Easy Breakfast Casserole Recipe for 9x13 Pan

Starting your day with a hearty breakfast can set a positive tone, and a breakfast casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead. This 9×13-inch casserole combines eggs, cheese, bread, and savory ingredients for a flavorful, filling dish that can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning.

Ingredients

1 loaf (about 16 slices) of day-old bread or French bread, cubed
1 pound (16 oz) breakfast sausage or cooked bacon, crumbled or chopped

2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
8 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Fresh chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish.

Sprinkle the cooked sausage or bacon evenly over the bread cubes.
Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the meat and bread layers.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder until well combined.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish, making sure all the bread is soaked.
Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the eggs.
Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.

Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired.

Tips

If you don’t have day-old bread, lightly toast fresh bread slices before cubing to help them absorb the egg mixture better.

For a vegetarian version, substitute cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for the meat.
To store leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until hot.
Ensure the casserole is baked until the center is set; underbaking can result in a runny texture, while overbaking may dry it out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this breakfast casserole with fresh fruit, a side of crispy bacon or sausage links, or a light mixed green salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with hot coffee or fresh juice to kick-start your morning.

Variations

Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or feta for added flavor. Incorporate cooked vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, or zucchini for a veggie-packed version. You can also swap the breakfast sausage for cooked chicken or turkey sausage to vary the protein source. For a spicy twist, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the egg mixture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover breakfast casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover a portion with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. For best results, reheat individual servings rather than the entire dish to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, assembling the casserole the night before and refrigerating it overnight allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish. Just cover it tightly and bake in the morning as directed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.

What other bread types work best?

Stale bread, French bread, brioche, or even croissants can work well. The key is using bread that’s slightly dried out or toasted to absorb the egg mixture without becoming mushy.

Is it necessary to pre-cook the meat?

Yes, pre-cooking meats like sausage or bacon ensures they are fully cooked and prevents excess moisture from making the casserole soggy. Cook and crumble or chop before layering.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the eggs are fully set, the top is golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time is typically 45-50 minutes at 350°F.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or omit it entirely and add cooked hash browns or sliced potatoes as a base. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Easy Breakfast Casserole Recipe for 9×13 Pan