Butter the bread and place in the bottom of the greased pan.
Brown sausage. Drain the grease and spread it on the bread. Next, spread the cheese on top of the sausage.
Whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, salt, and pepper. Pour on top of the sausage and cheese.
Bake for 45 minutes at 350 degrees. If you are making ahead, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. Set out 15 minutes before baking.
Notes
To lighten the recipe, substitute diced ham for the sausage and milk for the half and half. For extra flavor, add onions and green peppers. For a quick breakfast, bake in a jumbo muffin tin. Freeze the individual cups and reheat in the microwave.