This Bacon Breakfast Casserole brings together eggs, cheese, and crispy bacon for a tasty morning treat. It’s super easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd!
I love making this casserole because you can prepare it ahead of time. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and breakfast is served! Who doesn’t love that? 🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon is the star here! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can work too. Just note they might need a bit less cooking time.
Eggs: This recipe uses large eggs, but if you’re in a pinch, you can substitute with egg whites or a plant-based egg alternative if you’re vegan.
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite, but you can also mix it up with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor.
Bread: While white bread is common, consider using whole grain or sourdough for added texture and taste. Gluten-free bread works too if you’re avoiding gluten.
Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers add good flavor. Feel free to use any veggies you have on hand, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Doesn’t Get Soggy?
To avoid a soggy casserole, here are my tips:
- Use day-old bread if possible; it’s drier and holds up better.
- Cook your bacon until crispy; this helps retain its texture and flavor.
- Make sure to mix the egg and milk gently with the bread so it doesn’t soak too much before baking.
- Let the casserole cool a bit after baking to set properly before serving.
Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Bacon Breakfast Casserole with family and friends! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
How to Make Bacon Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 10 slices of bacon, cooked and chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices of white bread, cubed
For the Garnish:
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bacon Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake, for a total of about 1 hour. It’s great for meal prep, as you can put it together the night before and just pop it in the oven the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly. While that heats up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the Bacon:
Next, cook the bacon in a skillet until it’s nice and crispy! Once done, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and set them aside. Don’t forget to enjoy a piece or two while you’re cooking; they’re delicious!
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is well blended and bubbly. This will be the base of your casserole.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture, along with the chopped bacon (save a little for later), diced onion, and bell pepper, if you’re using it. Stir gently until everything is combined so the bread absorbs some of the egg mixture.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now it’s time to fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds all that yummy cheesiness to your casserole!
6. Pour into the Dish:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. To make it extra cheesy and flavorful, sprinkle the remaining cheese and any leftover bacon pieces on top.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is all golden and bubbly.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set a bit more. Before serving, sprinkle on your diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and parsley for a fresh touch!
Enjoy your hearty and delicious Bacon Breakfast Casserole with family and friends! It’s a perfect dish to kick off the day and will surely leave everyone asking for seconds!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even diced ham can work well. For a vegetarian alternative, try using a meat substitute or just load up on more vegetables!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add in other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to sauté any watery veggies first to prevent a soggy casserole!