10 Practical Breakfast Casserole For A Crowd Without Stress

Planning breakfast for a crowd doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are ten practical breakfast casseroles that will make hosting easy and fun. From classic egg bakes to sweet French toast, these dishes are not only delicious but also simple to prepare ahead of time. Picture the aroma of a savory sausage and spinach delight or the comfort of a cheesy bacon hash wafting through your home. Ready to impress your guests with minimal stress? Let’s get started!

Classic Egg and Cheese Bake

A Classic Egg and Cheese Bake is the perfect dish when you need to serve a delicious breakfast to a crowd. This comforting casserole combines fluffy eggs, creamy cheese, and savory bread for a dish that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent choice for any brunch or breakfast gathering. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or a small brunch party. The combination of eggs, cheese, and bread creates a satisfying and hearty meal that can be customized with additional ingredients like vegetables or meats to suit your taste preferences.

Follow this recipe to create a delightful breakfast casserole that will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon butter

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the casserole will bake evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the butter to prevent sticking and to add a bit of flavor.
3. Mix the Eggs and Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This egg mixture is the base of your casserole.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring that all pieces are soaked. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions evenly over the top.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps the bread absorb the egg mixture, leading to a custard-like texture when baked.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps it firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.

Extra Tips:

For a personalized touch, consider adding ingredients such as cooked bacon, sausage, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. These additions can enhance the flavor and make the dish even more filling.

Additionally, using day-old bread is recommended as it absorbs the egg mixture better, but if you’re using fresh bread, toasting it lightly can help achieve a similar effect.

Finally, this dish can be prepared the night before; simply cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast option.

Savory Sausage and Spinach Delight

This Savory Sausage and Spinach Delight is the perfect breakfast casserole for a crowd, combining the heartiness of sausage with the nutritious touch of spinach. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply looking to impress your family with a delicious morning meal, this recipe is bound to be a hit.

The combination of savory sausage, fresh spinach, and melted cheese baked to perfection makes this dish both satisfying and flavorful. Designed to serve 4-6 people, this casserole can easily be prepared the night before and baked in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

The recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a wholesome and tasty meal. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish isn’t only delicious but also convenient for busy mornings.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people)

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups cubed day-old bread
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to guarantee it’s ready for baking once your casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Toss in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using) until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the cubed bread evenly. Layer the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by the spinach and onion mixture. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring it covers all ingredients. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing into portions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips

For best results, use day-old bread as it absorbs the egg mixture better, creating a richer texture. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider using spicy sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.

This casserole can be prepared the night before; simply cover and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning. This dish also reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers.

Traditional French Toast Bake

Traditional French Toast Bake is a delightful breakfast casserole that’s perfect for serving a crowd. This dish combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a casserole, making it easy to prepare and serve. The dish is rich, flavorful, and satisfying, featuring layers of bread soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, then baked to perfection.

It’s ideal for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or any occasion where you need to feed a group without spending too much time in the kitchen. This breakfast casserole is versatile and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. You can add fruits, nuts, or even a touch of maple syrup to enhance the flavors.

The preparation can be done the night before, allowing the bread to absorb all the delicious flavors, and simply baked in the morning, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings. Whether you’re hosting family or friends, this Traditional French Toast Bake is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen berries (optional)
• Butter, for greasing the baking dish
• Maple syrup, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Begin by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and guarantee easy serving.
2. Cut the Bread: Cut the loaf of French bread into 1-inch cubes. Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press the bread down, assuring it absorbs the liquid. Sprinkle the optional chopped nuts and berries over the top if using.
5. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture.
6. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake the Casserole: Remove the plastic wrap and bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled over the top.

Extra Tips:

For best results, use day-old or slightly stale bread as it will absorb the custard mixture better without becoming too mushy. If you prefer a sweeter casserole, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving.

The casserole can be customized with different toppings such as sliced bananas, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra indulgence. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the casserole in the morning and let it soak for just an hour before baking, although overnight soaking is recommended for maximum flavor development.

Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata

The Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata is an ideal dish for those looking to serve a crowd with something both hearty and nutritious. This casserole is loaded with colorful vegetables and savory cheese, making it a satisfying meal that can be prepared the night before and baked to perfection the next morning.

