Complete Breakfast Casserole
A hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole layered with bread, ham, and cheeses, baked to perfection—ideal for weekend brunch or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crust from bread slices and place them in a casserole dish.
- Layer slices of American and Swiss cheese over the bread.
- Add bite-size pieces of ham on top of the cheese.
- In a blender, mix eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread, cheese, and ham.
- Refrigerate the casserole overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from refrigerator about 2 hours before baking.
- Sprinkle cornflake crumbs over the casserole and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the ham layer. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked ham or substitute with cooked sausage or bacon. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist. Ensure the casserole is well covered while refrigerating to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of Diane'S Bacon Gravy for added richness. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside crispy breakfast potatoes or a refreshing smoothie. It's also great for meal prep, making it a convenient option for busy mornings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but the oven method will help maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Complete Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 226 calories, with 6g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 602mg per serving (26% 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 refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to sprinkle the cornflake crumbs and melted butter on top just before baking to keep them crisp.
Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, you can use whole grain, sourdough, or even croissants for added flavor and texture. Just be sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the ham and adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You might also consider adding extra cheese or plant-based cheese to enhance the flavor.
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).