Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese

Name: Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 4 cups cubed crusty bread; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional); 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese for weekend brunches! It's a dish that combines comfort and flavor, providing a satisfying start to the day. The creamy texture of the eggs mixed with melted cheese makes for a delightful experience. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the meal with family and friends. Whether serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy morning, this casserole never disappoints. Trust me, once you try it, you'll keep coming back for more!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-15T06:23:36.784Z

One of my favorite memories is gathering around the table with family as this Breakfast Casserole fills the house with its irresistible aroma. I love exploring different cheese combinations, but my go-to is sharp cheddar for that extra kick. With fresh eggs and slightly toasted bread, each bite is a balanced delight of textures and flavors.

When perfecting this recipe, I learned that letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set nicely, making it easier to slice and serve. Don't rush this step; it makes all the difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for family gatherings
Easily customizable with your choice of vegetables or meats
Minimal prep time means more time to enjoy your brunch

Choosing the Right Bread

The choice of bread is crucial for achieving the right texture in your Breakfast Casserole. I recommend using a rustic, crusty bread like sourdough or ciabatta, which will soak up the egg mixture beautifully without becoming overly mushy. Ensure that the bread is slightly stale or day-old, as this will help it maintain its structure during baking. If you're in a pinch, you can also use French or Italian bread; just avoid soft sandwich bread, which can make the casserole soggy.

Cubing the bread into 1-inch pieces allows for uniform soaking, promoting even distribution of flavors throughout the casserole. You'll want to toss the cubed bread in the egg mixture gently to coat each piece thoroughly, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful. If you're feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some leftover bagels or croissants for a unique twist!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Breakfast Casserole lies in its versatility. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute low-fat milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk without compromising the creamy texture of the dish. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. These not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your casserole.

Feeling adventurous? Spice it up by incorporating different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or feta for a Mediterranean flair. You can also experiment with the addition of seasonings like smoked paprika or fresh herbs such as basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile. Making small tweaks to the ingredients can lead to exciting and delicious variations of this classic dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the casserole in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also make it ahead of time by assembling the casserole the night before, then covering it with plastic wrap and baking it fresh in the morning. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time for a cold casserole straight from the fridge.

To reheat, cut the casserole into portions and place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If you're in a hurry, you can microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, though baking gives you a better texture and ensures that the cheese remains deliciously bubbly. Enjoy this comforting dish any day of the week!

Ingredients

Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 cups cubed crusty bread
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Mix and match ingredients to fit your taste!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Mix

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

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the cubed bread, shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, sausage (if using), and green onions until evenly mixed.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown on top.

Let it Cool

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your hearty breakfast!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some herbs, like thyme or parsley, on top before serving. You can also prepare this the night before
just cover it and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a fresh, hot meal!

Serving Suggestions

To amp up your brunch presentation, serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad complements the richness of the eggs and cheese beautifully. You can also add a platter of assorted fruits for a delightful balance of flavors and colors. Consider offering a variety of condiments, such as salsa, hot sauce, or even a dollop of sour cream for guests to customize their servings.

For a truly indulgent experience, slice and serve the casserole with crispy bacon or ham on the side. This adds an extra layer of flavor and heartiness to the meal, making it feel even more special for weekend gatherings. Don't forget to brew a pot of coffee or prepare mimosas to elevate your brunch atmosphere!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole turns out too dry, it may be due to insufficient liquid absorption during the soaking process. Ensure that the bread is adequately saturated with the egg mixture before baking. If you notice it getting too brown before it's fully cooked, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning while it finishes cooking.

On the other hand, if the casserole is too soggy, it might be due to using fresh bread or not allowing the mixture to sit long enough for the bread to absorb the liquid. In such cases, make sure to let your prepared casserole rest for at least 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This resting period helps the bread absorb the mixture better, ensuring a perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning!

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great additions.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.