There's something magical about a breakfast that you can prepare the night before and wake up to a warm, delicious meal. That's the charm of an Egg Casserole, a dish that's not only easy to make but also versatile enough to cater to all your breakfast whims. Whether you're hosting a brunch or need a simple, nutritious meal for your family, this Egg Casserole recipe will be your go-to. Let’s delve into how you can make this delightful dish!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk (you can opt for whole, skim, or plant-based alternatives)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or your favorite blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups of cubed bread (preferably day-old, from French or Italian loaf)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, crumbled and cooked
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Optional: veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Sauté Vegetables
- In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and any other vegetables you choose to include. Sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked sausage, mix well, and remove from heat.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheese and the cooked sausage-vegetable mixture.
4. Layer and Bake
- Spread half of the bread cubes on the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Pour half of the egg mixture over the bread.
- Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and egg mixture.
- Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
5. Rest and Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it to firm up, making it easier to serve.
- Serve with your favorite sides or toppings like salsa, avocado, or hot sauce.
✨ Note: If you're assembling this dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking in the morning.
Customization Ideas
Egg casseroles are incredibly flexible, allowing for numerous customizations:
- Meat Variations: Swap sausage with bacon, ham, or go vegetarian with seasoned tofu.
- Vegetables: Add your favorite veggies like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or kale.
- Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like feta, gouda, or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 70 calories each |
| Milk (1 cup) | 122 calories |
| Bread (2 cups) | 200 calories |
| Sausage (1 pound) | 1200 calories |
| Cheese (1 cup) | 428 calories |
| Vegetables | Varies |
Remember, this table gives an approximate value, and actual caloric content might differ based on your specific ingredients and quantities.
Tips for Perfect Egg Casserole
- Soaking Bread: Day-old bread works best as it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
- Season Well: Season at every stage to ensure flavors are well distributed.
- Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving enhances its texture and makes it easier to cut.
This Egg Casserole recipe offers a hearty, satisfying, and versatile breakfast option that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether you're enjoying a lazy Sunday brunch or prepping for a busy week, this dish promises ease, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. With its flexible ingredients, you can adapt it to any dietary preference, making it a favorite in many households. Start your day with this comforting, savory dish, and enjoy the simplicity of a meal that caters to everyone's tastes and needs.
Can I make this Egg Casserole vegetarian?
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Absolutely! Skip the sausage and increase the amount of vegetables or add seasoned tofu for a protein-rich alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can this casserole be frozen?
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Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Prepare the casserole as directed, but do not bake. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and foil, label, and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process, until fully cooked.
What’s the best bread to use?
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Sturdy, day-old bread like French or Italian loaf works best. It absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too mushy. Avoid using very fresh bread as it might turn the casserole too soft.
