Cracker-Crusted Baked Egg Casserole: A Simple & Delicious Breakfast Idea
Are you looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch recipe that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This cracker-crusted baked egg casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions. It's packed with flavor, customizable to your liking, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks!
Why This Recipe Works
This baked egg casserole stands out because of its unique cracker crust. It adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy, eggy interior beautifully. The recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can easily adapt it to include your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and meats. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftover crackers!
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 cup crushed crackers (saltines or Ritz recommended) – This provides the amazing crust!
- 2 tablespoons melted butter – For a golden-brown, flaky crust
- 8 large eggs – The heart of the casserole!
- 1 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness) – Adds creaminess and helps set the eggs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – A classic choice, but feel free to experiment!
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions – Adds freshness and flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A touch of spice
- Optional additions: diced ham, bacon, sausage, bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, etc. – Customize it to your taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine the crushed crackers and melted butter in a bowl. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. This forms the base of your delicious casserole.
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Whisk the egg mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cheddar cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper until well combined. If adding any optional ingredients, stir them in now.
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Assemble and bake: Pour the egg mixture over the cracker crust in the baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and lightly golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
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Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm!
Tips for Success
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry casserole. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes to avoid this.
- Experiment with flavors: Get creative with your add-ins! Sausage, bacon, spinach, and different cheeses all make excellent additions.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, making it perfect for busy week days. Just store it covered in the refrigerator overnight.
- Serve it up: This baked egg casserole is wonderful on its own, or alongside some fresh fruit and toast for a complete breakfast.
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