Breakfast Casserole Recipe: Breakfast is often hailed as the most important meal of the day, and what better way to start your morning than with a warm, hearty breakfast casserole? A breakfast casserole is a versatile, one-dish meal that combines a variety of ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and bread or potatoes, making it a perfect choice for feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week. This dish is especially popular for its ease of preparation and the ability to customize it to suit different dietary preferences, including a pure vegetarian diet.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making a delicious vegetarian breakfast casserole. Whether you’re looking to serve it at a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or simply want a quick and nutritious meal ready to go in the morning, this recipe has you covered. Not only is it flavorful and satisfying, but it also allows you to sneak in a variety of vegetables, making it a healthy option for the whole family.
Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Frying pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 6 Slices bread, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease the 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the bread cubes.
Cook the Vegetables:
- Heat a frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Sauté the diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms until softened, about 5 minutes.
- If using spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, add them in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
- Spread the cooked vegetables evenly over the bread and cheese layer.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil (optional, helps prevent over-browning).
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
- If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking and sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
Rest and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
What is a Breakfast Casserole?
A breakfast casserole is essentially a baked dish that layers or mixes ingredients like vegetables, cheese, and a starchy base such as bread, potatoes, or even grains. It’s designed to be a complete meal, providing a balance of protein, carbs, and fats. The beauty of a breakfast casserole lies in its versatility—ingredients can be swapped based on personal preference or what you have on hand, making it an excellent way to use up leftovers.
More Vegetarian Recipes:
- Smashed Peas on Toast Recipe
- Vegan Chickpea Curry Jacket Potatoes Recipe
- Creamy Halloumi Tomato Curry Recipe
- Keep it Green Sandwich Recipe
Key Ingredients
- Vegetables: Common choices include bell peppers, spinach, onions, tomatoes, and mushrooms. These add color, flavor, and nutritional value to the dish.
- Cheese: Cheese adds richness and flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses can be used depending on your taste.
- Starch: Bread cubes, hash browns, or even quinoa can be used as the starchy component, adding bulk and texture to the casserole.
- Seasonings: Herbs and spices like garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and fresh herbs such as parsley or basil elevate the flavor profile.
How to Make a Vegetarian Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice your choice of vegetables. Sauté them lightly if you prefer a softer texture in the casserole.
- Grate the Cheese: Shred your chosen cheese and set it aside.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly oil a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Starch: If using bread or hash browns, spread them evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Spread the chopped vegetables over the starchy base.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning, making it perfect for busy days.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
- Portion Control: Slice the casserole into individual servings for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
A vegetarian breakfast casserole is a delicious and convenient way to start your day. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Enjoy experimenting with different combinations of vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings to create your signature breakfast casserole!