Cheese Brunch Casserole
A savory brunch casserole layered with crispy bacon, cheeses, and crunchy croutons, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch gathering with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bacon between layers of paper towels in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Cook the bacon on full power for 4 1/2 minutes until crisp.
- Crumble the bacon and set aside.
- Place cheese croutons in the same baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the croutons.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add milk, prepared mustard, onion powder, and pepper to the eggs and mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croutons and cheese in the baking dish.
- Cook at 50% power for 8 minutes.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the casserole.
- Cook at 50% power for an additional 12 minutes.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the egg mixture. If you don't have cheese croutons, you can use day-old bread cubed and tossed with melted butter and seasonings. For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. This casserole is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Brunch Casserole is perfect for a leisurely brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh Wilted Greens Salad for a balanced meal. For a complete spread, consider serving it alongside Aunt Genny's Baked Beans or fresh fruit. It's an excellent centerpiece for gatherings or family breakfasts, offering a comforting blend of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Brunch Casserole contains roughly 800 calories, with 43g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (92% of the Daily Value), protein (85% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1226mg per serving (53% 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, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the ingredients, cover with plastic wrap, and bake the next morning. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead of bacon. For a different flavor, turkey bacon or sausage can also work well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using alternatives that require less cooking.
Can I use different kinds of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your preference. Gouda, fontina, or even feta can add unique flavors to the casserole. Just make sure to maintain the total cheese quantity for the best 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).