Simplified Egg Casserole
A hearty and cheesy egg casserole with bread and melty cheese, perfect for breakfast or brunch, easy to prepare and ideal for feeding a family or group.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cut or tear the bread into 1-inch pieces.
- Mix the bread and cheese together.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with milk and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese mixture.
- Optional: Dot with butter on top.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until the center is no longer soggy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also substitute the Cheddar and Jack cheese with your favorite cheese varieties, such as feta or mozzarella. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture. This casserole can also be customized with spices, like a pinch of paprika or garlic powder, to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this egg casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete meal. For a heartier breakfast, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or sausage. This dish is also great for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover egg casserole can be stored 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 warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot. Be sure to cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simplified Egg Casserole contains roughly 348 calories, with 7g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value), calcium (17% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 500mg per serving (22% 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 dish is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply bake it in the morning when you're ready to serve. If you prefer, you can also freeze it before baking and thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Can I use whole grain bread instead of white bread?
Absolutely! Whole grain bread is a great substitute and adds more fiber and nutrients to the casserole. It may change the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious. Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or rye, for unique flavors.
What can I add to make this casserole more filling?
To make the casserole more filling, consider adding cooked meats like diced ham, crumbled sausage, or cooked bacon. You can also incorporate cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or broccoli. For a vegetarian option, try adding black beans or lentils for extra protein. This flexibility makes it a great choice for tailored meals.
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).