St. Anne'S Brunch Casserole
A hearty brunch casserole combining bread, cheese, ham, and mushrooms, baked to perfection. Ideal for family gatherings or weekend brunch, offering comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Refrigerate the casserole overnight for baking the next morning.
- Use a 9 x 13 inch pan and butter the bottom.
- In a bowl, mix eggs with milk, salt, dry mustard, and pepper until well blended.
- Set aside the egg mixture.
- Place bread cubes in the bottom of the pan, covering the entire surface.
- Layer shredded cheese, shaved ham, and sliced mushrooms (if using) over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and toppings.
- Top with flavored croutons and dot with small pieces of butter.
- Refrigerate the casserole covered overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding sautéed peppers or spinach to the casserole. If you want a lighter option, swap half of the milk for unsweetened almond milk. You can also use any leftover bread, even stale, to avoid waste. For a richer flavor, try using Gruyère cheese instead of Cheddar. This dish is similar to the Husband's Casserole, which combines bread and eggs for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This brunch casserole is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad. For a complete meal, serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links. Pair it with a mimosa or a refreshing iced coffee for a delightful brunch experience, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover 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 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of St. Anne'S Brunch Casserole contains roughly 269 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (52% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 casserole in advance?
Yes, this casserole is ideal for preparing a day ahead. Just assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick breakfast option on busy mornings.
What can I substitute for the ham?
If you prefer not to use ham, you can substitute it with cooked bacon, sausage, or even skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. Adding more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers can enhance the dish without compromising flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. It should be firm to the touch. If it's still jiggly in the center, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently.
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).