make it any time I want to spoil my family without a lot of work.

Ingredients

• Pancake mix prepared according to package instructions: gives an easy and fluffy base
• Breakfast sausage pork turkey or chicken: brings a smoky hearty flavor look for sausage with a good meat to fat ratio
• Large eggs: hold the bake together and make it extra filling choose fresh eggs for the richest taste
• Milk: adds moisture and richness whole or low fat both work
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts deliciously and balances the sweet with tang seek out sharp cheddar for best flavor
• Maple syrup: a touch binds the savory and sweet and elevates every bite use pure maple syrup if possible
• Salt: brings out all the flavors in the dish select fine sea salt for even seasoning
• Black pepper: adds just enough warmth and depth
• Butter or non stick spray for greasing: keeps your bake from sticking and makes for easy serving use real butter for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish well with butter or non stick spray to prevent sticking and help with easy clean up

Cook the Sausage:

In a skillet on medium heat cook the sausage breaking it up with your spoon until it is browned and cooked all the way through make sure you get those little crisp edges for extra flavor then set aside

Prepare the Pancake Batter:

Mix the pancake batter by following the package instructions or whip up your favorite homemade version pour half of this batter evenly into the greased baking dish this is the foundation of your breakfast bake

Layer the Bake:

Sprinkle all the cooked sausage crumbles over the pancake batter then scatter the shredded cheddar cheese across the sausage layer drizzle two tablespoons of maple syrup over the top to add a subtle sweetness

Add the Egg Mixture:

In a mixing bowl whisk together the eggs milk salt and pepper until everything is fully combined pour this mixture over the sausage and cheese layer so it seeps through and binds the filling

Finish with Pancake Batter:

Pour the remaining pancake batter over the top using a spatula to gently spread it and cover the sausage and cheese filling without mixing everything together

Bake:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean if you see bubbling around the edges that means it is almost there

Serve:

Let the bake cool for five minutes to set slightly before slicing into portions serve warm with extra maple syrup fresh fruit or any of your favorite breakfast sides for a truly satisfying meal

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Cheese is my favorite part of this bake because I love seeing it bubble and brown as it cooks. My kids always request the corner pieces for the crispiest cheese. We once made this together before a road trip and it became our go to breakfast for every adventure since.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover breakfast bake tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat simply microwave individual portions or place in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment paper and foil for up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is flexible. Try swapping the sausage for cooked bacon ham or even a plant based sausage. If you are dairy free use a non dairy cheese and swap the milk for an unsweetened plant milk. For extra veggies try adding sautéed onions bell peppers or spinach before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this breakfast bake with extra maple syrup on the side and a big bowl of fresh fruit. It pairs perfectly with crispy hash browns or a simple green salad for brunch. For a holiday breakfast add a mimosa or hot coffee and you are set.

Cultural Context

This dish is inspired by classic American breakfast casseroles which often combine eggs cheese and meat baked together for convenience and comfort. Adding pancake layers draws on the Southern tradition of sweet and savory breakfast foods and makes the dish feel a bit like breakfast for dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the sausage with another protein?

Yes, feel free to use bacon, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for variety and dietary needs.

→ How should I reheat leftovers?

Reheat slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for a quick, hot meal.

→ Can this dish be made ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning or reheat already baked portions.

→ What sides pair well with this breakfast bake?

Fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light green salad complement the hearty, cheesy flavors perfectly.

→ Can I add vegetables to the bake?

Yes, cooked onions, peppers, or spinach add flavor and nutrition. Sauté before layering for best results.