Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole

Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a single dish could satisfy breakfast lovers, brunch enthusiasts, and the entire family any time of day? The answer lies in a delightful Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole. This recipe not only combines the classic flavors of savory bacon, creamy eggs, and melted cheese but also caters to those busy mornings when a hearty meal is needed in less time. Let’s explore why this casserole is gaining popularity, with 70% of families preferring a convenient yet delicious breakfast option over traditional preparations.

Ingredients List

To create the ultimate Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 large eggs – Farm-fresh eggs provide the best flavor.
• 1 cup milk – Whole or 2% for creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• 8 slices of bacon – Cooked and crumbled; turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative works too.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar gives this dish a sharp flavor, but mozzarella can offer a milder taste.
• 4 cups diced bread – Stale bread or croissants add texture; gluten-free bread is an excellent substitute.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust based on your taste preference and bacon saltiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra kick.

Timing

Preparation for the Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole takes about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 40-45 minutes, totaling around 65-65 minutes. This is impressive when you consider that many traditional breakfast dishes often take over an hour to prepare and serve.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Once done, drain them on paper towels, crumbling them as you go. Tip: Reserve some bacon drippings to sauté vegetables if desired, adding depth to the casserole.

Step 3: Prepare Bread Base

While the bacon is cooking, dice your bread into bite-sized chunks. Place the bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it’s spread evenly on the bottom.

Step 4: Whisk Eggs and Milk

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until fully blended. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect fluffy texture.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the crumbled bacon and cheese to the egg mixture, stirring gently. Pour this mixture over the diced bread in the baking dish. Make sure all bread pieces are soaked in the egg mix.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes covered; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving of this Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole (one-sixth of the dish) contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g

This casserole provides a well-rounded meal, perfect for fueling your morning.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Use egg whites instead of whole eggs for a lower-calorie option.
• Opt for reduced-fat cheese to minimize saturated fats.
• Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost fiber and nutrients without compromising flavor. This caters to vegetarian and health-conscious individuals alike.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a side of avocado toast for added texture. You can even serve individual portions with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for the spice lovers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Greasing the Pan: Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Overmixing Eggs: Too much mixing can make the eggs rubbery; whisk just until combined.
3. Not Using Stale Bread: Fresh bread can become soggy; stale or toasted bread provides better structure.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Cool any leftovers completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, freeze individual portions. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

The Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole stands out as a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that can fit any meal plan. With a little creativity and awareness of nutrition, you can adapt this recipe to match various dietary preferences without losing its delightful essence. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and share your feedback or any modifications that worked for you!

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

2. Is it okay to use other types of cheese?
Definitely! Variations like feta, pepper jack, or a blend can provide different flavors and textures.

3. What can I use instead of bacon?
Consider using diced ham, sausage, or even tempeh for a vegetarian option.

By incorporating these tips and suggestions, you’re now equipped to create a delicious and fulfilling Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole that can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!

Bacon Egg and Cheese Casserole

A delightful casserole combining savory bacon, creamy eggs, and melted cheese, perfect for busy mornings and family breakfasts.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 12 large large eggs Farm-fresh eggs provide the best flavor.
• 1 cup milk Whole or 2% for creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
• 8 slices bacon Cooked and crumbled; turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative works too.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Cheddar gives this dish a sharp flavor, but mozzarella can offer a milder taste.
• 4 cups diced bread Stale bread or croissants add texture; gluten-free bread is an excellent substitute.
• 1 teaspoon salt Adjust based on your taste preference and bacon saltiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder For an extra kick.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Drain on paper towels, crumbling them as you go. Reserve some bacon drippings if desired.
• Dice the bread into bite-sized chunks and place it in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until fully blended.
• Add the crumbled bacon and cheese to the egg mixture, stirring gently. Pour this over the diced bread in the baking dish.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.

Notes

Use egg whites for a lower-calorie option and consider adding vegetables for extra nutrients. Serve hot with fresh herbs or as individual portions with salsa for added flavor.

Keyword Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole, Breakfast Casserole, easy breakfast, Family Meal, Hearty Breakfast

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest