Description
A comforting and savory Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole featuring layers of buttery bread, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, crispy bacon, and a rich egg custard. Perfect for a make-ahead brunch or hearty breakfast, this casserole combines classic grilled cheese flavors with a satisfying baked egg dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Butter
- 8 slices white or sourdough bread
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Toppings
- 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- Chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Bread: Butter one side of each slice of bread thoroughly, then cut the slices diagonally into halves to create triangles. This will help the casserole layers absorb the egg mixture evenly.
- Layer the Casserole: Arrange half of the buttered bread slices in a single layer in the bottom of the baking dish, buttered side up. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and chopped bacon evenly over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread and toppings to create a layered casserole.
- Mix the Egg Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and cheese in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press the casserole down, encouraging the bread to absorb the egg custard thoroughly for a creamy texture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to help set the custard without drying out.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the casserole is golden brown on top and fully set in the center.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to firm up. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight to save time on busy mornings.
- For a meat variation, substitute cooked sausage in place of bacon.
- Omit the bacon for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Enhance flavor and nutrition by adding sautéed spinach, onions, or bell peppers in layers.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free bread to adjust the recipe for dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
