Night Before Egg Casserole
A hearty overnight casserole combining seasoned croutons, melted cheese, and savory ham or bacon, baked to perfection for a comforting breakfast or brunch. Its savory flavors and easy make-ahead preparation make it ideal for family gatherings or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use cooking spray to coat a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Pour the seasoned croutons into the dish to cover the bottom.
- Layer half of the shredded cheese and chopped meat over the croutons.
- In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, dried mustard, cream of mushroom soup, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the liquid mixture evenly over the contents of the dish.
- Spread the remaining cheese over the top.
- Cover and let stand in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Remove plastic wrap or foil from the dish.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a different protein, turkey sausage or smoked salmon can be great alternatives. Keep in mind that using fresh bread in place of croutons will yield a different texture, but can still work well.
Serving Suggestions
This Egg Casserole is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted potatoes. Consider serving it alongside a light salad, like Debbie's Salad, for a well-rounded meal. A drizzle of hot sauce can also enhance the flavors. It’s great for feeding a crowd or for meal prep throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Night Before Egg Casserole contains roughly 838 calories, with 23g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (49% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1861mg 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, this casserole is designed to be made the night before. Prepare it as directed, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when baked the next day.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce or use a can of cream of chicken soup instead. For a vegetarian version, consider using a can of cream of celery soup or a vegetable-based cream soup to maintain the dish’s creaminess.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it as instructed, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven if baking from a cold state.
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).