Breakfast casseroles are a wonderful way to start any day, and I know you’ll love these two easy recipes. They are perfect for feeding a crowd, preparing ahead, or just enjoying a comforting meal.
I’ve gathered two of my favorite casserole ideas here: one for a classic potato and cheese delight, and another for a special holiday morning. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
Delicious Cheesy Potato Breakfast Casserole
This hearty casserole is packed with potatoes, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for a weekend brunch or a busy weekday morning.
I love how simple it is to put together, making your mornings easier and tastier.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Potato Casserole
- Frozen Hash Browns: Using pre-shredded or diced frozen potatoes saves a lot of prep time. You don’t even need to thaw them first!
- Cheese Choices: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives the best melt and flavor. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
- Make Ahead: You can assemble this casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
What You Need for this Cheesy Breakfast Bake
- 1 lb frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)
- 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled (or bacon)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes⏱️ Cook Time: 45-55 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make This Easy Potato Casserole
Step 1: Prep Oven and Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. If you’re using sausage or bacon, cook it until done, then drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 2: Combine Casserole Layers
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the frozen hash browns, cooked sausage (or bacon), chopped onion, bell pepper, and both types of shredded cheese to the egg mixture. Stir everything gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake Until Golden
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it set further and makes for cleaner slices.
📝 Final Note on Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Festive Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole
Get ready for a festive morning with this delightful Christmas breakfast casserole. It’s full of holiday cheer and simple to make, perfect for sharing with family.
I love preparing this the night before so I can wake up to a delicious, no-fuss holiday breakfast.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Christmas Casserole
- Stale Bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it soaks up the egg mixture without getting soggy. Brioche or challah bread adds a rich touch.
- Holiday Flavors: Don’t skip the cinnamon and nutmeg. They bring that cozy, warm holiday feeling to the casserole. A touch of orange zest is also lovely.
- Overnight Chill: Letting the casserole sit in the fridge overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a more uniform texture.
What You Need for this Holiday Breakfast Bake
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (like challah or brioche)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
⏱️ Prep Time: 20 minutes⏱️ Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight⏱️ Cook Time: 50-60 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make This Easy Christmas Casserole
Step 1: Arrange Bread Cubes
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly over the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the dried cranberries and chopped pecans or walnuts over the bread.
Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish, making sure all the bread is soaked. Gently press down on the bread with a spoon to help it absorb the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
Step 4: Bake for Christmas Morning
On baking day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, golden brown, and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. If you like, dust with powdered sugar before bringing it to the table for an extra festive look.
📝 Final Note on Toppings
This casserole is also wonderful with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a side of fresh berries.
