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Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Overnight Breakfast Casserole
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This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a convenient, hearty, and versatile make-ahead breakfast combining eggs, bread, cheese, meat, and vegetables. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, it offers a stress-free, delicious meal perfect for busy weekdays, lazy weekends, or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Egg Custard

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk or cream (preferably full-fat)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

Bread

  • 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (French baguette, sourdough, or gluten-free bread)

Protein

  • 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled

Vegetables

  • 1 cup chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms (pre-cooked to avoid sogginess)

Cheese

  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar mixed with mozzarella recommended)

Optional Seasonings/Variations

  • Jalapeños or smoked paprika for spice
  • Plant-based milk/cheese for dairy-free
  • Cinnamon, fruit, and maple syrup for a sweet version

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread and Protein: Cube the day-old bread and spread it evenly in a greased baking dish. Ensure the meat, whether sausage or bacon, is fully cooked, then scatter it evenly over the bread cubes for balanced flavor.
  2. Mix the Egg Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth. This custard mixture will soak into the bread and bring the casserole together.
  3. Assemble with Cheese and Veggies: Layer the pre-cooked vegetables and shredded cheese evenly over the bread and meat in the dish, ensuring every bite includes a good mix of flavors and textures.
  4. Combine and Refrigerate Overnight: Gently pour the egg custard mixture over the assembled ingredients, pressing lightly so the bread absorbs the liquid thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and the bread to soften.
  5. Bake in the Morning: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the casserole for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown and set in the center. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread to better absorb custard and prevent sogginess.
  • Cover casserole overnight to help flavors meld and bread soak properly.
  • Full-fat dairy yields richer, creamier texture.
  • Combine cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for gooey indulgence.
  • Pre-cook vegetables to avoid excess moisture and sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, baked breakfast, easy casserole, breakfast meal prep, one dish breakfast

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/overnight-breakfast-casserole/