Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese

Name: Breakfast Casserole With Eggs And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 large eggs; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix); 1 loaf of bread, cubed (preferably stale); 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Optional: cooked vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers)

Highlighted under: Weeknight Quick Meals Collection

Whenever I want a warm, comforting breakfast that can feed a crowd, I turn to my go-to recipe for Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Cheese. This dish has everything I love about breakfast: creamy eggs, gooey cheese, and hearty bread all baked together. It's a fantastic way to use up leftover bread while creating something truly delicious. I often prepare it the night before so that all I have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-14T23:15:36.528Z

When I first made this breakfast casserole, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. Using fresh eggs and a variety of cheeses makes a big difference in flavor. My family couldn’t stop raving about it! The trick is to let it sit for a while before baking, allowing the bread to soak up all that eggy goodness.

I've experimented with different cheeses and veggies, and I love adding a little spinach or bell pepper for an extra pop of flavor. Each time, I’m amazed at how versatile this recipe is. It’s become a staple in our house!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a group
Rich, cheesy goodness in every bite
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

The Importance of Stale Bread

Using stale bread in this casserole is a key component for achieving the perfect texture. Fresh bread tends to become overly soggy when mixed with the egg mixture, while stale bread absorbs the liquid without falling apart completely. Ideally, you should use bread that has been left out for a day or two, or you can toast fresh bread lightly before cubing it. This simple step ensures that each bite retains structure while still being moist and flavorful.

If you don't have stale bread on hand, you can easily use a variety of breads such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free options. The flavor will vary slightly depending on your choice, but each variety can contribute a unique element to your casserole. Just be sure to avoid overly sweet breads, as they can clash with the savory flavors of the eggs and cheese.

Customizing Your Breakfast Casserole

One of the best aspects of this Breakfast Casserole is its versatility. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for any dietary preference. For instance, if you want to add protein, consider folding in cooked bacon, sausage, or ham. If your guests are vegetarian, add a variety of cooked vegetables. Bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms are fantastic choices. Just be sure to sauté any vegetables first to release moisture, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy casserole.

Experimenting with different cheeses can also elevate the dish. While cheddar and mozzarella are commonly used, don't hesitate to try a blend of cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or goat cheese for creaminess. Each cheese adds a unique taste profile, enriching the overall flavor of the casserole. Keep in mind, however, that stronger cheeses can dominate the dish; balance is key.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Breakfast Casserole is conveniently make-ahead friendly. You can prepare the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight but also saves precious time in the morning. Just be sure to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it goes straight from the fridge to the oven, ensuring it cooks through evenly.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick breakfasts throughout the week. For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked or cooked portions. To freeze, slice the casserole into portions, wrap them tightly in foil, and place them in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen, adding extra time as needed, or thaw in the fridge before baking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the Breakfast Casserole:

Ingredients

8 large eggs
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 loaf of bread, cubed (preferably stale)
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional: cooked vegetables (like spinach or bell peppers)

Make sure to have everything measured and ready to make the process smooth!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Breakfast Casserole:

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and shredded cheese.

Mix the Eggs

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese, ensuring everything is well coated. If using, add the cooked vegetables at this time.

Let it Sit

Cover the dish and let it sit for 30 minutes, allowing the bread to absorb the egg mixture.

Bake

Uncover and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your hearty breakfast casserole warm!

Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite breakfast sides!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, try incorporating different cheeses or even diced meats like ham or bacon. You can also use leftover vegetables for added nutrition.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole turns out too dry, it may be due to either over-baking or not using enough liquid. To troubleshoot, ensure you are measuring the milk accurately and watch the baking time closely. The casserole should be just set in the center with a slight jiggle, and the edges should be golden brown. If you notice it cooking too quickly, consider covering it with foil for part of the bake time to prevent the top from browning too much before the center cooks through.

On the other hand, if your casserole ends up too soggy, it could mean that the bread wasn't stale enough or that too many wet ingredients were added. In the future, make sure to use adequately stale bread and sauté any fresh vegetables to release their moisture before combining them with the egg mixture.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this Breakfast Casserole is excellent on its own, but a few garnishes can elevate it even further. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a salsa verde on the side can also enhance the flavors and add a nice tang to each bite.

Pairing this dish with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad can bring balance to the meal, especially for brunch gatherings. The fresh acidity and sweetness of fruit can beautifully contrast the richness of the casserole, making for a well-rounded breakfast experience. Don’t forget to serve coffee, tea, or juice to round out your breakfast offering!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before baking.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

You can add cooked sausage, bacon, or any vegetables you prefer, such as mushrooms or broccoli.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.