Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Highlighted under: Hearty Home Classics
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese is my go-to recipe. It's incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized based on my pantry staples. Every bite is a delicious blend of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and savory ingredients that set a perfect tone for the day. Plus, I can prepare it ahead of time, allowing me to focus on enjoying my breakfast rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
When I first tried making a breakfast casserole, I was amazed by how versatile it could be! I experimented with different ingredients like vegetables, meats, and cheeses, and discovered that the key to a successful casserole is balancing the flavors and textures. Using a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella added depth, while the eggs provided a fluffy base that held everything together.
One tip I picked up along the way is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking before slicing. This allows it to set properly, making it easier to serve and ensuring each piece holds its shape. Trust me, patience pays off!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for busy mornings
- Easily customizable with whatever ingredients you have
- Great for making ahead and reheating later
- Delicious blend of textures and flavors in every bite
Ingredient Focus: The Power of Eggs and Cheese
The foundation of this casserole is the combination of eggs and cheese, which create a rich, fluffy texture that binds all the ingredients together. Eggs are not only a source of protein but also provide moisture, ensuring the casserole is neither dry nor rubbery. Using a blend of shredded cheddar and mozzarella adds depth; cheddar delivers sharpness while mozzarella offers a gooey texture when melted. Aim for a good quality cheese for the best flavor and stretch.
In addition to cheese, the vegetables play a crucial role in both flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and a bit of crunch, while spinach brings a fresh, earthy note. The key is to dice the vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and texture. If you're short on time, pre-diced or frozen vegetables can be used; just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture first to keep the casserole from becoming soggy.
Make-ahead Tips for Busy Mornings
One of the great advantages of this Breakfast Casserole is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and simply pour it into the baking dish when you're ready to bake. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
If you're planning to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely before packing it into an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Keep in mind that baking from frozen will require about 15-25 extra minutes, so check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center—the eggs should be fully set and the top golden.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make a scrumptious breakfast casserole!
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage (crumbled)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
These ingredients come together to create a breakfast dish that's satisfying and delightful!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make the Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Combine Ingredients
Fold in the shredded cheese, diced vegetables, and crumbled sausage into the egg mixture.
Pour and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Let it Rest
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Your breakfast casserole is ready to be enjoyed!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different meats or add some hot sauce for an extra kick!
Perfectly Baking Your Casserole
Cooking times may vary depending on your oven's calibration, but typically, a full bake should take about 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Look for visual cues such as a puffed texture and a golden-brown top to ensure that it is cooked through. An important tip is to avoid opening the oven door too often while baking, as this can cause temperature fluctuations that lead to undercooking.
To check for doneness without cutting into the casserole, gently shake the dish; if the center wobbles slightly but isn’t liquid, it’s close to being done. The final resting time of 5-10 minutes is essential for allowing the casserole to firm up for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This Breakfast Casserole can be served warm directly from the oven, but it also pairs beautifully with sides like fresh fruit, yogurt, or toast for a more balanced breakfast. If you want to elevate it, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of hot sauce for a delightful kick.
For those who might be looking for variations, consider swapping the breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or ham, or even going vegetarian by adding extra veggies and omitting the meat. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as feta for a tangy twist or pepper jack for a spicy option—just remember to maintain the overall volume so that the texture remains intact.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate, then bake it in the morning.
→ What vegetables work best in this recipe?
Bell peppers, onions, and spinach are great, but you can use any vegetables you prefer.
→ How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
→ Can I use egg substitutes?
Yes! You can use a mixture of silken tofu or commercial egg replacers as a substitute.
Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese is my go-to recipe. It's incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized based on my pantry staples. Every bite is a delicious blend of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and savory ingredients that set a perfect tone for the day. Plus, I can prepare it ahead of time, allowing me to focus on enjoying my breakfast rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Hearty Home Classics
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage (crumbled)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Fold in the shredded cheese, diced vegetables, and crumbled sausage into the egg mixture.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Extra Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different meats or add some hot sauce for an extra kick!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g