Overnight Egg Bake
A savory overnight egg bake layered with cheese, ham, and bread, topped with crunchy corn flakes—perfect for brunch or a hearty breakfast gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 8 slices of bread on the bottom of a greased 9 x 13-inch pan. Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese and diced ham.
- Cover with the remaining bread slices. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Before baking, top the casserole with crushed corn flakes and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (163°C) for 1 1/2 hours.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or replacing some milk with half-and-half. You can swap the ham for cooked bacon or turkey for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be added instead. For a twist, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
This Overnight Egg Bake is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a Classic Cobb Salad for a fresh, balanced meal. Serve with fresh fruit or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete spread. For a fun variation, consider serving Individual Egglets alongside to offer guests different egg options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Egg Bake contains roughly 1173 calories, with 15g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1491mg per serving (65% 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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this Overnight Egg Bake is designed to be prepared the night before. Simply assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a flavorful and moist dish come morning.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even feta for a tangy twist. Each cheese will impart its own unique flavor to the dish.
What can I do if I don't have corn flakes?
If you don't have corn flakes, you can substitute with crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even panko for a crunchy topping. Each option will provide a different texture, but they'll all work well to add that desirable crunch 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).