Prepare a hearty breakfast casserole loaded with eggs, veggies, and cheese, perfect for meal prep or gatherings. This breakfast casserole is a delicious, easy meal you can make in just minutes. It’s perfect for brunch, busy mornings, or a weekend gathering and packed with flavor!
This breakfast casserole recipe is my go-to for effortless weekend brunches or busy weekday mornings. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, and the make-ahead feature is a lifesaver! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick and satisfying breakfast, this casserole is sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Casserole
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and simple instructions make this recipe perfect for beginners.
- Customizable Flavor: Easily adapt the veggies, cheese, and meats to suit your taste preferences.
- Versatile: Great for meal prep, brunch, or a casual dinner.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults will love.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 6 large eggs: Can substitute with 9 egg whites for a lower-fat option.
- 1 cup milk: Use whole milk for richness, or substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack.
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon or sausage: Omit for a vegetarian option, or use cooked breakfast sausage.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers: Any color works well; substitute with chopped spinach or mushrooms.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Substitute with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crispy texture; omit for a lower-carb option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk eggs and milk: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until light and frothy. Stir in salt and pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Add cooked bacon or sausage, bell peppers, onion, and cheese to the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine.
- Pour into baking dish: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Don’t overmix the egg mixture, as this can make the casserole tough.
- Adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, like chives or parsley, before baking can enhance the flavor.
Variations & Dietary Swaps
- Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or sausage and add extra vegetables like chopped broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
- Substitute different types of cheese or add in cooked chorizo or diced ham for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this breakfast casserole warm. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a side of fresh fruit, toast, or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for brunch, a weekend breakfast, or a make-ahead meal for a busy week.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Did you try this breakfast casserole? Leave a comment below!
FAQs About Easy Breakfast Casserole
Easy Breakfast Casserole
Prepare a hearty breakfast casserole loaded with eggs, veggies, and cheese perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs: Can substitute with 9 egg whites for a lower-fat option.
- 1 cup milk: Use whole milk for richness or substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack Colby, or pepper jack.
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked bacon or sausage: Omit for a vegetarian option or use cooked breakfast sausage.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers: Any color works well; substitute with chopped spinach or mushrooms.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Substitute with shallots or leeks for a milder flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a nice crispy texture; omit for a lower-carb option.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Whisk eggs and milk: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until light and frothy. Stir in salt and pepper.
- Combine ingredients: Add cooked bacon or sausage, bell peppers, onion, and cheese to the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine.
- Pour into baking dish: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs (if using).
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Serve this breakfast casserole warm. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a side of fresh fruit, toast, or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for brunch, a weekend breakfast, or a make-ahead meal for a busy week.
