This Egg Bake Casserole is your go-to for a hearty breakfast! It features fluffy eggs mixed with tasty veggies and cheese, all baked to golden perfection.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this dish is as easy as whisking, pouring, and baking. Trust me, your mornings will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are the star ingredient. They provide structure and richness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, egg whites can be used or egg substitutes for lower cholesterol.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a lovely sharp flavor. Feel free to swap it out for something like mozzarella or pepper jack for extra kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you need dairy-free options.
Vegetables: Mushrooms and broccoli add a healthy touch. You can replace them with spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini based on what you have at hand or prefer. Frozen veggies work well too; just thaw and drain them before using.
Bread or Cornbread: This is optional but great for texture. If you want a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free bread or skip it altogether for a lighter casserole.
Optional Meat: Adding sausage or bacon boosts flavor but is not necessary. For a vegetarian version, keep it meat-free or use plant-based sausage.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Set Egg Casserole?
Getting your egg bake casserole just right takes some attention, especially when it comes to egg cooking time. The key is to cook it long enough for the eggs to set without drying them out.
- Preheat the oven to ensure even cooking.
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly to mix in air, leading to fluffiness. Combine them well with the milk to create a creamy blend.
- Your casserole is done when the edges puff up and the center is set, not jiggly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Let it cool slightly before cutting to help it hold its shape.
Follow these tips, and you will have a delicious egg bake casserole that everyone will love! Enjoy!
How to Make Egg Bake Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Vegetables:
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 cups cornbread or bread croutons, cubed (for added texture)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- Optional: cooked sausage or bacon bits (for added protein)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious egg bake casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation, followed by 35 to 40 minutes of baking time. Total time is around 55 minutes, making it a great choice for a hearty breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×9 inch baking dish using butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Once hot, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped broccoli. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, until they’re tender. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool for a moment.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until everything is combined smoothly.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the sautéed vegetables, chopped green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. If you want a meaty kick, now’s the time to incorporate cooked sausage or bacon bits, and give everything a good stir.
5. Add in the Bread (Optional):
If you’re using bread or cornbread, fold in the cubed pieces gently to add more texture to your casserole. This step is optional but delicious!
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, making sure it’s evenly distributed across the dish.
7. Bake:
Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, watching for the eggs to set and the top to turn a lovely golden brown.
8. Let it Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions for a fresh pop!
9. Serve:
Slice it into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful egg bake casserole with friends and family for a wonderful breakfast experience!
This casserole combines fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and healthy veggies for an energizing start to your day. It’s perfect for brunch or even a light dinner!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Egg Bake Casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini are great choices. Just ensure they are chopped small and sautéed until tender before adding them to the egg mixture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before by following all the steps up to pouring it into the baking dish. Cover it and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It also makes for a great meal prep option!
Can I Freeze This Egg Bake Casserole?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
