1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then mix in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
5. Fold in the cooked, crumbled sausage and half of the maple syrup.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and drizzle the remaining maple syrup over the top before serving.

Growing up, my abuela always said that cooking was about intuition and love. As you prepare this casserole, let your senses guide you—smell the sweetness of the syrup, listen to the sizzle of the sausage, and watch the batter rise and brown in the oven. These are the small joys that make cooking an act of care.