This Egg Breakfast Casserole is packed with fluffy eggs, tasty veggies, and cheese. It’s a great way to start your day and perfect for feeding a crowd!
I love making this dish on lazy Sunday mornings. Just mix everything in one pan, pop it in the oven, and let it bake while I enjoy my coffee. So simple and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are key for fluffiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites. This still gives a good texture!
Milk: Use whole or 2% milk for creaminess, but you can swap it with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just make sure it’s unsweetened!
Bread: Day-old bread works great, but any leftover bread can do! Try whole grain or sourdough for added flavor. Gluten-free bread options are available if needed.
Bacon: I love crispy bacon in this recipe, but you could easily use turkey bacon or even sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a vegetarian twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or pepper jack add a nice kick, and feta cheese can bring a different flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
Veggies: Broccoli and mushrooms are my favorite, but you can incorporate any veggies you like! Zucchini, tomatoes, or peppers also work well in this casserole.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole is Cooked Perfectly?
To bake your Egg Breakfast Casserole perfectly, focus on even cooking. Start by making sure your oven is preheated. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after pouring in the egg mixture. This helps the bread soak in the flavors.
- Bake uncovered to get that golden brown top—but keep an eye on it! Ovens can vary.
- Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s good to go. If it’s still runny, give it a few more minutes.
- Allow it to rest after baking. This helps set the eggs and makes for cleaner cuts when serving.
Following these tips will help you achieve a beautifully cooked casserole each time!
Delicious Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old or toasted bread, cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Egg Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 40-45 minutes to bake it in the oven. Just add a little cooling time afterward, and you’re ready to serve a hearty breakfast for your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Getting Started:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch casserole dish and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This helps keep the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together the 8 large eggs with 1 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix it well until everything is nicely combined.
3. Assemble the Layers:
Next, spread the 4 cups of bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the greased casserole dish. Then, evenly distribute the chopped bacon, broccoli, mushrooms, and onions over the bread. Don’t forget to also sprinkle the cheese on top!
4. Pour on the Egg Mixture:
Now, take your egg mixture and pour it over all the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. Make sure every piece of bread gets soaked up with the egg mixture for that perfect flavor.
5. Let It Soak:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes. This soaking time helps the bread absorb the eggs, leading to a fluffy texture.
6. Bake Away!
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it—a good indication that it’s done is when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Finishing Touch:
Once it’s perfectly baked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting it into squares. This waiting time will help it set up nicely.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your warm Egg Breakfast Casserole and enjoy a delightful breakfast that everyone will love!
This recipe is a wonderful way to start the day, blending fluffy eggs with savory bacon, crunchy veggies, and cheesy goodness. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as whole grain, sourdough, or gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up when soaked in the egg mixture!
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven.
Is This Recipe Customizable?
Definitely! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, swapping out the bacon for sausage or ham, or using different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
