I love starting my mornings with a delicious breakfast casserole. It’s one of those dishes that not only tastes amazing but also sets you up for a great day ahead. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug. This breakfast casserole is perfect for busy mornings, special gatherings, or those lazy brunch weekends when you want something filling without putting in too much effort.
The combination of eggs, milk, shredded potatoes, crumbled bacon, and melted cheese creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The golden, fluffy eggs pair perfectly with the crispy bacon and creamy cheese, making this a beloved dish for everyone, from your kids to your brunch buddies. Plus, it can easily be made ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your breakfast.
Why you’ll love this
- Fast and easy to prepare for a crowd.
- Flavorful blend of eggs, bacon, and cheese.
- Perfect for meal prepping.
- Fewer dishes make cleanup a breeze.
- Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
“This breakfast casserole is always a hit with my family!”
Step-by-step overview
Making this breakfast casserole is a straightforward process. You’ll start by whisking together the eggs and milk before adding in the other ingredients like shredded potatoes, cooked bacon, and cheese. After mixing everything together, you’ll pour the mixture into a baking dish and let the oven do its magic. In about 30-40 minutes, you’ll have a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready to be served!
What you’ll need
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded potatoes
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Eggs: Provide essential protein and richness to the casserole.
- Milk: Keeps the casserole moist; you could substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Shredded Potatoes: These can be replaced with fresh hash browns for a different texture.
- Bacon: Try swapping with sausage or turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.
How to make it
This breakfast casserole is as simple to make as it is delicious. You’ll see how the ingredient layers come together in the oven for a wonderful dish.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined.
- Add the shredded potatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using) to the egg mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined and evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your make-ahead breakfast!
Pro Tip:
For a fluffier casserole, beat the egg mixture for an extra minute to incorporate more air before baking.
Visual doneness cues: Look for a firm set in the center of the casserole, and a golden-brown top that invites you to dig in.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best taste—from freshly grated cheese to freshly cut vegetables.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
- If you prefer crispier bacon, you might sauté it before adding it to the casserole.
Serving suggestions
This breakfast casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some fresh fruit. You can garnish each slice with chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. It’s also delightful served with a side of toast or English muffins to soak up any delicious egg filling.
Storage & reheating tips
Once the casserole has cooled down, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated easily in the microwave or in an oven until warmed through. This dish can be enjoyed hot or even at room temperature, making it perfect for meal prep.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If your casserole turns out dry, consider adding more liquid next time or adjusting the baking time. A soggy casserole can occur from too much moisture; ensure to drain any excessive fluid from the potatoes if using frozen ones. If it’s bland, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or your favorite spices.
Recipe variations
Feel free to get creative with this breakfast casserole! You can add in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrition. For a southwestern twist, try adding jalapeños and swapping the cheddar for pepper jack cheese. You can also make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding more veggies.
Common questions
Can I prepare the casserole the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate it. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if baking directly from the fridge.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Can I freeze breakfast casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just cool it completely, then wrap it tightly. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
What can I use instead of potatoes?
You could use cooked quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even skip them altogether in favor of more eggs or vegetables.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or even feta cheese for different flavor profiles.
This breakfast casserole has become a favorite in my home, and I truly believe it can be a wonderful addition to yours. It’s comforting, satisfying, and brings a smile to faces at that breakfast table. Enjoy!
Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined.
- Add the shredded potatoes, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using) to the egg mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined and evenly distributed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.