Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole
This Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious way to start your morning. It’s packed with eggs, cheese, crispy bacon or sausage, and lots of bread that soaks…
Tip: save now, cook later.This Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a hearty and delicious way to start your morning. It’s packed with eggs, cheese, crispy bacon or sausage, and lots of bread that soaks up all the tasty flavors overnight. The best part is how you prepare it the night before, so breakfast is ready to pop in the oven first thing in the morning.
I love making this casserole when I have guests or want a stress-free weekend breakfast. It’s a total crowd-pleaser because everyone enjoys waking up to this warm, cheesy, and filling dish without me having to cook from scratch in the morning. My tip is to mix in plenty of your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to add a fresh touch.
Serving it with some fresh fruit or a simple green salad makes it a balanced meal that feels like a special treat but comes together so easily. I also like cutting it into squares and wrapping leftovers for quick grab-and-go breakfasts during busy weekdays. This casserole definitely earns a regular spot in my breakfast rotation!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Using day-old or slightly stale bread is important because it soaks up the egg mixture without turning soggy. If you want a gluten-free option, try gluten-free bread cubes or even cooked quinoa.
Eggs and Dairy: Eggs provide structure and richness, while whole milk and heavy cream add creaminess. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream for extra milk or use a dairy-free milk and omit the cream.
Meats: Breakfast sausage and bacon give great flavor and texture. You can use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a leaner or vegetarian version. Just make sure to cook them well before assembling.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers bold flavor here. I like adding mozzarella for a melty finish. You can substitute with Colby, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and texture. Feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes depending on your preference.
How Can You Make Sure the Casserole Sets Perfectly Overnight?
The key to a perfect breakfast casserole is letting it soak overnight so the bread absorbs the egg mixture well. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use stale bread cubes so they don’t fall apart quickly but soak up liquid nicely.
- Whisk eggs and dairy thoroughly to create a smooth custard that coats ingredients evenly.
- Press the bread gently after pouring the custard to help it all absorb.
- Cover tightly to prevent drying out and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Before baking, allow it to sit at room temp for 15 minutes to avoid sudden temperature shock, which can affect texture.
Following these tips ensures your casserole is creamy, set, and holds its shape when sliced—ready to serve a crowd first thing in the morning!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking this casserole evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk eggs and milk smoothly without spills.
- Whisk – helps blend the egg mixture until silky and lump-free.
- Skillet – for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables, adds extra flavor.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate seasoning and ingredient amounts.
- Plastic wrap or foil – to cover the casserole and keep it fresh overnight.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap breakfast sausage for diced ham or cooked chorizo for a different meaty twist.
- Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens and color.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in diced mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to deepen the flavor.
How to Make Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Bread & Dairy:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Meats:
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), cooked and crumbled
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Vegetables & Cheese:
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or mixed)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole requires about 20 minutes of active prep time, plus an overnight chill of at least 6 hours so all the flavors meld together beautifully. Then, you’ll bake it for around 50 minutes before letting it rest a few minutes for easier slicing. Planning ahead makes mornings so much simpler!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Ingredients:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a nonstick spray. Spread your cubed bread evenly across the bottom. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbly, then drain excess fat. Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Set these aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
Whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl until everything is smooth and mixed well.
3. Layer the Casserole:
On top of the bread cubes, layer the cooked sausage, sautéed veggies, chopped bacon, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly.
4. Assemble and Chill Overnight:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients in the dish. Gently press down the layers so the bread soaks up the liquid. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours.
5. Bake and Serve:
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while the oven heats up. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just swap the regular bread with gluten-free bread cubes. Make sure to use a sturdy gluten-free bread that can soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Can I Prepare This Without Bacon or Sausage?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for more flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the casserole creamy and delicious.
Can I Freeze This Breakfast Casserole?
Yes! After baking and cooling completely, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
