A breakfast casserole is a fantastic way to start your day, offering a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead for busy mornings. This dish combines eggs, protein, vegetables, and cheese into a warm, comforting bake that’s both filling and flavorful. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious breakfast casserole that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative)
- 2 cups cooked sausage or bacon (crumbled or chopped)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
- 2 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
- 1 cup diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano, basil, or thyme, optional)
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Protein: If you’re using sausage or bacon, cook it thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice your choice of vegetables. You can sauté them lightly for extra flavor or leave them raw if you prefer a crunchier texture.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Bread Cubes: Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will form the base of your casserole.
- Add the Protein and Vegetables: Sprinkle the cooked sausage or bacon and the chopped vegetables over the bread cubes.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top.
4. Make the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs until well combined.
5. Pour and Top
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, protein, and vegetables in the baking dish. Make sure everything is well-covered.
- Add the Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
6. Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm with your favorite breakfast sides, like fresh fruit, yogurt, or toast.
Tips for Customizing Your Breakfast Casserole:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to mix in more veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Switch Up the Protein: Try using ham, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or omit the bread altogether for a lower-carb option.
A breakfast casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning, or bake it ahead of time and reheat individual portions throughout the week. Enjoy the convenience and satisfaction of a homemade breakfast that’s sure to please everyone at the table!