This Blueberry Sausage Pancake Casserole is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch with family and friends. The combination of fluffy pancakes, juicy blueberries, and hearty turkey sausage creates a comforting dish that warms your heart and satisfies your taste buds.
Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a special holiday morning, this casserole brings ease and elegance to the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead, helping you enjoy more time around the table.
- Combines sweet blueberries and savory turkey sausage for perfect flavor contrast.
- Easy to prepare casserole format ideal for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
- Gluten-free pancake mix makes it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Ingredients
- Gluten-free pancake mix: Provides the fluffy base and structure for the casserole while keeping it gluten-free.
- Fresh blueberries: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color throughout the dish.
- Water: Used to prepare the pancake batter, ensuring a smooth and pourable consistency.
- Breakfast sausage: Cooked and drained turkey sausage gives savory depth and protein to the casserole.
- Maple syrup: Imparts natural sweetness and subtle caramel notes, blending flavors beautifully.
Instructions
- Cook and Drain the Sausage
Brown the turkey breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. This step releases fat and enhances flavor. Drain thoroughly to avoid excess grease in the casserole, then set aside.
- Prepare the Pancake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free pancake mix with water according to package instructions. Mixing well ensures a smooth batter, which will bake into a light and tender texture.
- Combine Sausage, Blueberries, and Maple Syrup
Gently fold the cooked sausage, fresh blueberries, and maple syrup into the batter. Stir carefully to evenly distribute the ingredients without overmixing, which could toughen the pancakes. Reserving some sausage and berries for topping adds visual appeal.
- Grease and Fill the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the batter mixture evenly into the dish, ensuring it spreads uniformly for consistent baking.
- Add Reserved Toppings
Sprinkle the reserved sausage pieces and blueberries over the surface. This step creates a flavorful, attractive topping that enhances both taste and presentation.
- Bake Until Set and Golden
Bake the casserole at 375°F for 40–45 minutes. Test the center with a toothpick to ensure it comes out clean, indicating the casserole is fully cooked through. The top should be golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve Warm with Optional Maple Syrup
Slice the casserole into 8 servings and drizzle additional maple syrup if desired. Serving warm brings out the full flavors and comforting texture of this hearty breakfast dish.
- For extra sweetness, add more maple syrup directly into the batter or as a drizzle on top.
- Other berries like raspberries or blackberries can be substituted for blueberries based on preference or availability.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven to retain moisture and flavor. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad and a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a complete brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a light green salad to balance the rich flavors.
- Brown sausage thoroughly and drain well to avoid greasy casserole texture.
- Fold ingredients gently into the batter to maintain a tender pancake crumb.
- Greasing the baking dish carefully ensures easy removal and clean serving slices.
FAQs
- Can I use regular pancake mix instead of gluten-free?
Yes, regular pancake mix works fine if gluten is not a concern. Adjust baking times slightly if needed.
- Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best texture.
- What type of sausage works best?
Ground turkey breakfast sausage is recommended for a leaner option, but pork sausage also adds great flavor.
- Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Yes, try adding sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or other berries for personalized variations.
- How to make it vegan?
Use vegan pancake mix and substitute maple-flavored vegan sausage or omit sausage and increase fruit.
- Is it possible to reduce sugar?
You can reduce or omit maple syrup for a less sweet casserole; blueberries add natural sweetness too.
- What is the best way to serve leftovers?
Warm slices in the microwave or oven, then add a drizzle of syrup or a dollop of yogurt for freshness.
Blueberry Sausage Pancake Casserole
Equipment
- 1 skillet for cooking sausage
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish greased with cooking spray
Ingredients
- 4 cups pancake mix
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries
- 3 cups water
- 1 lb cooked and drained turkey breakfast sausage
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Brown turkey breakfast sausage in a skillet, breaking into small pieces, then drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine pancake mix and water to prepare batter according to package instructions.
- Fold cooked sausage, blueberries, and maple syrup into the batter; reserve some sausage and blueberries for topping.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the batter mixture evenly into the pan.
- Sprinkle reserved sausage and blueberries over the top of the batter.
- Bake at 375°F for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Slice, drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra sweetness, increase maple syrup amount.
- Other berries like raspberries or strawberries can be substituted.
- Store leftovers covered in refrigerator and reheat before serving.
