There’s something special about waking up to the smell of a warm, hearty breakfast cooking in the oven. An Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to feed a family or group of friends while still keeping things simple and stress-free. With its fluffy eggs, gooey melted cheese, and endless customization options, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, making your mornings as relaxed as possible.
Below, you'll find everything you need to know to whip up this comforting breakfast dish. Whether you’re treating your loved ones to a weekend feast or prepping for a busy weekday morning, this casserole has got you covered.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make an Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole. Simple, wholesome ingredients come together for a satisfying dish:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% work best)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups bread cubes (about 4-5 slices of slightly stale bread)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage, bacon, or diced ham (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced onions or bell peppers (optional, for added flavor)
- Cooking spray or butter for the baking dish
Tools You’ll Need:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil (if covering while baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your casserole comes out easily and your cleanup is quick.
Step 2: Combine the Base
Cube the slices of bread and place them evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Stale bread works great here, as it absorbs the egg mixture better, but fresh bread works just fine too!
If you're adding protein like cooked sausage, bacon, or diced ham, layer it on top of the bread cubes. You can also add chopped onions, bell peppers, or other veggies at this stage for extra flavor and a pop of color.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard
Grab a large mixing bowl and crack in the eggs. Whisk them until combined. Add the milk, salt, and pepper, and whisk again until smooth. This creamy mixture is the heart of the casserole, keeping everything moist and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Stir 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese into the egg mixture, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and add-ins in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes with the back of a spoon to make sure everything is well-soaked. Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden-brown and the eggs are set. You’ll know it’s done when the center doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the dish.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time makes it easier to serve neat portions.
Tips for Customization and Serving
- Mix Up the Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Swiss, feta, or even spicy pepper Jack for a kick.
- Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños make excellent additions if you'd like to sneak in some veggies.
- Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Prepare Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it fresh in the morning!
- Serve with Sides: Pair it with fresh fruit, buttery biscuits, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a versatile dish that everyone will love. It’s comforting, cheesy, and just the right amount of indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, serving a special holiday breakfast, or just looking for a no-fuss family meal, this recipe hits the mark. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious reheated, making it a great option to enjoy over a couple of days.
Get ready to savor every cheesy, egg-filled bite. Happy cooking, and enjoy!
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