Betty'S Breakfast Casserole
Betty's Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish perfect for brunch or family mornings. Combining bread, ham or sausage, eggs, and cheese, it offers warm, savory flavors. This make-ahead casserole is ideal for feeding a crowd and can be customized with your favorite breakfast meats and seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer bread cubes, grated Cheddar cheese, and cooked diced ham or sausage in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix together milk, eggs, salt, dry mustard, pepper, and minced onions.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor kick, consider adding diced bell peppers or spinach to the layers. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with unsweetened almond milk or use egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can also replace the Cheddar with Monterey Jack for a different taste. This dish is perfect for a Family Special gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad, such as Marinated Potato, Ham And Green Bean Salad, to balance the richness. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a light vinaigrette for extra zing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 848 calories, with 34g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (77% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1362mg per serving (59% 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it in the morning, so it's fresh and hot for breakfast.
What type of bread works best for this casserole?
Stale or day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Any type of bread, such as white, whole grain, or even croissants, can be used for unique textures and flavors.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the casserole. Just ensure they are cooked and drained well before layering.
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).