Apple-Pecan French Toast Casserole | Rachael Ray

Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 turns of the pan with EVOO, about 2 tablespoons. Add in breakfast sausage, thyme and sage, and cook until crisp and golden brown. Let cool.

With 1 tablespoon of butter, generously grease a 9x13 casserole dish. In the dish, toss the sausage and herb mixture with cubed bread, pecans and apples.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, 1/2 cup maple syrup, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt, and whisk until blended. Pour over the bread and sausage mixture, making sure its covered evenly. Cover with foil and place in the refrigerator overnight.

The next day, preheat the oven to 375F. Dot the top of the casserole with 1 stick of butter. Bake covered for 1 hour, until puffed and remove foil and bake uncovered until golden brown, around 15 minutes.

Over medium heat, in a small saucepot, combine 1/4 cup maple syrup, lemon peel and cinnamon stick until warmed through.

To serve, scoop casserole onto a plate and serve with warm maple syrup on top.