Description
Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a comforting and hearty breakfast dish combining the best elements of a classic grilled cheese sandwich with eggs, bacon, and plenty of melted cheese baked into a delicious casserole. Perfect for brunch, weekend breakfasts, or feeding a crowd, this dish offers a convenient make-ahead option with a satisfying blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter
- 8 slices of bread (preferably sturdy white or sourdough)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses), divided
Meat
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (or sausage or ham alternative)
Garnish
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread butter on one side of each bread slice and place them buttered side up in a single layer in the baking dish, cutting pieces to fit as needed.
- Cook the Bacon (or Other Meat): In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble. If using sausage or ham, cook in the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the buttered bread in the baking dish. Sprinkle crumbled bacon or chosen meat on top, then evenly distribute the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese over the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and eggs are set (test by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean).
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- Add sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrition.
- Try different cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for variety.
- For a spicy twist, incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before; cover and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.
- Swap bacon with sausage, ham, or vegetarian sausage for different meat options or dietary preferences.
