Name: Pancake Sausage Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pancake mix; 1¼ cups milk; 1 egg; 1 lb chicken sausage; ½ cup maple syrup (plus more for serving); Butter or oil for greasing the skillet

A delightful breakfast casserole that combines fluffy pancakes and savory chicken sausage layered with sweet maple syrup. This hearty dish brings together breakfast favorites in one comforting, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pancake Sausage Casserole offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in one convenient dish. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining. The combination of fluffy pancakes and protein-rich sausage creates a satisfying meal that will please both pancake lovers and meat enthusiasts. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite breakfast add-ins while being simple enough for even novice cooks to master.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pancake mix provides a convenient shortcut for creating fluffy, consistent pancakes without measuring multiple dry ingredients. It already contains the perfect ratio of flour, leavening agents, and other ingredients needed for perfect pancakes.
Milk adds moisture and helps create a tender texture in the pancakes. The protein in milk also contributes to the structure while adding richness to the batter.
Egg acts as a binding agent, giving structure and stability to the pancakes while adding protein and richness. It helps create that perfect pancake texture that holds up well in the casserole.
Chicken sausage provides savory flavor and protein. It comes in various flavor options, so you can choose one that complements the sweet elements in the dish.
Maple syrup infuses the entire casserole with natural sweetness and that distinctive maple flavor that pairs perfectly with both pancakes and sausage. The syrup also helps keep the casserole moist during baking.
Butter or oil is essential for greasing the cooking surfaces to prevent sticking and adds flavor to the pancakes as they cook.

Directions

In a skillet over medium heat, cook chicken sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk pancake mix, milk, and egg until smooth. Let batter sit 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Heat lightly oiled skillet or griddle over medium heat. Pour batter to make small to medium pancakes. Cook until bubbles form and edges set, flip and cook until golden. Repeat to make at least 6 pancakes.
In a greased baking dish, layer pancakes, chicken sausage, and drizzle of maple syrup, repeating layers and ending with a pancake on top. Optionally pour extra syrup over the top.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake casserole 10-15 minutes to meld flavors and warm through.
Slice and serve warm with additional maple syrup.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 6 generous servings, making it perfect for a family breakfast or brunch gathering. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 25 minutes to cook, with a total time of 40 minutes from start to finish. Each serving contains approximately 430 calories, providing a substantial meal to start your day.

Variations

Berry Delight: Add a layer of fresh berries between the pancake and sausage layers for a fruity twist.
Cheesy Version: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or monterey jack cheese between layers for a savory-sweet combination.
Apple Cinnamon: Incorporate sautéed cinnamon apples between layers for a fall-inspired variation.
Banana Nut: Add sliced bananas and chopped walnuts between layers for extra texture and flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s: Mix mini chocolate chips into the pancake batter for a dessert-like treat.
Savory Herb: Use herb-flavored chicken sausage and add fresh herbs like sage or thyme to the pancake batter.
Spiced Version: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla to the pancake batter for warmly spiced pancakes.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole has cooled completely before storing.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Cut into individual portions before freezing for easier reheating. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating in Oven: For best results, reheat refrigerated casserole in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or reheat from frozen at 325°F for 20-25 minutes.
Microwave Reheating: For a quick option, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Add a small drizzle of maple syrup before reheating to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Complete all steps except the final baking, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking, then bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Can I use homemade pancake batter instead of mix?

Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pancake batter, simply substitute your favorite recipe for the pancake mix, milk, and egg combination. Make sure the consistency is similar to standard pancake batter.

What type of chicken sausage works best for this recipe?

Any fully-cooked chicken sausage works well, but maple or apple-flavored varieties complement the sweet elements nicely. For a more savory contrast, try herb or garlic flavored sausage.

Is there a dairy-free alternative I can use?

Certainly! Replace the milk with your favorite non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk. Check that your pancake mix is dairy-free or use a dairy-free homemade pancake recipe.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Cook them thoroughly before adding to remove excess moisture, and layer them between the pancakes and sausage.

What’s the best baking dish to use for this casserole?

An 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish works well for the quantities in this recipe. A deeper dish is preferable to accommodate the layers without overflow.

Can I use sugar-free maple syrup?

Yes, sugar-free maple syrup can be used as a lower-calorie alternative. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still add sweetness and moisture to the casserole.

How do I know when the casserole is fully heated through?

The casserole is ready when it’s hot throughout and the edges are slightly bubbling. If you’re concerned, use a food thermometer to ensure the center reaches at least 165°F.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13-inch pan, and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness.

Conclusion

This Pancake Sausage Casserole brings together the best of breakfast in one delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. The contrast between fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and sweet maple syrup creates a satisfying meal that works for breakfast, brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins and practical enough to prepare in advance for busy mornings or special occasions. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a brunch gathering, this casserole offers a comforting, hearty option that combines convenience with homemade flavor. Give it a try for your next weekend breakfast and watch it become a requested favorite.