Ina Garten's Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Ina Garten’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole gets a delicious vegan makeover that’s perfect for brunch gatherings or a comforting family breakfast.

This plant-based version combines savory vegan sausage, a fluffy egg-free custard, and melty dairy-free cheese, all baked together for a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish. Best of all, it can be prepared the night before, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your morning.

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole is incredibly convenient and a wonderful way to start the day with a hearty, satisfying vegan meal. It’s easy to customize with your favorite plant-based ingredients and ideal for feeding a group, making it perfect for holidays, special occasions, or weekend brunches.

How To Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb plant-based sausage
1 ½ cups vegan liquid egg substitute (or blended silken tofu/chickpea flour mixture)
2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, oat, or almond)
1 loaf vegan bread, cubed
2 cups vegan shredded cheese (cheddar-style or your choice)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp mustard powder (optional)

Directions:

In a skillet, cook the plant-based sausage over medium heat until browned. Set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegan egg substitute, plant-based milk, salt, pepper, and mustard powder until smooth.
In a greased baking dish, layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and vegan shredded cheese.
Pour the egg-free custard mixture evenly over the top, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 45 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the casserole is set.
Serve warm.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook, for a total of 55 minutes. It serves 8 people, with each serving containing approximately 340–360 calories, 16–18 grams of plant-based protein, and 22 grams of fat, depending on ingredients used.

How To Serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Serve the casserole warm straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad.

How To Store Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Tips To Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Use day-old vegan bread such as sourdough or whole grain for the best texture.
For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
Swap the vegan sausage for plant-based bacon or crumbled tempeh for variety.
Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for extra nutrition.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This vegan Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a satisfying source of plant-based protein, calcium from fortified dairy-free milk and cheese, and energy-rich carbohydrates from bread. Adding vegetables increases fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dish nourishing and well-balanced while remaining comforting and filling.

Variation (If Any)

Customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, using various dairy-free cheeses, or swapping the vegan sausage for another plant-based protein. You can also choose gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without meat?
Yes, this version is fully vegan. You can adjust plant-based proteins or add more vegetables instead.

How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Sturdy vegan breads like sourdough or French-style bread work best.

Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free bread.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions are great additions.

How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or spicy plant-based sausage for extra heat.