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A hearty overnight breakfast casserole with eggs, cheese, and vegetables.

Classic Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Eggs

Prepare this delicious Classic Overnight Breakfast Casserole the night before for a stress-free morning. It's packed with eggs, bread, cheese, and your choice of meat and vegetables, making it perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 7 hours 20 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 6-8 slices day-old bread (white, wheat, sourdough, or brioche), cubed (around 4-5 cups)
  • 10-12 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, colby, or a mix)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage, bacon, or diced ham
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
  • 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms

Seasoning & Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • paprika Pinch (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread the cubed bread evenly in the bottom.
  • If using, sprinkle meat or vegetables over the bread; sauté fresh vegetables in 1 tablespoon of butter until softened before adding.
  • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the bread and fillings.

Assembly

  • Whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined and frothy.
  • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and fillings, pressing the bread gently to ensure saturation.

Overnight Chill & Bake

  • Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight (8-12 hours).
  • The next morning, remove the casserole from the fridge 30 minutes before baking and preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Uncover, sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese, and bake for 45-60 minutes until puffed, set, and golden brown.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing, serving, and garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For best results, use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Customize with your favorite cheese, cooked meats, or vegetables. Adjust seasonings to your preference. This casserole is perfect for meal prepping and feeding a crowd!