Breakfast Casserole with Bacon

Breakfast Casserole with Bacon

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why breakfast is dubbed the most important meal of the day? Studies suggest that enjoying a nutritious breakfast can boost metabolism, enhance cognitive functions, and improve mood. If you’re in the mood for a comforting, hearty start to your day, a Breakfast Casserole with Bacon might just be what you need! This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also serves as a convenient, all-in-one meal capable of satisfying even the hungriest family on a busy morning.

Ingredients List

For this delightful Breakfast Casserole with Bacon, you will need:

• 8 slices of bacon (crispy, diced)
• 6 large eggs (fresh, room temperature)
• 2 cups of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (add a mix of mozzarella for a unique flavor)
• 4 cups of stale baguette or bread cubes (a rustic bread works wonders)
• 1 cup of diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green for color)
• 1 cup of chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Substitution Suggestions:

• Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a healthier option.
• Swap the heavy cream with almond or oat milk for dairy-free alternatives.
• Incorporate vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

Timing

This Breakfast Casserole with Bacon requires:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes
  This is 20% less time than the average breakfast casserole recipe, making it a quick yet satisfying choice for any busy morning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing your ingredients. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. This step not only provides flavor but also the delicious bacon drippings can be used as a base for sautéing vegetables.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring an even bake throughout the casserole.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet with bacon drippings, sauté the bell peppers and green onions until they’re tender, about 3-5 minutes. This will enhance their sweetness and depth, infusing flavor into the casserole.

4. Mix the Eggs and Cream

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Add a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture forms the custard base that will envelop your other ingredients.

5. Combine All Ingredients

To the egg mixture, add the bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, cooked bacon, and cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens; the flavors will meld beautifully in the oven!

6. Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

Nutritional Information

This Breakfast Casserole with Bacon serves 8 and contains approximately:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
  These values can vary based on ingredient substitutions, so adjust accordingly for healthier variations.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking to lighten up your Breakfast Casserole with Bacon?

• Use Egg Whites: Reduce cholesterol by substituting 3 whole eggs with 6 egg whites.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Swap regular cheese for low-fat varieties to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Boost fiber and vitamins by incorporating spinach, tomatoes, or kale into the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Take your Breakfast Casserole with Bacon to the next level:

• Serve with Fresh Fruit: A side of seasonal berries or sliced peaches adds a refreshing contrast.
• Top with Avocado: A sprinkle of avocado or guacamole enhances texture and flavor.
• Pair with Hot Sauce: For an exciting kick, drizzle a few drops of hot sauce on your serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Using Stale Bread: Fresh bread can become too mushy; stale bread soaks up the egg mixture better, yielding a perfect texture.
• Oven Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can result in uneven cooking. Stick to 350°F for best results.
• Not Letting It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps with slicing and enhances flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Portion into individual servings, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Meal Prep: You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Conclusion

The Breakfast Casserole with Bacon is a delicious, customizable dish perfect for every morning. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet morning at home, you’ll love the comforting flavors and straightforward preparation. Why not give it a try and experience this culinary delight? Don’t forget to share your thoughts and tweak this recipe to create your perfect version!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it fresh in the morning.

Q: What can I use instead of bacon?
A: Turkey bacon, sausage, or a medley of sautéed vegetables are excellent alternatives.

Q: Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: The casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat before serving!

Ready to whip up your very own Breakfast Casserole with Bacon? Happy cooking!

Breakfast Casserole with Bacon

A comforting and hearty Breakfast Casserole with Bacon, perfect for busy mornings, filling even the hungriest family members with delicious flavors and nutritious ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole

• 8 slices 8 slices of bacon (crispy, diced) Can substitute with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon.
• 6 large 6 large eggs (fresh, room temperature) Use egg whites for a lower cholesterol option.
• 2 cups 2 cups of heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version) Almond or oat milk can be used as dairy-free alternatives.
• 2 cups 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese Mix with mozzarella for unique flavor.
• 4 cups 4 cups of stale baguette or bread cubes Using stale bread prevents sogginess.
• 1 cup 1 cup of diced bell peppers Red, yellow, or green bell peppers can be used.
• 1 cup 1 cup of chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper To taste.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, using the drippings for sautéing vegetables.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Sauté the bell peppers and green onions in the bacon drippings until tender, about 3-5 minutes.

Mixing

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream, adding salt and pepper.
• Combine the egg mixture with bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, cooked bacon, and cheese, mixing until evenly coated.

Baking

• Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden brown and eggs are set.
• Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Notes

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing and enhanced flavor. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Keyword Bacon, Breakfast Casserole, Casserole, Easy Breakfast, Hearty Breakfast

Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 contact@dailypan.com • Pinterest