Egg Casserole Breakfast Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Make-Ahead Meal
Are you looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast that's also easy to prepare? Look no further than the egg casserole! This versatile dish is perfect for busy week mornings, weekend brunches, or even make-ahead meals for the week. This recipe provides a delicious and customizable base, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs.
Why You'll Love This Egg Casserole Recipe
This egg casserole recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and simply bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, meats, and cheeses to create a unique breakfast experience each time.
- Hearty and Satisfying: A perfect way to start the day with a filling and flavorful meal that will keep you going.
- Great for Crowds: Easily scaled up or down to feed a family or a larger group.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses readily available ingredients, making it an economical choice.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe provides a basic foundation. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you need.
- 6 large eggs: The foundation of our delicious casserole!
- 1 cup milk: Provides moisture and richness. You can substitute with cream for a richer flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: A classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a kick!
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a subtle savory flavor.
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup chopped ham or bacon: For extra protein and flavor. Sausage crumbles are another great option!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to a flavorful dish!
- Optional additions: Consider adding diced tomatoes, spinach, mushrooms, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Egg Casserole
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small 8x8 inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe dish.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Stir in the cheese, onion, bell pepper, and ham (or your chosen meat). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown. Cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm!
Tips and Variations for Your Egg Casserole
- Overnight Prep: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time in the morning.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Veggie Power: Load up on your favorite vegetables for a healthier and more colorful casserole.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses to create unique flavor combinations.
- Bread Crumb Topping: For extra crunch, sprinkle bread crumbs over the top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your egg casserole with a side of toast, fresh fruit, or breakfast sausage for a complete and satisfying breakfast. It's also a great addition to a brunch buffet!
This recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adapted to your tastes. Don't be afraid to experiment and create your own signature egg casserole masterpiece! Enjoy!
