Easy Cheese and Egg Casserole for Brunch
If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting brunch option, this easy Cheese and Egg Casserole is just what you need. It’s a simple, cheesy delight that brings together fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and a few pantry staples, creating a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a relaxed weekend treat. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this Cheese and Egg Casserole will quickly become your go-to recipe for any morning occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this dish perfect for busy mornings or last-minute plans.
- Comforting and Filling: The combination of eggs and cheese provides protein and richness that keeps you satisfied for hours.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual brunches, special events, or even meal prep throughout the week.
- Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapted with different cheeses, herbs, or add-ins to suit your taste preferences.
- Feeds a Crowd: This casserole scales up effortlessly, making it perfect to serve a larger group with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using accessible, everyday ingredients is the secret to this delicious Cheese and Egg Casserole. Each component contributes a unique flavor and texture, ensuring the final dish is creamy, fluffy, and full of savory goodness.
- Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing fluffiness and protein.
- Cheese: Choose a melty variety like cheddar or mozzarella for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Milk or Cream: Adds moisture to keep the casserole soft and tender.
- Bread Cubes or Hash Browns: These offer body and texture, absorbing the egg mixture perfectly.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Optional Herbs and Spices: Fresh parsley, chives, or paprika add a bright, fresh dimension.
Variations for Cheese and Egg Casserole
One of the best parts about this casserole is how easily it adapts to your preferences. Whether you need to accommodate dietary restrictions or simply crave different flavors, feel free to mix it up with these variations.
- Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.
- Meat Lover’s Version: Incorporate cooked sausage, bacon bits, or ham for a savory punch.
- Dairy-Free Friendly: Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to awaken your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with basil, thyme, or rosemary to create a more aromatic dish.
How to Make Cheese and Egg Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by whisking together eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth and slightly frothy. If using bread cubes, toast them lightly for added texture. Grate your cheese and set everything aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Spray or butter a baking dish generously. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom, then pour your egg mixture over them. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top to ensure every bite is cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the eggs are fully set. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the casserole firm up, making it easier to serve while keeping it warm and luscious.
Pro Tips for Making Cheese and Egg Casserole
- Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for a fluffier texture and even cooking.
- Cheese Choice Matters: Mixing cheeses like sharp cheddar with mozzarella adds complexity and stretchiness.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the egg mixture gently to avoid dense casserole.
- Non-Stick Baking Dish: Use a well-greased or non-stick pan to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
- Customize Texture: Swap bread for hash browns for a crispy, potato-y twist.
How to Serve Cheese and Egg Casserole
Garnishes
Top with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness that contrast perfectly with the rich, cheesy casserole.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with crisp green salads, fresh fruit, or avocado slices to balance the richness and add variety to your brunch plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for elegant portions, or pack it in a casserole dish for casual family-style sharing. Adding a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream can also elevate the experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Cheese and Egg Casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, preserving freshness and flavor for quick next-day meals.
Freezing
Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Heat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, avoiding dryness.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in the Cheese and Egg Casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or even feta depending on your taste preferences and what you have available.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prepping since you can make it in advance, store leftovers easily, and reheat portions throughout the week.
Can I make this casserole without bread?
Yes! You can substitute bread cubes with hash browns or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free alternative with a different texture.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
Including cooked sausage, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables can boost protein and add variety to the casserole.
How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?
Be sure not to overload the mixture with liquid and toast your bread cubes before assembling to help them absorb moisture without becoming soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese and Egg Casserole is a deliciously easy brunch solution that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your kitchen rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the warm smiles it brings with every bite!
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Cheese and Egg Casserole
An easy, comforting Cheese and Egg Casserole perfect for brunch. This simple, cheesy dish combines fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and pantry staples for a rich, satisfying meal ideal for family gatherings, meal prep, or a relaxing weekend brunch.
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 6 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Texture & Body
- 3 cups bread cubes (lightly toasted) or 3 cups hash browns
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a mix of both)
Optional Herbs and Spices
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Optional Add-ins (Variations)
- 1 cup sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms
- ½ cup cooked sausage, bacon bits, or diced ham
- Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños (to taste)
- Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for infusion
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 1 cup of milk or cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper until smooth and slightly frothy. Lightly toast 3 cups of bread cubes if using, and grate 2 cups of cheese. Set all aside.
- Assemble the Casserole: Generously butter or spray a baking dish. Evenly spread the bread cubes or hash browns across the bottom of the dish. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top to cover the surface for maximum cheesy flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and the eggs are fully set. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it firm up for easier portioning while keeping it warm and luscious.
Notes
- Use room temperature eggs for fluffier texture and even cooking.
- Mix different cheeses like sharp cheddar and mozzarella for added complexity and stretchiness.
- Avoid overmixing the egg mixture to prevent dense casserole.
- Use a well-greased or non-stick baking dish to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Swap bread cubes with hash browns for a crispy, potato-based twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using hash browns or gluten-free bread cubes)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of casserole)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
Keywords: Cheese casserole, egg casserole, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, cheesy eggs, baked casserole, family brunch