Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious breakfast option, this Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. Packed with savory meats, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese, this casserole is great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can even be made ahead of time. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want an easy family breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
– ½ pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
– 6 large eggs
– 1½ cups whole milk (or half-and-half)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– 4 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old or toasted white bread)
– 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup chopped green onions (optional)
– Optional add-ins: diced bell peppers, mushrooms, jalapeños
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 8-10
Directions
1. **Cook the Meats:**
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
2. **Prepare the Egg Mixture:**
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. **Assemble the Bake:**
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and bacon over the bread. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese over the meat layer. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if using.
4. **Bake:**
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating optional add-ins like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños into the egg mixture before pouring it over the bread. This dish can be prepared the night before. After assembling, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Meats
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbly. Drain excess grease.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Assemble the Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage and bacon over the bread. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella cheese over the meat layer. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if using.
Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Flavor Enhancements
For added flavor, consider incorporating optional add-ins like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños into the egg mixture before pouring it over the bread.
Make Ahead
This dish can be prepared the night before. After assembling, cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Cook techniques
Cooking Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, chop and cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. This renders the fat and enhances the flavor of the dish, lending a savory aspect to your casserole.
Cooking Sausage
Use the same skillet to cook your breakfast sausage until it is browned and crumbly. This method allows the sausage to pick up some of the flavors from the bacon, infusing richness into the meal.
Whisking Eggs
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This process incorporates air into the eggs, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Assembling the Casserole
Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer cubed bread evenly, followed by the cooked meats and shredded cheeses. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid, which is essential for a well-moistened dish.
Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 40–45 minutes. This allows the top to develop a golden crust while cooking the center until set.
FAQ
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Yes, feel free to use any type of bread you prefer, but day-old or toasted bread works best for better absorption of the egg mixture.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I add for more flavor?
Optional add-ins like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños can be incorporated into the egg mixture before pouring it over the bread for added flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I use reduced-fat milk?
Yes, you can use reduced-fat milk or half-and-half as a substitute for whole milk; however, using whole milk will yield a creamier texture.
Conclusion
This breakfast casserole is a hearty and delicious way to start the day, combining the savory flavors of bacon and sausage with fluffy eggs and creamy cheese. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy mornings. Enjoy the versatile nature of this dish by trying different ingredients to tailor it to your taste.
Vegetable Medley Breakfast Casserole
Incorporate diced bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Mexican-Inspired Breakfast Casserole
Add jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a spicy kick.
Sweet and Savory Casserole
Mix in some diced apples or pears and a hint of cinnamon for a unique sweet twist.
Italian Breakfast Bake
Use Italian sausage, add diced tomatoes, and top with fresh basil for an Italian flair.
Smoky BBQ Casserole
Substitute the bacon for smoked sausage and drizzle with BBQ sauce before serving for a smoky flavor.
Herbed Cheese Casserole
Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta, along with fresh herbs for a more gourmet touch.
