Twenty-Four Hour Breakfast Casserole
A hearty overnight breakfast casserole featuring bread, ham, and sharp cheddar, baked to perfection with a crispy cornflake topping—ideal for family brunches or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 8 slices of bread on the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
- Layer with cheese, then ham.
- Add another 8 slices of bread, cheese, and ham on top.
- Beat eggs, then add milk, dry mustard, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread layers.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- Mix cornflake crumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole before baking.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half and half for some of the milk. You can also use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda for variation. If you're short on time, try using pre-cooked ham or leftover ham from other meals. For an added crunch, mix in some diced bell peppers or onions with the layers. This casserole pairs beautifully with Macaroni And Bacon.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings and can be served alongside fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with a refreshing beverage like orange juice or coffee. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley. It also makes a hearty main dish that can stand alone, similar to how Swiss Broccoli Chowder offers a filling option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For quicker reheating, individual portions can be microwaved for about 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Twenty-Four Hour Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 674 calories, with 21g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1389mg per serving (60% 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 casserole in advance?
Yes, this casserole is designed to be prepared the night before. Simply assemble all the layers, pour the egg mixture over it, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy breakfast the next day.
Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for white bread, feel free to use whole wheat, sourdough, or even croissants for added flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that different breads may absorb the egg mixture differently, affecting the final result.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the ham and adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You could also include additional cheese to enhance the flavor and texture.
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).