This Bacon Breakfast Casserole is a hearty treat that combines eggs, crispy bacon, and cheese, all baked together to perfection. It’s perfect for breakfast or brunch with family!
I love how easy it is to make—just mix the ingredients, pour into a dish, and bake. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel happy before you even take a bite! 🍳🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. You can try turkey bacon or even sausage for a different taste. For a vegetarian option, use smoked tempeh or mushrooms, which can provide a savory depth.
Eggs: Eggs are the base of the casserole. If you’re looking for an egg-free version, try silken tofu blended with a bit of nutritional yeast for a similar texture. However, you may lose some richness.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier texture, but you can use skim milk or a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that non-dairy milks might alter the flavor slightly.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for this recipe, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack can be fun alternatives. For dairy-free, look for vegan cheese that melts well.
Bread: Day-old bread is ideal. If you’re gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free bread or even hash browns for a unique twist.
How Do I Ensure a Perfectly Baked Casserole?
Baking the casserole correctly is important to achieve that fluffy and well-cooked texture. Here are some handy tips:
- Make sure to whisk your egg mixture until fully combined for even baking.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before pouring it into the dish. This helps the bread soak up the flavors.
- Keep an eye on it in the oven! If the top is getting too brown before it’s set, cover it loosely with foil.
- Checking for doneness: The casserole should be puffed and a toothpick should come out clean from the center.
Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes helps it set, making slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Make a Delicious Bacon Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 10 slices of bacon
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old white or whole wheat bread)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Bacon Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 45-55 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to have a warm, delicious dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent sticking!
2. Cooking the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the slices of bacon until they’re crispy. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Once they’re done, place them on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cool, chop them into small pieces.
3. Mixing the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and if you’re using them, the garlic and onion powder. Make sure everything is well combined—this will create a nice base for your casserole!
4. Soaking the Bread:
Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture and gently stir to coat all the bread. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes so the bread can soak up the delicious flavors.
5. Adding Cheese and Bacon:
Now fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the chopped bacon into your mixture. This will give your casserole that cheesy, bacon goodness all through it!
6. Layering in the Baking Dish:
Pour half of the soaked bread mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. If you want to get a little fancy, you can layer some additional creamy cheese or cream cheese here. Just dollop on spoonfuls if you choose to add cream cheese.
7. Completing the Layers:
Add the remaining pieces of bacon on top of the bread layer, followed by pouring the rest of the bread mixture over everything. Be sure to spread it out evenly so every bite is evenly cooked!
8. Topping it Off:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped bacon on top to create a crispy, delicious finish when baked!
9. Baking to Perfection:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes. It should be puffed, set, and golden on top when it’s ready.
10. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s done, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing it into squares. This helps it set up a little more and makes serving easier.
11. Final Touch:
If desired, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy your cheesy Bacon Breakfast Casserole with your family and friends. It’s sure to be a hit! 🍽️
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Just cook it until it’s crispy just like you would with regular bacon for the best results.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Simply assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to boost the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them first to remove excess moisture before mixing them in with the bread and egg mixture.