With layers of crusty bread soaked in a rich egg mixture, complemented by the freshness of the veggies, this strata is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family breakfast. Designed to serve 4-6 people, this recipe leverages the flavors of seasonal vegetables, bringing together an easy-to-make yet impressively delicious dish.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply want to enjoy a leisurely weekend breakfast, this Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful combination of textures and flavors that this casserole offers.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 loaf of crusty sourdough bread, cubed
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Butter for greasing the baking dish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. Cube the sourdough bread and set it aside, then chop the spinach, red bell pepper, zucchini, onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the red bell pepper, zucchini, and cook for another 5 minutes until softened. Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes, cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Strata: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined. Place half of the cubed bread into the greased baking dish, then layer with half of the sautéed vegetables and half of the cheddar cheese.

Repeat with the remaining bread, vegetables, and cheese.

4. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and vegetables in the baking dish. Press down gently with a spatula to affirm the bread soaks up the egg mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Bake the Strata: Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Then, bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Veggie-Packed Breakfast Strata, consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like thyme or basil before baking. You can also substitute or add other vegetables such as mushrooms or asparagus, depending on what’s in season or your personal preference.

If you’re preparing this for a special occasion and want to make it extra indulgent, try incorporating a different cheese like Gruyère or feta for a unique twist. Remember to let the strata rest before serving; this allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice.

Breakfast Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Breakfast Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the perfect dish for hosting brunch or feeding a hungry family on a lazy weekend morning. This sweet and decadent casserole combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a one-pan breakfast bake.

Imagine biting into a warm, gooey slice that’s rich with cinnamon and sugar, balanced with a creamy custard-like filling. It’s an irresistible treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ideal for a crowd, this breakfast casserole isn’t only delicious but also simple to prepare. It requires minimal prep time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests or family instead of spending all morning in the kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a special holiday breakfast or just want to make an ordinary morning extraordinary, this Breakfast Cinnamon Roll Casserole will definitely delight and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients (serves 4-6 people):

• 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• ½ cup of maple syrup
• ½ cup of chopped pecans (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the casserole cooks evenly and achieves the perfect texture.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Set aside the icing packets for later use.
3. Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. Spread the quartered cinnamon rolls evenly across the bottom of the dish.
4. Mix the Custard: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls in the baking dish, ensuring each piece is coated. If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top for added crunch and flavor.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Add the Icing: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Drizzle the reserved icing over the top before serving for that classic cinnamon roll finish.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom to the custard mixture. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of maple syrup.

You can also prepare this dish the night before and store it in the refrigerator; simply bake it fresh in the morning. For a touch of fruitiness, try adding sliced apples or raisins to the cinnamon roll pieces before baking.

Enjoy your breakfast casserole warm and watch it become a family favorite!

Ham & Broccoli Bake

This breakfast casserole isn’t only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time in the oven, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The Ham & Broccoli Bake can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free morning with your guests. Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a casual brunch with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 cups cooked, diced ham
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve.
3. Cook the Broccoli: In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the diced ham evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the cooked broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Add the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the ham, broccoli, and cheese in the baking dish, guaranteeing that everything is evenly covered.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Ham & Broccoli Bake!

Extra Tips:

To add more depth of flavor, consider sautéing some onions or mushrooms along with the broccoli.

You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with other types like Swiss or mozzarella for a different taste.

If you want to prepare this dish the night before, simply assemble everything except the egg mixture, cover it, and refrigerate.

In the morning, whip up the eggs, pour them over, and bake as directed. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy mornings when you want to focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

Berry Delight Overnight Oats

Breakfast casseroles are a fantastic way to feed a crowd, providing a hearty, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for gatherings or family breakfasts. One delightful twist on the classic breakfast casserole is the Berry Delight Overnight Oats. This dish combines the creamy texture of overnight oats with the sweet and tart flavors of fresh berries, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Ideal for those who want to prepare breakfast ahead of time, this casserole can be assembled the night before and simply baked in the morning, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

The Berry Delight Overnight Oats casserole isn’t only a crowd-pleaser but also customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries, this recipe can be adapted to your liking.

