If you’re looking for a simple way to feed a crowd or just make breakfast easy for the week, a breakfast casserole is often the answer. I love how you can prepare them ahead of time, pop them in the oven, and have a warm, satisfying meal with minimal fuss.
Today, I’m sharing two fantastic breakfast casserole recipes that are sure to be a hit. Whether you prefer a classic egg casserole or something with a bit more zing, I have you covered. These recipes are perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or even a nice brunch with friends.
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Classic Egg Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This easy egg breakfast casserole is a weekend hero. It comes together quickly and bakes into a fluffy, cheesy breakfast that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Bread Choice: Using stale bread works best because it soaks up the egg mixture without getting soggy. French bread or sourdough are good options.
- Cheese Blend: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a good melty texture and rich taste. You can also add a little Parmesan.
- Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients and color. Cook them first to remove excess moisture.
What You Need
- 8 large eggs
- 1.5 cups milk (any kind)
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 6 slices bread, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup cooked ham or sausage, diced (optional)
- 0.25 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
⏱️ Time: 55 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Prep and Mix
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Place the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, and then add any optional ingredients like ham or bell pepper. Pour the egg mixture over everything, making sure the bread is soaked.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and lightly golden brown on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
📝 Final Note
You can prepare this casserole the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Hearty Firemans Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Firemans Breakfast Casserole is packed with potatoes, sausage, and a little kick of spice. It’s a truly satisfying dish that will keep you going all morning long.
Key Ingredients & Tips
- Potato Base: Using frozen hash brown potatoes saves time. For a firmer base, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes before adding to the casserole.
- Sausage Choice: A good quality breakfast sausage adds great flavor. If you like heat, use a spicy sausage, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to regular sausage.
- Flavor Depth: Don’t skip the onion and bell pepper; they add essential aromatics and a bit of freshness to the rich ingredients.
What You Need
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
⏱️ Time: 70 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8-10 servings
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook Sausage & Veggies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, and hot sauce (if using). Make sure it’s all blended well.
Step 3: Layer and Bake
Spread the frozen hash brown potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle with half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers, then top with the remaining cheese. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before you slice and serve it. This helps the casserole set and makes for cleaner cuts.
📝 Final Note
For a crispier potato base, you can par-bake the hash browns for 15 minutes before adding other ingredients.