Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese

Name: Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 4 cups bread cubes (day-old is preferred); 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 cup diced cooked ham or bacon (optional); 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Highlighted under: Easy Kitchen Magic

I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings, but what really sets it apart is how the flavors meld together as it bakes. The combination of fluffy eggs, rich cheese, and savory ingredients creates a comforting dish that fills me up and keeps me satisfied throughout the day. It's amazing how something so simple can bring so much joy to the breakfast table.

Created by

Ottilie James

Last updated on 2026-02-15T01:17:36.273Z

I remember the first time I made this Breakfast Casserole; it was a chilly Sunday morning, and I wanted something warm and satisfying. I combined some old bread, eggs, and cheese, but I added a twist by including fresh herbs from my garden. The result was a flavorful dish that impressed my family. Over the years, I've tweaked the recipe, but those fresh herbs always add a delightful aroma and taste. It's become a favorite during family gatherings!

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients like vegetables or meats. I find that prepping the night before is a game changer, allowing me to simply pop it in the oven in the morning. This method saves time and ensures a freshly baked breakfast without the morning rush. Enjoying a slice fresh from the oven with a drizzle of hot sauce makes my morning complete.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients that fuel your day
Customizable with your favorite vegetables or meats
Perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings

Understanding the Base Ingredients

The foundation of this Breakfast Casserole is, of course, the eggs and milk mixture, which provides both the rich texture and binding element. It's essential to whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly until they are completely blended; this will help create a uniform custard that envelops the bread. Using fresh, high-quality eggs makes a noticeable difference in flavor—a tip I always recommend when preparing any egg-based dish.

Bread choice is equally important. Day-old bread is preferable because it has dried out a bit, allowing it to absorb the egg mixture better without becoming mushy. You can experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough, whole grain, or even croissants for a unique twist. The key is to cut the bread into uniform cubes; this ensures even soaking and cooking throughout.

Adding Flavorful Extras

Vegetables play a crucial role in enhancing the flavor profile of this casserole. Chopped bell peppers and green onions add both sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the cheese and eggs. Consider other colorful vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and visual appeal. Just ensure that any additional vegetables are pre-cooked to reduce moisture content before mixing them in, preventing a soggy casserole.

If you're including meats like ham or bacon, it's vital to use pre-cooked options. This not only saves time but also ensures that they're safe to eat and properly incorporated into the dish. You can swap them for turkey bacon or even a vegetarian option like crumbled tofu for a lighter or plant-based version; just adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious breakfast casserole.

Ingredients

6 large eggs
2 cups milk
4 cups bread cubes (day-old is preferred)
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 cup diced cooked ham or bacon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped green onions
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried parsley

Make sure to mix well so that the flavors blend together beautifully.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Breakfast Casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Add the bread cubes, cheese, cooked ham or bacon (if using), bell pepper, green onions, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Press down gently to ensure the bread is submerged in the egg mixture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm!

This casserole is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but it also tastes great reheated!

Pro Tips

Experiment with herbs and spices to personalize this casserole to your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick!

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole shines as a make-ahead breakfast. You can assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the first bite even more satisfying in the morning. If you take this route, you may need to increase baking time by 5 to 10 minutes as it will be going into the oven chilled.

Another great option is to freeze portions of the casserole. Once cooled, cut it into individual servings, wrap them tightly in foil or freezer bags, and store them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through, making a quick breakfast option for busy days.

Serving Suggestions

This Breakfast Casserole is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some sliced avocado for a more balanced meal. For a touch of brightness, serve with a dollop of salsa or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top. These additions can elevate the flavor and presentation, making breakfast feel special.

I often enjoy it alongside fresh fruit or smoothies to make it a complete breakfast. The sweetness of fruit complements the savory elements of the casserole and adds a refreshing contrast. Plus, adding variety ensures you won't tire of this delicious dish even after multiple servings throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli. Sausage or turkey can also be great additions.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let it cool, slice it into portions, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

→ How do I reheat it?

You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or bake it in a 350°F oven until warmed through.