Sonora Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole layered with ham, cheeses, green chilies, and crispy cornflakes, perfect for brunch gatherings and satisfying morning appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch pan with cooking spray (Pam).
- Line the bottom with 6 slices of French bread.
- Top the bread with cubed ham, shredded Swiss and Cheddar cheeses, chopped green chilies, and season with salt, pepper, and dry mustard.
- Beat eggs in a bowl; add milk and mix well.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered bread and toppings in the pan.
- Saute crushed cornflakes in butter until lightly toasted.
- Sprinkle the toasted cornflakes over the casserole.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the egg mixture. You can also swap the ham for cooked sausage or turkey bacon for a variation. If you prefer a little heat, add some jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss. Always toast the cornflakes lightly to enhance their flavor before sprinkling them on the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a dollop of salsa or guacamole on top for added flavor. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light green salad or some crispy hash browns.
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 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sonora Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 814 calories, with 36g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (83% of the Daily Value), protein (72% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1965mg per serving (85% 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 the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the cornflakes right before baking to keep them crispy. This makes it a great option for busy mornings or brunch parties.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
French bread is ideal for its texture and ability to soak up the egg mixture, but you can also use other types like challah or sourdough. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale to prevent it from becoming too soggy during baking.
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).