Introduction

Mornings can often feel rushed, and the last thing anyone wants is to spend time scrambling for breakfast. Enter the breakfast casserole — a delightful one-dish meal that can be put together the night before and left to bake while you savor your coffee.

This dish combines wholesome ingredients like eggs, bread, and vegetables, offering a satisfying meal filled with protein and fiber. Whether you're serving a crowd or simply feeding your family, this overnight breakfast casserole makes mornings deliciously easy.

Ingredients

8 large eggs
Eggs are the backbone of this casserole, providing structure and a rich, creamy texture. They also contribute protein, making the dish hearty and filling.
2 cups milk
Milk adds moisture and creaminess to the casserole, ensuring that the bread soaks up the flavors beautifully. You can choose whole, skim, or a non-dairy alternative based on dietary preferences.
4 cups cubed day-old bread
Using day-old bread allows it to absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. This adds a delightful texture and a base for the toppings to rest on.
1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled
Adding protein through sausage or bacon enhances the casserole's flavor profile and turns it into a more robust meal, perfect for starting your day.
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Cheese introduces a melty, savory layer that binds the casserole and provides a rich flavor. It also adds a delightful topping that becomes golden and bubbly during baking.
1 bell pepper, diced
Diced bell pepper adds color and a fresh crunch, elevating the flavor with its natural sweetness and serving as a great source of vitamins.
1 small onion, chopped
Onions bring a depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste with their caramelized sweetness when baked.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder intensifies the flavor profile and gives the casserole a comforting aroma, making it more appealing and inviting.
Salt and pepper to taste
Seasoning is essential for balancing the flavors in the casserole. Adjust these to your preference to ensure a well-rounded dish.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Preheating the oven is crucial to ensure that the casserole bakes evenly from the start. A hot oven will help achieve that delightful golden top while cooking through the layers without excess moisture.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Combining the eggs and milk thoroughly ensures a uniform mixture that will contribute to the custard-like texture of the casserole. Make sure to whisk until well-blended to avoid any egg solids in the final dish.

Step 3: Add in the diced bread, sausage or bacon, cheese, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Incorporating all the ingredients at this stage allows each element to coat with the egg mixture, promoting even flavor distribution. Ensure all bread pieces are submerged to achieve the ideal blend of flavors and textures.

Step 4: Mix everything gently until well-combined.

Gently folding the ingredients prevents the bread from breaking down too much. This helps maintain nice chunks, which will bake up beautifully, creating distinct layers of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Properly greasing your dish is key to preventing sticking, which would ruin the perfect texture of your casserole. A 9×13-inch dish is an ideal size, allowing for optimal cooking time and even baking.

Step 6: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Refrigerating overnight allows the bread to fully soak in the egg mixture, leading to a richer texture and deeper flavor in the morning. This step is vital for achieving the perfect consistency.

Step 7: In the morning, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

Bringing the dish to room temperature helps it bake more evenly and reduces the shock of the cold mixture hitting the hot oven. Allowing it to rest ensures a fluffier, more cohesive outcome.

Step 8: Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Baking time can vary, so checking for a golden brown top is crucial. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. This ensures that the casserole is set and not too runny.

Step 9: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooling slightly before serving helps set the casserole, preventing excessive collapsing upon cutting. This step preserves its shape, making for a more visually appealing dish.

The Ultimate Overnight Breakfast Casserole step photo

The Versatility of Fillings

One of the pros of an overnight breakfast casserole is its versatility in fillings. Beyond the classic sausage or bacon, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch. You can adjust the ingredients based on seasonal offerings or personal favorites, allowing for endless variations that keep breakfast exciting.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole is not just a crowd-pleaser; it also serves as an excellent option for meal prep. You can easily portion leftovers for quick breakfasts throughout the week. Just slice and store in individual containers, then reheat in the microwave for a convenient, hearty morning meal that fuels your day without fuss.

Breakfast Casserole as a Brunch Showstopper

Impress your guests by serving this breakfast casserole at your next brunch gathering. Its inviting aroma and golden appearance will draw everyone to the table. Pair it with fresh fruit, a side salad, or light pastries for a well-rounded spread that caters to various taste preferences, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

FAQs

What can I do if my casserole is too wet after baking?

If the casserole turns out too wet, it may need more time in the oven. Allow it to bake longer while checking to prevent burning. Alternatively, adding more bread or cheese can help absorb extra moisture.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! Different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack will add unique flavors. Just remember that strong cheeses might alter the overall taste profile.

How can I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

To scale down, simply halve the ingredient amounts and use a smaller baking dish. This retains the flavors without significantly altering cooking times.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry?

If your casserole ends up too dry, consider adding a splash more milk before baking. If it's already baked, serving with a drizzle of sauce or gravy can help moisten each portion.

Can I add herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish?

Yes, adding herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme can elevate the flavor. Fresh herbs can be incorporated into the mixture, providing a burst of freshness.

What vegetables work well in this casserole besides bell peppers?

You can incorporate a variety of vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or broccoli. Just ensure they are pre-cooked or have lower moisture content to avoid sogginess.

What if I want to make a spicier version of this casserole?

For a spicier twist, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture. This will give your breakfast casserole an exciting kick.

Is it possible to use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Certainly! Fresh herbs can brighten the dish significantly. Use them in larger quantities than dried herbs since they tend to have a milder flavor.

Conclusion

An overnight breakfast casserole is not only a practical solution for busy mornings but a canvas for creativity as well. Adjust ingredients to fit your taste, and you’ll find this dish becomes a staple in your home.

With flavors that meld beautifully overnight, this casserole simplifies mealtime while allowing for personalization, paving the way for countless memories over shared breakfasts. Consume at your leisure, savoring each delicious bite.

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