Brunch Egg Bake
A hearty and cheesy brunch casserole featuring bread, cheddar, and bacon, baked to perfection with a custard of eggs and milk. This dish is ideal for weekend gatherings or family brunches, offering warm, comforting flavors that satisfy a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cubed bread into a greased 9x13 inch pan.
- Top the bread with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- In a bowl, beat eggs, milk, mustard, and onion powder until well combined.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese in the pan.
- Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-35 minutes.
- Cover the casserole with crumbled bacon and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the egg mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-cubed bread or even leftover bread from previous meals. You can substitute half-and-half for a creamier texture or use a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter version. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add herbs to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Brunch Egg Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of Green String Beans for a balanced meal. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for an extra kick. It’s ideal for brunch gatherings, and leftovers can easily be enjoyed for breakfast or lunch throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish can also be frozen before baking; just cover tightly and freeze, then bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Egg Bake contains roughly 1122 calories, with 38g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1396mg per serving (61% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Brunch Egg Bake the night before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
You can easily substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of your favorites. Each cheese will offer a unique flavor profile, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You could also add plant-based sausage or extra cheese for additional flavor 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).