Introduction

This easy breakfast casserole is a hearty and versatile dish perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Packed with eggs, cheese, bread, and your choice of vegetables and meats, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any taste.

The image shows a rectangular glass baking dish filled with a baked casserole that has a rustic, uneven top layer made from golden brown toasted bread chunks scattered throughout. Below the bread, there is a creamy mixture with visible green broccoli pieces, slices of brown mushrooms, and small bits of purple onion spread evenly. The casserole's colors range from golden brown on top to green and white mixed inside, with a slightly crispy texture on the surface and a soft, moist interior. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 to 10 large eggs
2 to 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
6 slices day-old bread, cut into 3/4-inch to 1-inch-wide cubes
2 cups milk
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 cup corn kernels, cooked or frozen (optional)
1/2 cup chopped broccoli, cooked or raw (optional)
1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
1 cup cubed ham and/or cooked Italian sausage (optional)
3 slices cooked bacon, chopped (optional)
1 teaspoon Herbes de Provence or other dried herbs, or 1 tablespoon fresh chopped herbs (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon cumin or curry powder (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prepare it for baking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Stir in the milk and grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
Step 3: Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and gently fold them in, ensuring all pieces are moistened without breaking them apart.
Step 4: Add salt and pepper to taste. If using Italian sausage, you may omit additional salt. Incorporate any optional additions such as vegetables, meats, and herbs. If you add a lot of extras, consider adding 1-2 more eggs with a splash of milk to maintain a good consistency.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set—that is, it springs back when gently touched.
Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest time helps it set and makes it easier to slice.

Tips & Variations

Using day-old bread helps it absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
Add fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a vibrant flavor boost.
Switch up the cheese to mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for different tastes.
For a vegetarian version, skip the meats and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate; bake it the next morning for convenience.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

A clear rectangular glass baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The top layer is a mix of toasted golden brown bread chunks, green broccoli pieces, small brown mushroom slices, and bits of red onions scattered evenly. The base layer appears soft and creamy with a melted cheese texture holding the vegetables and bread together. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, showing a warm, rustic baked meal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the bread cubes with gluten-free bread or use a mix of cooked potatoes or gluten-free crackers for a similar texture.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole the night before, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh in the morning. This makes breakfast preparation much easier on busy days.