Ina Garten s Bacon Egg and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that will please a crowd, look no further than Ina Garten’s Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole. This comforting casserole combines crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese for a delightful start to your day. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday mornings, or even a simple weekday breakfast when you want something a bit special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole can be assembled the night before, making morning prep a breeze.
• Feeds a Crowd: With its hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for serving a large group.
• Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients, making it suitable for everyone’s tastes.

Let’s get started on this scrumptious breakfast casserole!

Ingredients for Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Casserole

• 8 slices of bacon
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 loaf of crusty bread, cut into cubes (about 8 cups)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (optional)

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Cutting board and knife

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
2. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. When cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon and half of the cheddar cheese over the bread.
4. Pour half of the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
5. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, bacon, cheese, and egg mixture.
6. If using, sprinkle the chopped chives on top for added flavor and color.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before. Just cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
• Choose the Right Bread: A crusty bread like French or Italian works best, providing a sturdy base that holds up during baking.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix cheeses or use different varieties like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a kick.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Variations and Swaps

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the bacon with sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Add Spices: For a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.