Easy, Cheesy Brunch Casserole
A hearty, cheesy brunch casserole combining bread, ham, and vegetables with a flavorful egg and milk mixture, perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons margarine ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped ham or 1 pound sausage ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon flour ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups milk ⓘ
- 4 large eggs, beaten ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Place the bread slices in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Saute chopped onion and sliced mushrooms in margarine until tender, then pour over the bread.
- Mix the chopped ham or sausage with shredded Cheddar and Swiss cheeses and sprinkle on top of the meat mixture.
- Combine the remaining ingredients: eggs, milk, mustard, garlic salt, and flour; pour over the layered ingredients.
- Cover the casserole and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes or until set.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a crusty artisan bread instead of plain sandwich bread. You can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or turkey for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. To enhance the cheesy flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan or your favorite cheese blend on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a fresh green salad or sliced tomatoes for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of fruit for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a warm batch of Anchorage Opera Baked Beans for a comforting brunch spread. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family breakfast.
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 about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes for a crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy, Cheesy Brunch Casserole contains roughly 921 calories, with 19g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (40% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 669mg per serving (29% 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?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. After preparing it, simply cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can bake it the next morning, making it a convenient option for brunch or special occasions.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Cut the casserole into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
What can I substitute for the cheeses?
You can use any combination of your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack or Gouda work well as alternatives to Cheddar and Swiss. For a tangy twist, try using feta or goat cheese. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor profile slightly.
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).