Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Breakfast Recipe

Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any breakfast table. Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of crispy bacon mingling with fluffy eggs and melted cheese, all baked to perfection in one convenient dish. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that has roots in traditional American breakfasts, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings and brunches alike.

People adore this Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole for its incredible taste and texture. The combination of savory bacon, creamy cheese, and tender eggs creates a harmonious blend that is both hearty and satisfying. Plus, the convenience of preparing it ahead of time means you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without the morning rush. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply treating yourself, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of bacon
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups of cubed bread (preferably day-old or stale)
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Ingredients

1. **Cook the Bacon**: Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. I like to cut the bacon into smaller pieces before cooking, as it makes it easier to distribute throughout the casserole later. Cook until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor. 2. **Prepare the Bread**: While the bacon is cooking, take your cubed bread and place it in a large mixing bowl. If your bread is fresh, you can toast it lightly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to dry it out a bit. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy. 3. **Whisk the Eggs**: In a separate bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them together. Add in the milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk until everything is well combined and frothy. 4. **Combine Ingredients**: Once the bacon has cooled slightly, crumble it into the bowl with the cubed bread. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and bacon, and gently fold everything together until the bread is well coated. Be careful not to overmix; you want the bread to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. 5. **Add Cheese**: Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture, reserving the remaining 1/2 cup for topping later. This will give the casserole a delicious cheesy flavor throughout.

Assembling the Casserole

6. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. 7. **Transfer the Mixture**: Pour the bread, bacon, and egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking. 8. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Cooking Process

9. **Bake the Casserole**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean. 10. **Let it Rest**: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the casserole to firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.

Serving the Casserole

11. **Slice and Serve**: After the casserole has rested, use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. I like to serve mine warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. 12. **Enjoy**: This bacon egg cheese casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a hearty dinner. It’s packed with protein and flavor, and it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. You can also customize it by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the bacon for sausage or ham if you prefer.

Storage and Reheating

13. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 14. **Reheating**: To reheat, simply place a square of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-

Conclusion:

In summary, this Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast game or impress guests at brunch. The combination of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy hash browns for a complete meal. You can also customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or even swapping out the bacon for sausage or ham to suit your taste. The versatility of this recipe means you can make it your own! I encourage you to give this Bacon Egg Cheese Casserole a try and experience the delightful flavors for yourself. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this delicious dish together! Print