Egg Crouton Casserole
A hearty baked casserole featuring crispy croutons, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a savory egg mixture, perfect for brunch or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 10 x 6 x 1 3/4-inch baking dish.
- Place the bread croutons on the bottom of the dish.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese over the croutons, reserving a little for topping.
- Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the cheese.
- In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, mustard, onion powder, and pepper, then beat slightly.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Top with the reserved cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 325°F oven for 60 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using whole grain or sourdough croutons instead of plain bread croutons for added flavor. You can substitute the Cheddar with Gruyère or a dairy-free cheese for a different profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon works well, or you can replace it with cooked sausage for variety. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Egg Crouton Casserole makes a hearty brunch dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or sliced tomatoes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of fruit. It also complements dishes like Buttermilk Gravy, making it a versatile option for any breakfast or brunch gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 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 Egg Crouton Casserole contains roughly 383 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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. Just assemble it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of milk?
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. You can also use a combination of yogurt and water to achieve a similar consistency, which will still provide creaminess to the dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the center is set and does not jiggle. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready. It should be slightly golden and puffed on top.
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).