admin1 Cheesy Sausage Squares are a classic crowd-pleasing appetizer made with savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and a simple biscuit-style base. Baked until golden and cut into bite-sized squares, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, holiday gatherings, game days, or make-ahead meal prep.
These hearty squares are packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and delicious served warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a protein-packed breakfast, this recipe is always a winner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pan recipe
- Perfect for breakfast or brunch
- Great make-ahead dish
- Freezer-friendly
- Packed with protein
- Family-friendly
- Ideal for potlucks and parties
- Ready in under an hour
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 squares
Servings: 12
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to:
350°F (175°C)
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked.
Temperature
- Medium heat (350°F / 175°C)
Time
- 8–10 minutes
Break the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks.
Drain excess grease and allow to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Melted butter
Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.
Stir until just combined.
Fold in:
- Cooked sausage
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional vegetables
Mix gently.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven.
Baking Temperature
350°F (175°C)
Baking Time
30–35 minutes
The top should be golden brown and the center fully set.
Internal Temperature
The center should reach:
160°F (71°C)
Step 8: Cool
Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cut into 24 squares.
Serve warm.
Tips for Success
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Fresh cheese melts better and provides superior flavor.
Don’t Overmix
Mix only until ingredients are combined for the best texture.
Let Cool Before Cutting
This helps the squares hold their shape.
Drain Sausage Well
Excess grease can make the squares oily.
Variations
Spicy Sausage Squares
Add:
- 1 diced jalapeño
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Bacon and Cheddar Squares
Replace half the sausage with cooked bacon.
Southwest Version
Add:
- Diced green chilies
- Pepper Jack cheese
Vegetable Sausage Squares
Add:
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
- Spinach
Gluten-Free Version
Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Hot sauce
- Fresh fruit
- Hash browns
- Green salad
Make-Ahead Instructions
Prepare and bake the day before.
Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Oven
Heat at:
325°F (165°C)
for 10–15 minutes.
Microwave
Heat individual squares for 30–45 seconds.
Nutritional Information
Per Square (Based on 24 squares)
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey sausage?
Yes. Turkey sausage works well and reduces the fat content.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. They’re excellent for meal prep and reheating.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, Colby, or Swiss cheese are great options.
Why are my squares dense?
Overmixing the batter can create a heavier texture.