The combination of rolled oats, milk, and yogurt provides a creamy base, while chia seeds add a nutritional boost. With a hint of sweetness from honey or maple syrup and a touch of vanilla, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a nutritious and delicious way to start the day with friends and family.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Fold in the Berries: Gently fold in 1.5 cups of the mixed berries into the oat mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. Pour the oat and berry mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
4. Top with Nuts and Berries: Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of mixed berries and the chopped nuts (if using) over the top of the casserole for added texture and flavor.
5. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors to meld together.
6. Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) the next morning. Remove the plastic wrap or lid and place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is slightly golden and the oats are set.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm as is, or with an additional drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt on the side.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using vanilla almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. If you prefer your casserole sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of honey or maple syrup.

Feel free to experiment with different berries or dried fruits to suit your taste. For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds. This dish can be prepared up to two days in advance, making it even more convenient for busy mornings or entertaining guests.

Cozy Cheesy Bacon Hash

Cozy Cheesy Bacon Hash is a delicious and hearty breakfast casserole perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese, creating a savory meal that everyone will love.

It’s an ideal recipe for family gatherings, brunch parties, or any occasion where you need to serve a filling and satisfying breakfast to a group of hungry people.

This casserole isn’t only flavorful but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of ingredients provides a balance of textures and flavors, from the creaminess of the cheese to the crunch of the bacon.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to allow for some customization based on your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 8 slices of bacon
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cups frozen hash browns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that the casserole will cook evenly.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, crumbled bacon, frozen hash browns, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly.
5. Prepare Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread the hash brown mixture evenly in the dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure it covers the entire surface.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

When making Cozy Cheesy Bacon Hash, you can prepare some components ahead of time to save on morning prep. Cook the bacon and sauté the vegetables the night before, storing them in the refrigerator.

This way, you can quickly assemble the casserole in the morning. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes or using spicy sausage instead of bacon.

Additionally, for a healthier twist, substitute turkey bacon or add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste, and have fun experimenting with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.

Apple-Cranberry Breakfast Casserole

Apple-Cranberry Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for feeding a crowd during breakfast or brunch gatherings. Combining the natural sweetness of apples with the tartness of cranberries, this casserole is both delicious and festive. The warm spices and custardy bread base make it a comforting choice for any occasion, especially during the fall and winter months when these fruits are in season.

This dish not only provides a wonderful blend of flavors but also offers the convenience of being prepared in advance. With a preparation time of just under an hour, it allows you to focus on hosting or preparing other components of your meal. The following recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering or family breakfast.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 6 cups of cubed bread (preferably day-old or slightly stale)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups of milk
• ½ cup of heavy cream
• ⅓ cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1 cup of fresh or dried cranberries
• ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish (approximately 9×13 inches) with butter or cooking spray. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared dish.
2. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are moistened. Gently press down the bread so it absorbs the custard mixture. Scatter the chopped apples and cranberries over the top, evenly distributing them.
4. Add Optional Nuts: If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the fruit layer for added crunch and flavor.
5. Bake the Casserole: Drizzle the melted butter over the entire dish. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the custard set further and make it easier to slice and serve.

Extra Tips: For the best results, use a sturdy bread such as brioche, challah, or a French baguette, as they hold up well to the custard mixture without becoming too soggy. If you prefer a more tart flavor, opt for fresh cranberries; for a sweeter touch, dried cranberries work beautifully. You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it; simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the bake time if baking directly from the fridge.

Southwest Chorizo Skillet Bake

Southwest Chorizo Skillet Bake is a hearty and flavorful breakfast casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish combines spicy chorizo sausage with fresh vegetables, creamy eggs, and melty cheese, all baked together in one skillet for an easy and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, family breakfasts, or any time you need to serve a delicious meal to several people without too much hassle.

The addition of southwestern flavors like bell peppers, onions, and spices gives this casserole a zesty kick that complements the richness of the chorizo and eggs. Best of all, it can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests rather than spending it all in the kitchen. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a balanced meal. Below is the recipe for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chorizo sausage, casing removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Cook Chorizo: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the egg mixture over the top, stirring gently to combine everything evenly.
5. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the egg mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeño, and avocado if desired. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a can of drained black beans or a cup of frozen corn to the vegetable mix.

Make sure to use an oven-safe skillet to avoid any mishaps when transferring the dish from the stovetop to the oven. If you like it spicier, you can adjust the amount of chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

This dish can also be made a day in advance; simply prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to heat through.

Enjoy your Southwest Chorizo Skillet Bake with warm tortillas on the side for a complete meal!