Short Description

A hearty, savory breakfast casserole featuring crispy bacon, soft eggs, melted cheese, and tender bread, all baked to golden perfection—a comforting, make‑ahead dish ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together classic breakfast flavors in one easy-to-serve dish. It’s make‑ahead friendly, customizable to your tastes, and feeds a crowd with minimal fuss. The combination of smoky bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bacon, cooked and chopped
Eggs
Milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
Bread, cubed (such as French bread or sandwich bread)
Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
Salt
Pepper
Optional add-ins: diced onion, bell pepper, fresh herbs like parsley or chives

Directions

Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F).
Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
Sprinkle the chopped, cooked bacon and any desired diced vegetables or herbs over the bread.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and bacon. Press gently so the liquid is absorbed.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
Bake for approximately 35–45 minutes, until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 8 (depending on portion size)
Timing:
- Prep time: about 15 minutes (plus optional ahead-of-time assembly)
- Bake time: about 35–45 minutes
- Resting time: 5–10 minutes
- Total time: approximately 60 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Omit bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers.
Meat lovers’ version: Include cooked sausage or diced ham alongside the bacon.
Italian twist: Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
Spicy kick: Stir in chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the egg mixture.
Cheesy variation: Fold extra cheese into the egg mixture for a creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
- Cover any leftover casserole and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- For longer storage, portion it and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- From fridge: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- From freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 180 °C (350 °F) for about 15–20 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

1. What type of bread works best in this casserole?

A bread that absorbs liquid well, like French bread, sourdough, or sturdy sandwich bread, is ideal. Day-old bread works particularly well for texture.

2. Can I assemble this casserole the night before?

Yes. You can layer all ingredients, cover the dish, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.

3. Can I use egg substitutes or egg whites only?

Yes. Substitute with egg whites or a plant-based egg substitute—just ensure the total volume equals the number of eggs called for.

4. How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a non-dairy milk (like almond or soy) and a dairy-free cheese substitute. Ensure the cheese you choose melts well.

5. Can I use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon?

Absolutely. Any bacon alternative works—simply cook and chop it as you would regular bacon.

6. How do I know it’s fully cooked?

The casserole should be puffed, set in the center (no jiggle), and lightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

7. Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Dice vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, or broccoli and sauté or blanch them before adding to ensure they’re tender.

8. What cheese varieties work well?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or pepper jack all pair nicely. You can also use a shredded blend for flavor depth.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute the bread with a gluten-free loaf—ensure it’s sturdy enough to absorb the egg mixture without getting mushy.

10. How do I reheat without drying it out?

Cover the casserole loosely with foil when baking to reheat, or sprinkle a bit of milk over the top before heating to retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Bacon Breakfast Casserole is a simple yet crowd‑pleasing dish that brings together classic breakfast elements in one convenient bake. Easy to assemble ahead of time, endlessly customizable, and delicious any time of day—its versatility makes it a go-to for effortless, satisfying meals. Enjoy!