Meet your new go-to brunch favorite: Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole. This simple, hearty dish transforms humble everyday ingredients into a golden, bubbling crowd-pleaser that welcomes you to the morning before you even roll out of bed. There’s nothing like the aroma of savory sausage, melty cheese, and pillowy bread mingling in the oven while you sip your coffee. Whether you’re hosting friends for Sunday brunch, prepping for a family holiday, or just want a stress-free breakfast, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole lies in how a handful of classic ingredients work together for maximum flavor. Each plays its own starring role in taste and texture, ensuring every bite is cozy, satisfying, and full of color.
- Bread (8 cups cubed, French or sourdough, day-old preferred): Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture without going soggy, giving the casserole its structure and signature golden edges.
- Breakfast sausage or bacon (1 pound, cooked and crumbled): Adds hearty richness and savory depth; choose your favorite or mix both for a double punch of flavor.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts beautifully for a creamy, gooey layer that holds everything together and adds a vibrant orange hue.
- Bell peppers (1/2 cup, diced): Bring sweetness and a pop of color, making every slice as cheerful as it is delicious.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped): Add a fresh, mildly sharp note that balances the richness of sausage and cheese.
- Eggs (8 large): The main binder, eggs transform the casserole into an irresistibly fluffy bake.
- Milk (2 cups): Keeps everything moist and custardy—whole or 2% milk work best for a tender bite.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to boost the savory notes without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for rounding out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and peppery bite.
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing): Ensures the casserole releases effortlessly so you capture every crispy edge.
How to Make Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Prep and Grease the Baking Dish
Begin by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This step not only prevents sticking but also helps create perfectly crispy edges and an easy release when it’s time to serve. Make sure you cover every corner for stress-free slicing later.
Step 2: Layer the Bread and Toppings
Scatter the cubed bread evenly over the base of your dish to create a sturdy foundation. Next, sprinkle over your cooked sausage (or bacon), making sure every section gets its fair share of salty goodness. Top with shredded cheddar, bell peppers, and a flourish of green onions so every slice is brimming with color and flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Eggs and Milk Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and a little frothy. This custard is the magic that binds and lifts the Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole into a tender, fluffy feast.
Step 4: Pour and Soak
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and toppings, making sure it reaches every nook and cranny. Gently press down on the mixture with a spatula or the back of a spoon, encouraging the bread to soak up all that savory goodness. The more soaked, the softer and tastier the result.
Step 5: Chill Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting stage is where the real magic happens, as flavors meld and the bread transforms into the ultimate custardy base. Plus, you get to relax knowing breakfast is basically done!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while the oven warms up. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden and tempting. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing—this rest helps the pieces hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Garnishes
To brighten each slice, try scattering fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the top right before serving. A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or a dash of hot sauce is always welcome. For the ultimate finishing touch, a spoonful of tangy salsa or a dollop of sour cream on each piece adds fresh flavor and color.
Side Dishes
Pair the casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a citrusy green salad to balance out the richness. Buttery roasted potatoes or a bowl of seasonal berries complete the morning spread without overshadowing the Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole itself. Coffee, tea, and fresh-squeezed juice make it a true brunch feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling fancy, cut the casserole into neat squares and plate individually with a sprig of herbs on each. For a buffet, let guests help themselves straight from the dish—watch as the golden, cheesy top tempts everyone. For extra flair, serve with a toppings “bar” featuring diced avocados, crumbled feta, or crispy fried onions for some breakfast fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Simply cover the casserole dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate. The Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole stays fresh for up to 4 days. It’s an excellent meal-prep option for quick, satisfying breakfasts all week.
Freezing
To make your mornings even more convenient, slice cooled casserole portions and wrap them individually or store in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for an effortless breakfast that tastes just as cozy as the day it was baked.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes, covered lightly with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual pieces for about 1–2 minutes until warmed through, making it quick and easy to bring back that fresh-baked experience.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the sausage or bacon for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite meatless crumbles. The flavors and texture will still be wonderful, and you can get creative with extra veggies or a blend of cheeses.
What’s the best bread to use?
Day-old French or sourdough bread works best because it soaks up the egg mixture without turning mushy. In a pinch, any sturdy, crusty bread will do. Avoid soft sandwich bread, which can get too soggy.
Do I have to chill it overnight?
For that perfect custardy texture and even baking, an overnight rest is highly recommended. If you’re short on time, you can let it sit for at least 2 hours—but a full sleepover in the fridge guarantees the best result and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
Can I customize the cheese and seasonings?
Yes! While cheddar is classic, feel free to toss in Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for an extra kick. You can also play with your favorite herbs or spices to match your mood or occasion.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
Look for a golden brown top and a center that barely jiggles when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs. Letting it rest after baking helps set the perfect slice.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that wins at every family breakfast, holiday brunch, or lazy weekend morning, give Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole a try. There’s no better feeling than waking up to a meal that’s ready for the oven, especially when it’s as delicious and fuss-free as this. I hope it finds a permanent place in your breakfast repertoire!
Print
Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 9 hours (including overnight rest)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and convenient make-ahead dish perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Packed with savory flavors, this casserole features layers of bread, sausage (or bacon), cheese, and vegetables soaked in an egg mixture and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8 cups cubed bread (French or sourdough, day-old preferred)
Meat:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon, cooked and crumbled)
Cheese:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Vegetables:
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Egg Mixture:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer bread, cooked meat, cheese, bell peppers, and green onions in the dish.
- Mix the Egg Mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour over the casserole, pressing down gently.
- Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until set and golden.
- Serve: Let cool, slice, and enjoy!
Notes
- You can customize with spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite cheese.
- Freeze baked portions for convenient meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 215mg
