Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. This easy-to-make casserole combines crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and cheese, all baked together to create a delicious and filling meal. It’s an ideal choice for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead of time for busy mornings!

Ingredients List

For the Casserole:

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 4 cups cubed bread (such as sourdough, French bread, or whole wheat)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes for prep and 40 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 55 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom.
2. Add Bacon and Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese over the bread.
3. Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, bacon, and cheese. Press down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the egg mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	16g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Use Different Meats: Substitute bacon with cooked sausage, ham, or turkey bacon for variety.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, pepper jack, or gouda for unique flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole pairs well with:

• Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• A simple green salad to balance the richness.
• A hot cup of coffee or tea for a complete breakfast experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Greasing the Dish: Make sure to grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking.
2. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole to avoid overbaking, which can make it dry.
3. Using Stale Bread: Fresh bread works best, but if using stale bread, let it sit out for a few hours to soften slightly.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole 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.

Conclusion

In just under an hour, you can create Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole, a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast. This recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

What if I don’t have bacon?

You can use cooked sausage, ham, or even vegetables for a meatless version.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Yes! You can use low-fat or non-dairy milk, but the casserole may be slightly less rich.