Baked egg casseroles are a staple in many households due to their simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness. This dish can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Originating from traditional American cuisine, baked egg casseroles have become a favorite comfort food, often enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or sausage (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for added freshness)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (for an earthy taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (for a herby note)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the bread by cutting it into small cubes. If the bread is too fresh, lightly toast it in the oven for 5 minutes to firm it up.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the egg mixture and whisk again to incorporate the seasonings.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell peppers, onions, and optional ingredients (ham, sausage, tomatoes, mushrooms, etc.).
- Fold in the bread cubes gently, ensuring they are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
Assembling the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with additional cheese if desired, and sprinkle with dried oregano for extra flavor.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- For a fluffier casserole, beat the eggs more vigorously to incorporate more air.
- If using bacon, cook it separately until crispy before adding it to the casserole mixture.
- To make the casserole ahead, assemble it the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Bake it the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the bread with cauliflower florets or omit it entirely.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g
Conclusion
This baked egg casserole is a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast, a potluck brunch, or a simple dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize it to your liking and share your variations with us. Don’t forget to leave a comment below, share the recipe on social media, and subscribe to easycrispyrecipes.com for more delicious recipes.