Brunch Goodie
A savory brunch casserole with crispy bacon, cheesy croutons, and fresh green peppers, perfect for weekend gatherings or special brunch occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 10 x 6-inch dish.
- Combine 1 cup plain croutons and 1 cup onion garlic croutons in the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the croutons.
- In a bowl, beat eggs slightly and mix with milk, salt, pepper, and diced green pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croutons in the dish.
- Fry bacon until crisp, then crumble and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Refrigerate overnight to set flavors.
- Bake uncovered for 55 to 60 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip the overnight refrigeration, but letting it sit helps the flavors meld beautifully. Make sure to use fresh croutons for the best texture, and feel free to add sautéed onions or mushrooms for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Brunch Goodie warm from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread. You could also serve it alongside American recipes like Potato Skin Appetizers for a delightful brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This casserole also reheats well in the microwave, though the texture may slightly differ.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brunch Goodie contains roughly 529 calories, with 13g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 931mg per serving (40% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble everything in the dish, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for a quick bake in the morning.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a meatless option, consider using cooked and crumbled tempeh or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. You could also use turkey bacon for a healthier alternative.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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).