Are you tired of chaotic mornings with no time for a proper breakfast? Dive into my delicious Overnight Breakfast Casserole recipe! This easy dish combines wholesome ingredients for a flavorful meal, perfect for families on-the-go. With just a bit of prep the night before, you’ll wake up to a warm, cheesy delight. Ready to learn how to make your mornings stress-free? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Overnight Breakfast Casserole
– 6 slices of whole-grain bread
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage (or veggie sausage)
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
To get started, gather these ingredients. The whole-grain bread forms a great base. It soaks up the egg mixture well. Eggs are the star of this dish. They provide protein and help bind everything. Milk adds creaminess and richness.
Cheddar cheese gives a nice flavor kick. You can use other cheeses too, like Monterey Jack or Swiss. The bell peppers add freshness and crunch. You can pick any color you like. If you want to make it spicy, add jalapeños.
Crumbled breakfast sausage (or veggie sausage) adds heartiness to the dish. Red onion gives a sweet and mild flavor. The garlic powder and oregano enhance the taste without overwhelming it.
Do not forget the salt and pepper. These basic seasonings are key to bringing out flavors. Finally, fresh parsley adds color and a pop of freshness on top.
For the full recipe, check the instructions to get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Egg Mixture
Start by cracking the eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add the milk, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it is smooth. This mixture is the heart of your casserole. It will soak into the bread and blend all the flavors.
Assembling the Casserole
Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with non-stick cooking spray. Layer the cubed whole-grain bread evenly across the bottom. In a separate bowl, mix the cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, and chopped red onion. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese to this mix. Scatter this sausage mixture over the bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak up the egg. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Baking the Casserole
Once your casserole is assembled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to meld. In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the casserole. Bake it for 45 to 50 minutes. Look for a golden top and a set center. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving. This dish is perfect for busy mornings or family gatherings.
For the full recipe, be sure to check out the detailed instructions to create this delicious dish.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Success
Letting the casserole rest overnight is key. This time allows all the flavors to blend well. The bread absorbs the egg mixture, creating a soft and tasty base. Cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap. This helps keep moisture in, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes. It should be golden brown on top. Make sure the center is firm to the touch. This step is crucial for the best texture.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
To serve, cut the casserole into squares. Place each square on individual plates. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve with a side of fresh fruit for a bright contrast. This makes your breakfast both pretty and delicious!
Variations
Vegetarian/Paleo/Keto Options
You can make this casserole fit many diets. For vegetarians, swap the sausage for veggie sausage. This keeps the taste while making it meat-free. If you follow a Paleo or Keto diet, you can change the cheese. Use a nut-based cheese or skip it entirely. These simple swaps let everyone enjoy this dish.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to add a twist? Try different herbs or spices. Fresh basil, thyme, or even a pinch of cayenne can boost flavor. You can also mix in veggies like spinach or mushrooms. These changes make the casserole unique and exciting. Each time you make it, you can create a new dish.
Alternative Breads
The type of bread can change the whole recipe. Instead of whole-grain bread, try sourdough for a tangy taste. If you need gluten-free, use gluten-free bread. Each choice brings a new texture and flavor. Experiment with what you have on hand. You might find a new favorite!
For the complete recipe, refer to the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store your leftover Overnight Breakfast Casserole, let it cool first. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the fridge. It stays fresh for about three days. When ready to eat, check for any signs of spoilage. If it looks good, you can reheat it.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the casserole into individual portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out the air to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to label the bags with the date!
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat your casserole, take it out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. If you want a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 10 minutes. Enjoy your meal!
FAQs
How do you make Overnight Breakfast Casserole?
To make Overnight Breakfast Casserole, follow these steps:
1. Whisk eggs, milk, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper together.
2. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
3. Layer cubed whole-grain bread in the dish.
4. Mix cooked sausage, bell peppers, onion, and half the cheese in a bowl.
5. Scatter the sausage mix on top of the bread.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and filling.
7. Press down gently with a spatula.
8. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), bake for 45-50 minutes, and enjoy!
This simple process lets the flavors blend while you sleep.
Can I prep this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prep this casserole in advance. Preparing it the night before saves time and stress in the morning. You can wake up to a delicious breakfast ready to bake. This method also helps the bread soak up the egg mixture well, making it taste even better. The flavors mix and grow richer when left overnight.
What can I serve with Overnight Breakfast Casserole?
You can serve many tasty sides with this casserole. Fresh fruit adds color and sweetness. A light salad can bring a crisp contrast. You could also serve yogurt or a smoothie for a refreshing drink. Coffee or tea pairs well too. These simple sides will round out your meal nicely. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions earlier.
This overnight breakfast casserole combines simple ingredients for a delicious meal. You layer bread, eggs, cheese, and your choice of sausage or veggies. Let it rest overnight to deepen the flavor. Bake it in the morning for a golden finish.
Feel free to customize with herbs or different breads. Store leftovers well in the fridge or freezer. Reheat to enjoy another tasty meal. This dish makes mornings easy and enjoyable. Cooking has never been simpler or more rewarding!
