Baked Breakfast
A hearty baked breakfast casserole combining savory sausage or bacon with cheesy, egg-soaked bread. Perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for weekend mornings, this dish offers comforting flavors with a crispy top and tender interior, making it an ideal brunch centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the sausage or fry the bacon and crumble. Drain excess fat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add the milk, salt, and dry mustard to the eggs and mix well.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
- Fold in the grated Cheddar cheese and cooked meat.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 2-inch glass baking dish.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or including chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions in your mixture. If you're short on time, you can use leftover cooked meat instead of crumbled sausage or bacon. Substitute the Cheddar cheese with your favorite variety, such as Gouda or Monterey Jack, for a different taste. This dish is similar to Facelift Casserole, making it perfect for brunch.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Breakfast pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a warm beverage like coffee or tea. For a heartier breakfast, add some crispy hash browns or a side of yogurt. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick breakfast fix.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Breakfast contains roughly 809 calories, with 26g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2170mg per serving (94% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this Baked Breakfast is best prepared the night before. After combining the ingredients, refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, consider using a commercial egg replacer or a mix of 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and 1 tablespoon of baking powder for each egg. However, this may alter the texture slightly, so be prepared for a different result.
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).