Aunt Blanche'S Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole layered with ham, cheese, mushrooms, and savory seasonings, perfect for family brunches or weekend gatherings. Fluffy, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter 8 slices of bread on one side and place buttered side down in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle ham, chopped onions, shredded Cheddar cheese, and mushrooms over the bread.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and Cajun seasoning over the ingredients and top with the remaining bread slices.
- Mix eggs with milk, salt, and dry mustard, then pour the mixture over the layered bread and ingredients.
- Cover the casserole with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Remove foil, sprinkle crushed cornflakes over the top, and drizzle melted butter over the cornflakes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the ham with cooked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile. If mushrooms aren't your favorite, try adding spinach or bell peppers. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste, and feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon. For a complete breakfast, consider serving it alongside Jonda'S Very Best Tomato Casserole or a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Blanche'S Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 678 calories, with 17g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1029mg per serving (45% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, preparing the casserole the night before is part of the recipe. After layering the ingredients, cover it with foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy breakfast option in the morning.
What can I substitute for the bread?
You can use a variety of bread types such as whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just ensure that whatever bread you choose is sturdy enough to hold the casserole ingredients without becoming too soggy.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. You can also increase the amount of cheese or add crumbled tofu for extra protein and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).