Cheese And Peppers Egg Casserole
A hearty baked egg casserole with melted cheeses, green chilies, and crispy bread, perfect for brunch or family gatherings craving comfort and bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Tear the French bread into chunks, aiming for about 10 cups.
- Arrange the bread chunks evenly in a greased, shallow 3-quart casserole or 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, and cubed cream cheese over the bread.
- Drain the can of chopped green chili peppers and sprinkle them over the cheese layer.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.
- Stir in the milk, dry mustard, and ground red pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and bread layers.
- Cover the casserole and chill for several hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole for 55 to 60 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can substitute the French bread with sourdough or whole grain for a different texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, leave out the green chili peppers or use roasted red peppers instead. Ensure to tear the bread into even chunks for consistent baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for balance. Pairing with a warm slice of crusty bread enhances the meal. For a complete spread, consider adding a side of 'Souper' Chuck Roast for a hearty feast or a light yogurt parfait for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Individual portions can also be reheated in the microwave for quicker serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Peppers Egg Casserole contains roughly 687 calories, with 17g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (103% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 759mg per serving (33% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is great for prepping ahead. Assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just remember to allow extra baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can replace the cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Both will maintain creaminess while adding a bit of protein to the dish.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Feel free to add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
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).