Some recipes are perfect for special occasions, while others are made for busy mornings, casual gatherings, and hungry families. These 3-Ingredient Cheesy Sausage Squares are a simple option when you want something savory, filling, and easy to prepare.
The recipe combines browned breakfast sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix. Everything is pressed into a baking dish and baked until golden and cooked through.
The finished squares have crisp edges, a tender center, and plenty of savory sausage and cheese flavor. They work well for breakfast, brunch, potlucks, game-day gatherings, or an easy snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 3 Main Ingredients: Simple ingredients make this recipe easy to prepare.
Easy Preparation: There is no dough to roll or individual pieces to shape.
Great for Breakfast: Serve them alongside eggs, fruit, or hash browns.
Party-Friendly: Cut them into small squares for an appetizer tray.
Make-Ahead Friendly: They can be refrigerated and gently reheated.
Customizable: Use different cheeses or sausage varieties to change the flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 pound breakfast sausage, mild or hot
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups baking mix, such as a Bisquick-style baking mix
That’s all you need for the basic three-ingredient version.
Optional Add-Ins
If you would like to add more flavor, consider:
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons chopped green onions
1/4 cup finely diced jalapeños
A small amount of smoked paprika
These additions are optional and are not necessary for the basic recipe.
How to Make Southern Sausage Squares
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter.
For easier removal, you can line the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides.
2. Cook the Sausage
Place the breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat.
Break the sausage into small pieces with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks.
Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and no longer pink.
Drain the excess grease thoroughly, then allow the sausage to cool for several minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Place the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and baking mix in a large mixing bowl.
Stir until the ingredients are evenly combined.
The mixture will be thick and may look somewhat crumbly at first. Avoid adding extra liquid unless the mixture is unusually dry.
4. Press Into the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Use your hands, a spatula, or the back of a spoon to press it into an even layer.
Make sure the mixture reaches the corners so it cooks evenly.
5. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center is cooked through.
Because ovens and baking dishes can vary, begin checking near the lower end of the recommended baking time.
6. Cool and Slice
Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the sausage mixture to rest for several minutes.
For cleaner slices, let it cool slightly before cutting.
Use a sharp knife to cut it into squares or rectangles. Smaller pieces are convenient for appetizers, while larger pieces work well for breakfast.
Tips for Better Sausage Squares
Drain the Sausage Well
Excess grease can make the finished squares oily. After browning the sausage, drain it thoroughly before adding it to the mixing bowl.
Measure the Baking Mix Carefully
Adding too much baking mix can result in a dry or dense texture. Use the recommended amount and avoid adding extra flour unless necessary.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but freshly shredded cheddar often melts smoothly and distributes well throughout the mixture.
Don’t Overbake
The squares should be cooked through without becoming excessively dry. Start checking them toward the end of the suggested baking time.
Let Them Rest Before Cutting
The mixture will be soft immediately after coming out of the oven. A short resting period allows the cheese and baked mixture to firm up.
Easy Variations
Spicy Sausage Squares
Use hot breakfast sausage for a stronger, spicier flavor. You can also add a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
Pepper Jack Sausage Squares
Replace some of the cheddar with shredded pepper Jack cheese for a mildly spicy variation.
Sausage and Green Onion
Add finely chopped green onions to the mixture before pressing it into the baking dish.
Smoky Cheddar
Use smoked cheddar cheese or add a small amount of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Jalapeño and Cheese
Add finely diced jalapeños for extra heat. Drain them well if they contain excess moisture.
What to Serve With Sausage Squares
For breakfast or brunch, serve the squares with:
Scrambled eggs
Fresh fruit
Hash browns
Biscuits
Fresh berries
Orange juice
Coffee
For an appetizer or party, you can serve smaller pieces with dipping options such as hot sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a mild creamy sauce.
Can You Make Them Ahead?
Yes. The baked squares can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the desired amount in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through. A microwave can also be used for a quicker option, although the edges may not remain as crisp.
Can You Freeze Sausage Squares?
Yes. After cooling, cut the squares into individual portions and wrap them well.
Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag and label them with the date.
For best quality, use them within approximately 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey sausage?
Yes. Turkey breakfast sausage can be substituted for pork sausage. Because turkey sausage can contain less fat, the texture may be slightly different.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, Colby, pepper Jack, or a cheddar blend can also work.
Can I use hot breakfast sausage?
Absolutely. Hot sausage adds more seasoning and heat without requiring additional ingredients.
Why are my sausage squares dry?
Too much baking mix or overbaking can make the squares dry. Measure the baking mix carefully and begin checking the center toward the end of the recommended cooking time.
Why are my sausage squares greasy?
The sausage may contain a significant amount of rendered fat. Drain it thoroughly after browning before mixing it with the cheese and baking mix.
Can I make smaller appetizer pieces?
Yes. Bake the mixture as one slab and allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into small squares. This makes it easier to create evenly sized appetizer portions.
Can I prepare the sausage ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook and drain the sausage in advance and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to make the recipe, combine it with the cheese and baking mix and bake as directed.
A Simple Recipe for Breakfast or Gatherings
- These 3-Ingredient Cheesy Sausage Squares are a practical recipe to keep on hand when you need a simple savory dish without a long preparation process.
- Brown the sausage, combine it with cheddar and baking mix, press the mixture into a pan, and bake until golden and cooked through.
- The basic recipe uses only three main ingredients, while the optional additions make it easy to adjust the flavor for different occasions.
- Serve the squares for breakfast, brunch, or as a party appetizer, and store any leftovers in the refrigerator for another meal or snack.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: About 35 minutes
Servings: 24 small squares
Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.