Description
Looking for a make-ahead breakfast that’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd? This Overnight Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate solution. Loaded with savory beef, eggs, cheese, and fresh veggies layered over cubes of bread, it’s a no-fuss dish you prep the night before and simply bake in the morning. Perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or busy mornings.
Want more make-ahead breakfast ideas sent to your inbox? Subscribe now and get delicious recipes you’ll love every morning.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base:
-
6 cups bread cubes (day-old or slightly toasted white, sourdough, or whole grain)
-
1 lb ground beef
-
1 small onion, finely chopped
-
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
-
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
-
½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
For the Egg Mixture:
-
8 large eggs
-
2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp onion powder
-
½ tsp salt
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky depth)
Optional Add-ins:
-
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
-
½ cup cooked broccoli florets
-
¼ cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Casserole Base
-
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and add the bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
-
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
-
Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
-
Spread the cooked beef and veggie mixture over the bread cubes in the dish.
-
Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 2: Mix the Eggs
6. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
7. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the casserole layers, pressing down slightly with a spatula to ensure all the bread gets soaked.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight
8. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps the bread absorb all the egg mixture for a fluffy texture.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
11. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
12. Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use Stale Bread – Slightly dry bread soaks up the egg mixture better, giving a soft yet structured texture.
Press It Down – Gently pressing the casserole before chilling ensures the bread fully absorbs the egg mix.
Let It Sit Before Baking – Taking it out of the fridge for a bit before baking helps it cook evenly.
Customize Freely – Swap out beef for ground chicken or turkey, use different cheeses like Swiss or pepper jack, or load it up with extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Cuisine: American