This Cheesy Breakfast Egg Casserole is a classic American breakfast favorite, known for its simplicity and ability to feed a crowd. Ideal for holiday brunches, family gatherings, and weekend mornings, this casserole brings together eggs, cheese, and fresh vegetables in a rich, savory bake.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Egg casseroles have deep roots in American home cooking, known for their convenience and versatility. These breakfast casseroles gained popularity as a way to repurpose leftovers, mixing various ingredients into one satisfying dish. Today, breakfast casseroles are a cherished staple at holiday brunches, potlucks, and family gatherings, representing comfort, warmth, and togetherness.
Ingredients
Basic Ingredients
- Large Eggs – 10
- Milk – 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Onion – 1 medium, diced
- Bell Pepper – 1 medium, diced
- Fresh Spinach – 2 cups, roughly chopped
- Cooked Bacon or Sausage – 1 cup, crumbled (optional)
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black Pepper – ½ tsp
- Garlic Powder – 1 tsp
- Fresh Parsley or Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped (optional)
Optional Additions
- Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
- Zucchini – 1 small, diced
- Green Chilies – ¼ cup, chopped, for a spicy kick
- Hash Browns – 2 cups, for a starchy base
- Sour Cream – ¼ cup, for creamier texture
Tips for Success
- Grease the Baking Dish: Use butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Pre-cook Vegetables and Meats: Sauté onions, bell peppers, and any meat (like bacon or sausage) for a deeper flavor.
- Layer Ingredients Evenly: Spread the vegetables and cheese evenly so each bite is well-balanced.
- Use Whole Milk or Cream: For a richer texture, though lower-fat milk works if preferred.
- Bake Until Just Set: Avoid overbaking for the best texture. The casserole is done when the center is firm but still slightly jiggly.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Ingredients: Sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and optional vegetables (like mushrooms or zucchini) in a bit of oil until soft. Set aside.
- Whisk the Eggs and Milk: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the sautéed vegetables and any cooked bacon or sausage across the greased baking dish. Add the spinach, then sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is just set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Description
This cheesy breakfast egg casserole has a golden-brown, crispy top layer of melted cheese, with fluffy eggs, sautéed vegetables, and optionally, crispy bacon or sausage tucked inside. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella adds creamy richness, while the vegetables bring a fresh balance to the dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated for 8 servings)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
This cheesy egg casserole is a fantastic choice for any breakfast or brunch, offering both comfort and versatility. It’s easy to make, reheats well, and can be adjusted to personal taste. You can even prepare it the night before, making it ideal for a stress-free morning.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a healthier twist, consider using reduced-fat cheese, substituting half the eggs with egg whites, or increasing the vegetable content with spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms. You could also omit the bacon or sausage to reduce fat or replace them with turkey bacon. These lighter variations make this delicious meal more nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
This egg casserole is a delicious way to start the day, packed with protein, vitamins, and adaptable for any flavor preference or dietary need. Enjoy!