Continental Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole with crispy bacon, cheesy croutons, and a savory egg mixture, perfect for brunch gatherings and satisfying morning appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry or microwave 8 slices of bacon until crisp. Crumble and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In the bottom of a 2-quart greased glass casserole dish, place the croutons.
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese over the croutons.
- In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, prepared mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the croutons and cheese in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 35 to 45 minutes until the eggs are set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon for a lighter option. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or Gruyere for a different flavor profile. If croutons aren't available, stale bread cut into cubes works just as well. To enhance the dish, add cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Continental Casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or fruit platter. Consider serving it alongside a light yogurt parfait or a side of roasted tomatoes for a balanced meal. For those who enjoy heartier dishes, it complements American recipes like Hobo Hamburger Steaks very well.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 15-20 minutes, until heated through. For a quick option, microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Continental Casserole contains roughly 655 calories, with 17g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1874mg per serving (81% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use stale bread cut into cubes or even cooked rice for a different texture. Just ensure that the bread is slightly dry to absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the eggs are set, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should be slightly firm to the touch. If it's still jiggly, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
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).