This Bacon Breakfast Casserole is a hearty mix of eggs, crispy bacon, and cheese baked together. It’s perfect for lazy mornings or brunch with friends!
I love how you can prepare it the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy the amazing smell filling your kitchen! Yum! 🥓🍳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This is the star of the show! I suggest using thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, or you can skip it entirely for a vegetarian version!
Eggs: Six large eggs provide a great base for the casserole. If you want a lighter dish, you can substitute some of the eggs with egg whites or a liquid egg product. This will still hold the casserole together well.
Cheddar Cheese: I love the sharpness of cheddar in this dish. For a twist, try using Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little heat. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
Day-Old Bread: If you don’t have bread that’s a day old, you can use fresh bread, just toast it slightly to remove excess moisture. You can also use whole grain or a gluten-free bread for different dietary preferences.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Casserole?
Getting the right texture is key! Allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture is crucial. This step helps the bread absorb the flavors and prevents dryness.
- Mix the bread in the egg mixture and let it soak for at least 5 minutes.
- If you like a creamier texture, consider adding an extra splash of milk.
- Baking uncovered allows the top to crisp up nicely while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
Trust me, this technique makes a world of difference!
Bacon Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 slices bacon
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup milk
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed (preferably white or sourdough)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by 40-45 minutes of baking time. After baking, allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a fantastic breakfast dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to help with easy removing later.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, take the bacon out and place it on some paper towels to drain off excess grease. Let it cool for a minute before crumbling it into small pieces.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and whisk them together with the milk, salt, black pepper, and baking powder until everything is smooth and well combined.
4. Soak the Bread:
Add your cubed bread to the egg mixture and stir it gently to make sure all the bread pieces are coated. Let it soak for about 5 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
5. Combine Everything:
Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon into the soaked bread mix. Remember to save some of the cheese and bacon for the topping!
6. Spread in the Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly for uniform baking.
7. Add Toppings:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and add the rest of the crumbled bacon for that crunchy, delicious finish.
8. Bake It Up:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the middle.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This helps it firm up a bit. Cut it into squares and serve warm!
10. Enjoy with a Garnish:
If you like, garnish with fresh parsley on top for a colorful touch. Enjoy your hearty breakfast casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just cook it until it’s crispy, similar to regular bacon, before adding it to the casserole.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole the night before and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge, and bake it in the morning. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature, adding a splash of milk if needed for moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Milk?
If you’re out of milk or prefer a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk as a substitute. Each of these options will still give you a delicious result!
