This Cheesy Bacon and Potato Breakfast Casserole is a warm hug in a dish! Loaded with crispy bacon, golden potatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Who can resist the smell of bacon in the morning? I love making this easy casserole ahead of time. Just pop it in the oven, and soon, breakfast magic is happening! 🥓🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon brings a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or veggie bacon can be great substitutes. They may not have the same crunch but offer that smoky taste!
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes for this casserole, as they hold their texture well. If you’re short on time, frozen hash browns work just fine too—just check on the cooking time.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a nice kick. If you want to mix it up, try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some heat! Vegan cheese can be a suitable option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Onion: Onions add depth but can be left out if you’re not a fan. For a milder flavor, green onions or shallots are great alternatives.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the right texture for your casserole is all about the egg mixture. Here’s how to make sure it sets well:
- Whisk the eggs and milk well, so everything is mixed. This helps create a fluffy texture when baked.
- Don’t rush the baking—make sure it bakes for the full 30-35 minutes. You want it puffed up and slightly golden.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up before slicing.
This step is key to avoiding a runny casserole and ensuring each slice holds together nicely!
How to Make Cheesy Bacon And Potato Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 3 medium potatoes)
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole requires about 15 minutes for the preparation and 35-40 minutes for baking. Overall, you’re looking at roughly 55 minutes from start to finish, plus a little resting time before serving. Perfect for a stress-free breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, get your 9×9 inch baking dish ready by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
If you choose to use onion, sauté the diced potatoes and chopped onion in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are tender and slightly golden. Make sure to drain any excess oil to avoid a soggy casserole.
3. Layer the Base:
Spread the cooked potatoes and onion evenly in the prepared dish. This will be the hearty foundation of your casserole.
4. Add Bacon and Cheese:
Now sprinkle the crumbled bacon and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Yum already, right?
5. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until fully combined. This mixture will give your casserole a fluffy consistency.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the casserole dish. Make sure everything is nicely coated to ensure even cooking.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top looks slightly golden and inviting.
8. Melt More Cheese:
Once baked, take it out and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for about 5 more minutes to let that cheese melt beautifully.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Let it cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like, then slice up and serve warm. Everyone will love this comforting and delicious breakfast treat!
This casserole brings together crispy bacon, creamy eggs, tender potatoes, and sharp cheese in every delicious bite. Perfect for your next brunch or breakfast gathering!
Can I Use Frozen Hash Browns Instead of Fresh Potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns are a convenient substitute! Just spread them evenly in the baking dish without the need for sautéing. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider adding some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor. You can also replace bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative for that smoky taste.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil while reheating to retain moisture.
