Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Highlighted under: Hearty & Comforting
I absolutely love making this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese for weekend brunches. It’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd, and I can prep it all the night before. The combination of fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and hearty veggies or meats creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, it's so versatile! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a hit every time. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!
As I first experimented with this breakfast casserole, I knew I wanted something rich and satisfying. I layered eggs, cheese, and a medley of my favorite veggies, and the result was nothing short of divine. Baking it slowly allowed the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a texture that's both creamy and fulfilling.
One of the best tips I learned is to let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking before cutting. This rest time allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Trust me; it enhances the overall experience, and your guests will be raving about it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and satisfying flavors that please any palate
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
Ingredient Insights
The eggs in this casserole create the perfect base, providing moisture and binding the ingredients together. I recommend using large eggs for the best consistency, as they whip together easily and contribute to a fluffy texture. If you're aiming for a lighter version, you can substitute some of the eggs with egg whites or use a combination of whole eggs and egg substitutes, which will still yield a satisfying dish.
Choosing the right cheese is crucial for flavor and texture. Cheddar adds a sharpness that complements the eggs beautifully, while mozzarella offers a stretchy creaminess. For a unique twist, consider adding some feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick. Just make sure to shred the cheese yourself, as pre-shredded options often contain anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.
Perfecting Your Bake
When layering your casserole, ensure even distribution of vegetables and meats, allowing every bite to be flavorful. It's best to cook any raw meats beforehand to a safe temperature, as this ensures all components are properly cooked by the end of the baking time. You want to look for the eggs to be set but still slightly jiggly in the center; this indicates a moist texture without being runny.
After baking, letting the casserole rest for about 10 minutes allows it to firm up, making it easier to slice into squares. If you happen to overbake it, the eggs may become dry and rubbery. Keep an eye on the edges, which should be golden but not too dark—a clear sign that your casserole is perfectly baked.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
- 1 cup cooked meats (sausage, bacon, or ham)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Mix and match your favorite ingredients to make this casserole uniquely yours!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Layer the Ingredients
Spread the diced vegetables and cooked meats evenly in the baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste! You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs before serving to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best features of this breakfast casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the entire dish the night before, simply covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps to ensure even cooking by bringing the ingredients closer to room temperature.
If you're preparing for a larger gathering or want to freeze leftovers, cut the casserole into squares after baking and allow them to cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. These individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving the casserole with a fresh salad or cut fruit to balance the richness of the eggs and cheese. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette can add a nice touch. For extra flavor, top each portion with salsa, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream for a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in your next version of this casserole. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten the dish, while spices like cumin or smoked paprika can add depth. These variations can transform your breakfast casserole, making it a new favorite each time you make it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it in the morning!
→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?
You can use any vegetables you like! Bell peppers, tomatoes, and spinach are all great options.
→ Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just wrap in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
→ How do I reheat the casserole?
Reheat slices in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
I absolutely love making this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese for weekend brunches. It’s the perfect dish for feeding a crowd, and I can prep it all the night before. The combination of fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and hearty veggies or meats creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, it's so versatile! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a hit every time. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Hearty & Comforting
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
- 1 cup cooked meats (sausage, bacon, or ham)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spread the diced vegetables and cooked meats evenly in the baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs before serving to enhance both flavor and presentation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 22g