Sausage And Waffle Casserole

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 375 degrees F.

Arrange waffles in single layer on baking sheet. Bake until crisp, about 10 minutes per side.

Brown sausage in nonstick skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with spoon, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain on paper-towel-lined plate.

Butter 8-inch-square baking dish. Add half of waffles in single layer. Add half of sausage and 1/2 cup cheese. Repeat layering of waffles, sausage, and 1/2 cup cheese. Whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup, salt, and pepper in medium bowl until combined. Pour egg mixture evenly over casserole. Cover baking dish with plastic wrap pressed firmly on the surface. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 325 degrees F. Let casserole stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. Uncover casserole and sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese over top. Bake until edges and center are puffed, 45 to 50 minutes. Cool 5 minutes. Cut into pieces and serve.