Classic Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese
This classic breakfast casserole is a savory and satisfying dish, perfect for feeding a crowd. Cubed bread, eggs, milk, and cheese are layered with your choice of sausage or bacon, and vegetables, then baked until golden and fluffy.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- large skillet
- slotted spoon
- large bowl
- spatula
- plastic wrap
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6-8 slices day-old white or whole wheat bread crusts removed and cubed
- 10-12 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 1 lb cooked sausage or bacon crumbled (optional)
- ½ cup diced onion (optional)
- ½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch Nutmeg
Instructions
Preparation
- Lightly butter a 9x13 inch baking dish and arrange the cubed bread evenly at the bottom.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. If using, brown the sausage or bacon, then remove it with a slotted spoon.
Cooking
- Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the cooked meat and sautéed vegetables over the bread cubes, then scatter 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the layers.
Assembly and Baking
- Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture over the contents of the baking dish, ensuring all bread is moistened, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Uncover the casserole and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top before baking.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, prepare the casserole the night before so the bread has ample time to soak up the egg mixture. This makes for a more flavorful and cohesive casserole. Feel free to customize the vegetables and meat to your liking, or omit them for a vegetarian option.