This Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole is a spicy twist on your morning meal! With creamy cheese, bacon, and crunchy jalapeños, it’s a flavor-packed dish that brings a kick to breakfast.
Who knew breakfast could be this exciting? I love serving this casserole on lazy weekends. It makes enough to share, but let’s be honest, I usually keep a big slice just for myself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Fresh eggs are crucial for this recipe, providing structure and richness. If you’re looking for a cholesterol-friendly option, you can use egg whites or egg substitutes. Make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using liquid substitutes.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you can opt for low-fat milk, almond milk, or even cream for a richer dish. Each will slightly alter the flavor, but they all work great!
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds a delightful creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, use Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese can also be used for a dairy-free version, keeping the dish creamy while catering to dietary needs.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for its strong flavor. Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra spice. You can also use dairy-free cheese alternatives if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky, crunchy element. You can use turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute to reduce fat. For a vegetarian version, try sautéed mushrooms for a similar umami flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Fluffy and Not Dense?
To get a light and fluffy casserole, focus on mixing the egg mixture just enough. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture. Here’s how to make it fluffy:
- Whisk eggs and milk until combined but do not whip them too much. Just enough to break up the yolks is perfect!
- When folding in cream cheese and shredded cheeses, do it gently to avoid deflating the air you’ve whipped into the eggs.
- If you’re using a glass baking dish, remember that it holds heat differently. Keep an eye on your casserole as it cooks to avoid overbaking.
Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2-3 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to bake. So, you’ll need about 50 minutes total before you can dig into this delicious breakfast casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large bowl, crack open the 8 eggs and pour in the 1 cup of milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and frothy. This will add some nice air to your casserole!
3. Mix in the Cream Cheese and Cheddar:
Next, gently fold in the cubed cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where all the creaminess comes from! Then add in half of the crumbled bacon, half of the sliced jalapeños, and half of the chopped green onions. Stir until everything is mixed but be gentle so you keep that fluffiness.
4. Pour and Spread:
Now, carefully pour the egg mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
5. Add Toppings:
On top of the egg mixture, sprinkle the remaining bacon, jalapeño slices, and green onions. This will give you a nice presentation and extra flavor.
6. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! It’s done when the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set and make slicing easier. Cut into pieces and serve warm. You can add extra green onions or jalapeño slices on top for an extra kick!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and spicy Jalapeño Popper Breakfast Casserole! It’s sure to become a weekend favorite.
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If you prefer to use egg substitutes, just make sure to measure according to the package instructions. Generally, 1/4 cup of liquid egg substitute is equivalent to one large egg. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How Spicy Is This Casserole?
The level of spiciness depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you keep the seeds in or remove them. For a milder flavor, stick to one jalapeño and make sure to remove the seeds and membranes. You can also adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold right from the fridge.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
