Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas
I love starting my day with a warm and satisfying breakfast, and this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese is my go-to recipe. The combination of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and crunchy vegetables creates a delightful morning meal that keeps me energized. Prepping this casserole the night before makes it even better, as the flavors meld beautifully. Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings, it’s a dish that always receives rave reviews and leaves everyone smiling.
When I first tried my hand at making this breakfast casserole, I was taken aback by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The key to a perfect casserole is using fresh ingredients and letting it bake long enough for those eggs to puff up and bring everything together. I often play around with the mix-ins, like adding sausage or different kinds of cheese, which keeps the dish exciting.
One helpful tip I discovered is to let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows it to set, making it easier to slice and serve. I guarantee that this breakfast casserole will impress your family and friends, just as it has mine!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying breakfast for the whole family
- Versatile ingredients to suit everyone's taste
- Easily make-ahead for busy mornings
Key Techniques for a Perfect Casserole
One of the most important techniques for successfully preparing a breakfast casserole is properly sautéing the vegetables. This not only enhances their flavors but also prevents excess moisture from ruining the casserole’s texture. Aim for a medium heat, cooking the vegetables until they are tender but not browned, about 5 minutes. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and greens should remain bright, adding to the visual appeal of your dish.
Another essential technique lies in whisking the egg mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture in the casserole. Make sure to whisk vigorously for about 1-2 minutes to incorporate air into the eggs. This will result in a lighter end product, ensuring that the casserole isn't dense. The inclusion of milk adds creaminess, so don’t skip this step; it balances the dish beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for various substitutions to meet dietary preferences or to use what you have on hand. You can easily replace the cheddar cheese with feta for a tangy twist or use dairy-free cheese alternatives for a lactose-free option. If you prefer plant-based proteins, consider substituting sausage with crumbled tofu seasoned with your favorite spices.
For the vegetables, feel free to mix it up based on seasonal availability. Zucchini, mushrooms, or kale can make fantastic additions or substitutes. This flexibility means you can always create a different version of this casserole based on what's fresh or available, keeping your breakfasts exciting all week long.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors tend to develop even further, making it a great meal to enjoy the following morning. For longer storage, consider freezing portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil; they can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also use the microwave; heat individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating. This way, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast without the hassle of starting from scratch each time.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, and spinach)
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your Breakfast Casserole.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
Mix the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine and Pour
Add the sautéed vegetables and cooked sausage (if using) to the egg mixture. Then stir in the shredded cheese. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake the Casserole
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly golden on top.
Cool and Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty breakfast!
Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Casserole!
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different vegetables and cheese choices to customize this casserole to your taste. You can also make it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a more balanced meal. For special occasions or family gatherings, consider serving it alongside a selection of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light homemade vinaigrette to brighten up the meal. The bright flavors of tomatoes or citrus fruits complement the richness of the cheese and eggs perfectly.
For a delightful brunch experience, you can offer a variety of toppings for guests to personalize their portions. Options like sliced avocado, hot sauce, or fresh herbs such as chives or parsley add a fresh twist. Providing different options also makes it a fun communal meal, letting everyone tailor their breakfast to their own taste.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you find your casserole is turning out too dry, consider checking the egg-to-milk ratio. Adding a little more milk can help achieve creamier results. Additionally, you may want to avoid overcooking; eyeing the casserole for a lightly golden top suggests doneness, rather than strictly relying on time. An oven thermometer is beneficial to ensure your oven is heating accurately.
On the other hand, if your casserole feels too soggy, it could be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. Make sure to sauté them adequately to remove moisture before adding them to the egg mixture. This pre-cooking step is vital to prevent watery results and helps in preserving the intended texture of the casserole.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
→ What vegetables work best in this casserole?
You can use a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
→ Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix different cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Breakfast Casserole is inherently gluten-free unless you add bread or other gluten-containing ingredients.
Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
I love starting my day with a warm and satisfying breakfast, and this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese is my go-to recipe. The combination of fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and crunchy vegetables creates a delightful morning meal that keeps me energized. Prepping this casserole the night before makes it even better, as the flavors meld beautifully. Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings, it’s a dish that always receives rave reviews and leaves everyone smiling.
Created by: Sophie Adams
Recipe Type: Home Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, and spinach)
- 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables and sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Add the sautéed vegetables and cooked sausage (if using) to the egg mixture. Then stir in the shredded cheese. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and lightly golden on top.
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty breakfast!
Extra Tips
- Experiment with different vegetables and cheese choices to customize this casserole to your taste. You can also make it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and just pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 380mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 22g