Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Transform your mornings with this overnight breakfast casserole! Packed with crispy bacon, vibrant green onions, and melty cheese, it’s a hearty, flavorful way to start the day.
Perfect for feeding a crowd, this casserole comes together effortlessly the night before. The bread soaks in a savory egg mixture overnight, creating a delightfully fluffy, cheesy breakfast dish that’s ready to bake in the morning.
The Must-Have Ingredients for Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Bread – Cubed and dried, forming the perfect base to soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
- Eggs – The heart of the casserole, creating a creamy, custard-like texture.
- Cheddar Cheese – Sharp and melty, adding richness to every bite.
- Bacon – Crispy and smoky, or substitute with ham for a savory twist.
- Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color for visual and flavorful appeal.
- Green Onions – A fresh, zesty finish to balance the rich flavors.
- Milk – Combines with eggs for a light, fluffy consistency.
- Dry Mustard Powder – Subtly enhances the flavor, adding depth.
- Seasonings – Salt and black pepper round out the dish beautifully.
How to Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Prepare the bread: Cube and dry it overnight or bake briefly to ensure it’s ready to absorb the egg mixture.
- Mix the custard: Whisk eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Layer the casserole: Alternate layers of bread, cheese, bacon, and vegetables in a greased dish.
- Add the custard: Pour the egg mixture evenly, ensuring the bread soaks it up.
- Chill overnight: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Bake to perfection: Cook covered at 350°F until the center is set and fluffy.
Tips for a Perfect Overnight Breakfast Casserole
For an extra crispy top, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. Substitute bacon with sausage or make it vegetarian by adding mushrooms and spinach. Always allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Storing and Reheating Your Casserole
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through. Freezing? Wrap in foil and store for up to a month.
This overnight breakfast casserole is a surefire hit for holidays, brunch gatherings, or busy mornings. Assemble the night before and wake up to the tantalizing aroma of a warm, comforting meal that everyone will love!
Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 12 slices thick bread cubed (approximately 14 cups)
- ½ red bell pepper finely diced
- 3 cups milk
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 12 slices bacon cooked and crumbled (or 1 cup diced ham)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 green onions thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cube the bread and allow it to dry overnight or bake at 300°F for 10 minutes, ensuring it becomes slightly dry without browning or toasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the bread cubes as the base layer in the dish. Sprinkle with half of the bacon, green onions, bell peppers, and shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining ingredients.
- Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring all bread pieces are soaked. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Before baking, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while preheating your oven to 350°F.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. If preparing two pans, extend the cooking time to 60–80 minutes.