Ingredients
Scale
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
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