Ina Garten’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole

why make this recipe

Ina Garten’s Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic choice for breakfast or brunch. It’s perfect for lazy mornings when you want a delicious meal without spending all your time in the kitchen. By preparing it the night before, you let the flavors meld and save time in the morning. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a warm, hearty dish that everyone will love.

how to make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients :

• 1 loaf of crusty bread, cut into cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or cheddar)
• 1 cup diced cooked ham or cooked bacon
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, spinach)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fresh herbs (e.g., chives or parsley) for garnish

Directions :

1. Grease a large baking dish. Layer the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Pour over the bread.
3. Sprinkle with cheese, ham or bacon, and vegetables.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes until golden and set.
7. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

how to serve Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Serve the Overnight Breakfast Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs for a delightful touch. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole. This dish can be plated individually or served family-style from the baking dish.

how to store Overnight Breakfast Casserole

If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers. Cut them into portions, wrap them well, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Overnight Breakfast Casserole

• Use day-old bread for the best texture. Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better.
• Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite ingredients. Swap different cheeses, meats, or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
• If you want a little spice, add some diced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes in with the eggs.
• For extra creaminess, use half-and-half instead of milk.

variation

Try a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or different cheese like feta or goat cheese. You can also make it Southwest-inspired with black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole without meat?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ham or bacon and adding more vegetables.

2. How long does it take to bake from the fridge?
Baking time is usually the same, around 45-55 minutes, but check for doneness. It should be golden brown and set in the middle.

3. Can I freeze the Overnight Breakfast Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze it after baking. Just let it cool completely, then cut into portions and store in airtight containers for up to a month.

Overnight Breakfast Casserole

A delicious and hearty breakfast casserole that can be prepared the night before for a stress-free morning meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 loaf crusty bread, cut into cubes Use day-old bread for better texture.
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk For extra creaminess, use half-and-half.
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., Gruyère or cheddar) Feel free to swap out for your favorite cheeses.
• 1 cup diced cooked ham or cooked bacon Can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, spinach) Customize with your favorite vegetables.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional) Add a bit of zest if you like.
• Fresh herbs (e.g., chives or parsley) for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Grease a large baking dish. Layer the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard (if using). Pour over the bread.
3. Sprinkle with cheese, ham or bacon, and vegetables.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake uncovered for about 45-55 minutes until golden and set.
3. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

Notes

This casserole pairs well with fresh fruit or a light salad. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.