This Bacon Breakfast Casserole merges crispy bacon with fluffy eggs and cheese, all baked to golden perfection! It’s a hearty and delicious way to start your day.
Who wouldn’t want a warm slice filled with crunchy goodness? I love making this on weekends when I have a bit more time to enjoy breakfast with family. It’s a happy way to gather around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The star of this dish! Feel free to swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon or even a veggie bacon for a lighter option. You could also use cooked sausage or ham for a different twist.
Eggs: Always use large eggs for this recipe. If you want to make it lighter, you can replace some eggs with egg whites. Just remember, the texture might be a bit different.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is great for flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different taste. Vegan cheese works well if you want a dairy-free option.
Hash Browns: Either fresh or frozen works perfectly, but if you’re in a pinch, diced potatoes or tater tots could also be fun substitutes for extra crunch.
Onion: While optional, onion adds nice flavor. You can skip it if you’re not a fan or try green onions for a milder taste.
How Do You Ensure Your Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture in your casserole is key! Make sure to whisk the eggs until they’re fully combined; this helps create a fluffy texture when baked. Also, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking before slicing. This allows it to firm up a bit!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Mix everything gently so you don’t break the hash browns or bacon bits too much.
- Give it plenty of time in the oven; undercooked casseroles may be runny.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be serving a perfect bacon breakfast casserole every time!
How to Make a Delicious Bacon Breakfast Casserole!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups hash browns (frozen or fresh)
- 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For Garnishing:
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Bacon Breakfast Casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45-50 minutes to bake, making a total of approximately 1 hour. Then, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Perfect for a hearty breakfast any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and get that nice golden top. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13 inch dish. This will prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces for easy mixing.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack in the eggs and add the milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will make your casserole fluffy and flavorful.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the hash browns, half of your crumbled bacon, half of the cheddar cheese, and the diced onion (if you’re using it) to the egg mixture. Gently fold everything together until nicely combined, being careful not to break the hash browns too much.
5. Pour and Spread:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking. Top it off with the remaining cheese and the rest of the bacon for that extra deliciousness.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set and the top is beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a bit more, making it easier to slice. Finally, garnish with diced avocado, tomato, and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for that fresh kick!
8. Slice and Serve:
Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Bacon Breakfast Casserole along with your favorite breakfast beverages. It’s sure to be a hit!
Dig in and enjoy this hearty, delicious bacon breakfast casserole with your loved ones!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use egg substitutes like flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. For every large egg, replace it with 1/4 cup of egg substitute. Keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly from using real eggs.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can last for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Additional Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to your casserole. Just sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture, which will help keep your casserole from becoming soggy.