Brennan'S Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring bread, meat or seafood, and cheese, baked to perfection with savory seasonings, ideal for weekend brunch or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bread cubes in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the meat or shrimp on top of the bread cubes.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the meat or shrimp.
- Beat the eggs, half and half, salt, dry mustard, and onion salt together until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish.
- Refrigerate the casserole overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of sausage and diced ham or shrimp. You can also substitute the Longhorn style Cheddar with a sharp Cheddar or Gruyère for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use whole grain bread and reduced-fat half and half. This casserole can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a complete brunch spread, consider serving it alongside pastries or muffins, and offer a selection of juices or coffee. You can also serve it with a dollop of salsa or hot sauce for added flavor. Browse more American recipes for additional brunch ideas.
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 cover the entire casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Make sure to check the center to ensure it's fully warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brennan'S Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 483 calories, with 13g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (169% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to bake it in the morning—it's an easy way to serve a crowd without the morning rush.
What can I use instead of half and half?
If you don't have half and half on hand, you can substitute it with equal parts of milk and heavy cream. Alternatively, for a lighter option, use whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative, but keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly.
Can I freeze the breakfast casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake according to the original instructions. It may take a bit longer to cook if it's still cold from the fridge.
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).