Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

This Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish packed with nutritious veggies, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs. Perfect for special occasions or busy mornings, this casserole allows you to enjoy a satisfying breakfast without the hassle of cooking from scratch each day. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile option for everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this casserole in no time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or cheeses based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this flavorful breakfast that’s loaded with nutrients.
• Great for Gatherings: An ideal dish for brunches, holidays, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help streamline the process of making your Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch casserole dish
• Medium skillet
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: The right size ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables quickly while retaining their flavor.
• Whisk: Helps blend the egg mixture smoothly for a fluffy texture.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows ample space to combine ingredients without spills.

Ingredients

This Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is loaded with veggies, cheese, and eggs. It’s very easy to make and is a perfect hearty breakfast for Christmas morning!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup red onions (chopped) (skip red onions if you’re following a keto diet)
• 2 cups broccoli (chopped)
• 3 cups mushrooms (sliced or chopped)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 cups fresh spinach

For the Egg Mixture

• 6 eggs
• ½ cup almond milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 1 cup cheddar and mozzarella cheese (mix)
• Parsley (for garnishing (optional))

How to Make Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F. Spray a 9×9-inch casserole dish with a good coating of cooking spray, then set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a medium skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the olive oil.
2. Once heated, add the onions and cook until soft.
3. Add all remaining veggies—broccoli, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and spinach—and sauté until tender.
4. Transfer this vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

While your veggies are cooking:
1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, almond milk, garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed veggies in the baking dish. Gently stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese mix evenly over the top of your casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 40 minutes. Afterward:
1. Remove foil.
2. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the egg is cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Now you have a delightful Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole ready to enjoy at any time!

How to Serve Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

This Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, here are some great serving suggestions.

For a Festive Brunch

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy side that complements the casserole.

With a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a fresh crunch alongside your casserole.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar pairs well with the flavors of the casserole, adding a savory element to your meal.

For a Cozy Dinner

• Roasted Veggies: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots and zucchini provide an earthy flavor that balances the dish’s richness.
• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread for dipping into any leftover egg mixture, enhancing each bite.

How to Perfect Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Creating the ideal Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is simple with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish.
• Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Sauté vegetables until just tender; they will continue cooking in the oven, preventing them from becoming mushy.
• Mix Cheeses for Flavor: Combining different cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella provides depth and creaminess to your casserole.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes helps it set better for easier serving.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand for added flexibility.
• Experiment with Spices: Adding herbs or spices like paprika or Italian seasoning can elevate the taste profile of your breakfast casserole.

Best Side Dishes for Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread makes for a delightful addition that’s both trendy and satisfying.
2. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a comforting crunch that pairs perfectly with fluffy eggs and veggies.
3. Breakfast Sausages: Turkey or chicken sausages provide hearty protein and a savory balance to the dish.
4. Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl packed with fruits can serve as a refreshing side with nutritional benefits.
5. Chia Pudding: This healthy option adds texture and is easy to prepare in advance—just soak chia seeds overnight!
6. Cinnamon Rolls: Sweet cinnamon rolls can bring a touch of indulgence to your brunch spread while complementing savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the Veggie Prep: Not chopping or pre-cooking veggies properly can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure they are chopped uniformly and sautéed until tender before adding them to the casserole.
• Overlooking Seasoning: Failing to season the egg mixture can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and optional spices like mustard powder for an extra kick.
• Using the Wrong Baking Dish: Choosing an unsuitable baking dish can affect cooking time and texture. A 9×9-inch dish is ideal for even baking; avoid using glass if you’re baking at higher temperatures.
• Not Letting It Rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool for at least 5 minutes for better slicing and serving.
• Ignoring Leftover Storage: Not storing leftovers correctly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers in the fridge or freezer to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for best results.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover and warm gently, checking regularly to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing a Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole.

Can I customize my Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables, swap cheeses, or include cooked chicken or turkey for added protein.

How long does it take to prepare a Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole?

Prep time takes around 10 minutes, while cook time is approximately 50 minutes. Overall, expect about an hour from start to finish.

What vegetables work best in a breakfast casserole?

You can use a variety of veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or kale. Just ensure they are chopped small enough for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking in the morning.

Final Thoughts

This Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It’s perfect for busy mornings or special occasions like Christmas brunch. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a hearty breakfast that everyone will love!