Overnight Breakfast Casserole

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Nothing speaks to the heart of home cooking like a hearty breakfast casserole that greets you with warm, savory aromas on a lazy weekend morning.

This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day without the crazy rush of preparation amidst the chaos of breakfast time.

Simply put it together the night before, let it chill in the fridge, and when morning comes, all you have to do is pop it in the oven.

With a wonderful blend of breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, this casserole is nothing short of a crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The charm of this Overnight Breakfast Casserole lies in its effortless preparation and sensational flavor.

Whether it’s for a cozy family brunch, holiday gatherings, or meal prep for busy weekdays, this dish packs in plenty of protein, vegetables, and delightful textures.

Alternating layers of crusty bread, savory meats, and rich cheeses come together beautifully, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

Plus, the convenience of making this dish ahead of time cannot be overstated; it really allows you to savor those precious moments with your loved ones while waiting for this delicious creation to bake.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) ground breakfast sausage, cooked and drained
• 8 ounces (225 g) halal turkey bacon, diced and cooked until crispy
• ¾ cup small diced white onion
• 1 cup small diced green bell pepper
• 1 cup small diced red bell pepper
• 4 cups crusty bread, cut into small cubes
• 8 ounces (225 g) Velveeta cheese, diced into small pieces
• 12 large eggs, well beaten
• ⅔ cup (120 ml) half and half
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (240 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

How To Make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Bacon

Start by cooking your ground breakfast sausage in a large skillet over medium heat.

Break it apart with a wooden spoon until it’s fully cooked and nicely browned.

Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add your diced turkey bacon and cook it until it’s crispy.

This will add wonderful texture and flavor to the casserole.

Once crispy, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the drippings left in the skillet, you can sauté your small diced white onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper until the onions become translucent and the peppers soften—about 5-7 minutes.

This step releases their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.

Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a large 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, crispy bacon, sautéed vegetables, and cubed crusty bread.

Gently toss to ensure everything is evenly mixed in the bowl.

Then, stir in the diced Velveeta cheese, allowing pieces to mingle throughout the mixture.

In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, half and half, salt, and black pepper.

Pour this egg mixture over the bread and meat mixture in the baking dish.

Make sure everything is well-coated, pushing down any bread pieces if necessary to ensure they soak up the egg mixture.

Step 5: Add the Cheddar

Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese all over the top of the casserole, then cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the bread absorb the egg mixture.

Step 6: Bake and Enjoy

On the day you plan to serve your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is melted and golden.

Let it cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving warm.

Enjoy your delicious Overnight Breakfast Casserole!

Expert Tips

• For best results, use day-old bread or slightly dried bread. This helps it soak up the egg mixture better without getting soggy.
• If you prefer more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick.
• You can prepare the casserole without the bacon and sausage for a vegetarian version; just increase the number of veggies to add flavor and texture.
• For those who love herbs, adding a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs such as chives or parsley before baking can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap out the turkey bacon with halal beef bacon or leave it out entirely for a lighter dish.
• Mix in different vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms, adjusting based on your preference.
• For a cheesy twist, consider adding pepper jack cheese along with or instead of sharp cheddar for a spicier flavor.
• Serve the casserole with a dollop of salsa or avocado on top for a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your overnight breakfast casserole, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also freeze portions of the casserole for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute the crusty bread with a gluten-free bread option.

Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free to maintain the dish’s integrity.

Can I prep this casserole the morning of serving?

It’s best to prepare the casserole the night before to let the flavors meld and the bread soak up the egg mixture.

However, you can let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours if you need to prep on the same day.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole should be golden brown on top, and a knife inserted into the center should come out clean, which indicates the eggs are set.

Can I customize the proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different breakfast meats, such as chicken sausage or other halal options, to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and satisfying solution for your breakfast or brunch gatherings.

With its savory combination of meats, hearty vegetables, and rich cheeses, it promises an indulgent start to the day.

The ease of preparation, especially the night before, makes it an incredibly convenient option for busy families or those who love to host.

Give this recipe a try, and discover the joy of waking up to the tempting aroma of breakfast that’s already waiting for you!

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