This Easter Breakfast Casserole is a warm and tasty dish that brings everyone to the table. With eggs, bread, cheese, and yummy veggies, it’s a perfect start to the holiday!
Everyone loves a cozy breakfast that can be made ahead of time. I love to prep it the night before so I can just pop it in the oven in the morning. It smells heavenly! 🐣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crusty Bread: French bread or sourdough works great for this casserole. The bread absorbs the egg mixture well. If you can’t find these, try using ciabatta or even stale bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold its shape!
Eggs: Eight large eggs give this dish a lovely richness. If you’re looking to make it lighter, feel free to use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites. You could also use a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk is typical, but you can use almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just check they are unsweetened, so the casserole doesn’t taste odd!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor. Monterey Jack or a Swiss cheese can work too. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan cheese alternatives that melt well.
Ham and Sausage: These add protein and flavor. If you’re vegetarian, swap out with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tofu. Precooked bacon can also be a tasty substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Cooked?
The key to a successful casserole is even cooking, so pay attention during preparation and baking. Here are some steps to follow:
- Make sure to whisk the egg mixture well, ensuring the milk and eggs are combined fully for even distribution.
- Press the bread gently into the egg mixture to help it absorb. Letting it soak for 10-15 minutes before baking also works wonders!
- Check for doneness at the 45-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- If you add whole eggs on top, gently crack them without breaking the yolks. They may need an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven.
How to Make Easter Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as French bread or sourdough), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easter Breakfast Casserole takes about 20 minutes to prepare. After that, it needs to bake for about 45-55 minutes. So, plan for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from prep to table, plus a 5-minute rest before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will make cleanup much easier!
2. Assemble the Bread Base:
Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This will create a hearty base for your casserole, soaking up all the egg mixture beautifully.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it). Add in the salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Mix until everything is well combined—this will ensure your casserole is flavorful throughout!
4. Add the Fillings:
Stir in the diced ham, cooked sausage (if using), chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. This exciting mixture will bring loads of flavor to your casserole!
5. Combine with the Bread:
Now, pour this delicious egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in your baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread soak up the egg mixture. This step is important for a perfectly moist casserole!
6. Bake Until Golden:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes. The casserole is done when it’s set in the center and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
7. Add Whole Eggs (Optional):
If you want to add a fun touch, during the last 10 minutes of baking, you can crack a few whole eggs on top of the casserole. This is optional but makes a beautiful presentation!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle it with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
9. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve this warm and inviting breakfast casserole to your family or friends, and watch them enjoy each bite. Happy Easter!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While crusty bread like French or sourdough is great, you can also use ciabatta, brioche, or even stale bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if putting it in the oven cold.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven. Add a splash of milk if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly and label it. When you’re ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding about 15-20 extra minutes to the baking time. If frozen after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
