Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I opened the refrigerator, a treasure trove of ingredients caught my eye, and I knew I had to create something special. This Cheesy Egg Bake is my ultimate breakfast hero, transforming simple eggs, cheese, and a sprinkle of creativity into a filling morning feast. Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it’s also a delightful crowd-pleaser perfect for both brunch gatherings and busy weekdays. With its warm, cheesy goodness mingling with savory bits of ham and crisp vegetables, you’ll find each slice just as comforting as it is satisfying. Ready to unleash a wholesome and delicious start to your day? Let’s dive into this kitchen adventure that promises to make mornings memorable! Why Is This Cheesy Egg Bake Special? Simplicity Reimagined: This easy-to-make dish transforms everyday ingredients into a delightful breakfast casserole that anyone can prepare in a jiffy. Delicious Versatility: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or cheeses, tailoring it to your taste. Perfect for Sharing: Its generous portions make it ideal for brunch gatherings or family meals, ensuring everyone leaves happy. Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning for hassle-free mornings! Textures That Comfort: With a soft custard-like center and a golden, cheesy crust, every bite is a comforting experience that’s hard to resist. Elevate your breakfast game today with this Cheesy Egg Bake! It’s just as satisfying as a light salad or a serving of Baked Asparagus Fries on the side. Cheesy Egg Bake Ingredients For the Egg Base • Eggs – The heart of this dish, providing the structure and fluffiness needed for a perfect bake. • Milk – Adds moisture and creamy richness, ensuring the egg bake remains tender. • Salt – Elevates the flavor of the dish, enhancing all the delicious ingredients. For the Cheesy Goodness • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Infuses rich, cheesy flavor and creates a golden crust on top. • Alternative Cheese Options – Try swapping cheddar for Swiss or mozzarella if you’re looking for a different flavor profile in your Cheesy Egg Bake! For Savory Add-Ins • Diced Ham or Cooked Bacon – Provides savory, smoky goodness, balancing the dish’s richness. • Onion (finely chopped) – Contributes a mild sweetness and aroma, making the bake more flavorful. • Green Bell Pepper (chopped) – Adds a fresh, crisp texture and bright color for visual appeal. • Sliced Mushrooms – Introduces earthy tones, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. For Seasoning • Black Pepper – Adds a hint of warmth and complexity, complementing the richness of the dish. • Garlic Powder – Lends a savory punch, blending seamlessly into the bake without overpowering it. • Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing your veggies, preventing them from sticking and adding a fruity flavor. For Baking • Butter – Used to grease the baking dish, ensuring your Cheesy Egg Bake comes out effortlessly. With this delightful mix of ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a comforting and delicious Cheesy Egg Bake that will soon become a cherished favorite in your home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Egg Bake Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that your Cheesy Egg Bake cooks evenly and develops a golden-brown crust. While the oven heats, prepare your baking dish to streamline your cooking process. Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial as it prevents the Cheesy Egg Bake from sticking to the dish, allowing for easy removal when it’s ready to serve. Use a paper towel to spread the butter evenly for complete coverage. Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add finely chopped onions, chopped green bell peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, stirring frequently. This step enhances their flavors and ensures a soft texture in your bake. Step 4: Whisk the Egg Mixture In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 8 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder until smooth and slightly frothy. Aim for a well-combined mixture that will create a custard-like base for your Cheesy Egg Bake, ensuring a rich and fluffy texture. Step 5: Combine Ingredients Stir in the sautéed vegetables, diced ham or cooked bacon, and 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Mix until everything is evenly distributed throughout, creating a colorful and flavorful blend that forms the filling of your Cheesy Egg Bake. Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish Pour the combined mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures that the Cheesy Egg Bake cooks uniformly and sets nicely. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors before moving on to the next step. Step 7: Add Cheese Topping Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. This layer will melt beautifully during baking, creating a deliciously cheesy crust that enhances the experience of your Cheesy Egg Bake. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; it’s ready when the center is set and the top is a gorgeous golden-brown. You can check doneness by inserting a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Step 9: Cool and Slice Once baked, remove the Cheesy Egg Bake from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This will help it set further, making it easier to slice. After cooling slightly, cut into squares for serving, filling your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. Step 10: Serve and Enjoy Serve the Cheesy Egg Bake warm, and watch it become the star of your breakfast or brunch table. This dish is perfect on its own or garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, adding a delightful touch to each comforting slice. Cheesy Egg Bake Variations Feel free to embrace your culinary creativity and make this Cheesy Egg Bake truly your own! Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version that maintains creaminess. You could also try a plant-based cheese to keep it deliciously cheesy. Vegetarian Delight: Omit the ham or bacon altogether and load up on veggies like spinach, zucchini, or roasted red peppers, ensuring a colorful and nutritious twist. Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture for a delightful heat that elevates your brunch game. Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or dill for a fragrant touch that brightens the flavors—perfect for a refreshing twist! Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, feta, or pepper jack for varied textures and flavors—each offering a unique cheesy experience. Sausage Substitute: Swap out ham for cooked sausage or turkey for a savory option that’s both hearty and flavorful. Each bite will be packed with satisfying notes! Crusty Topping: For added texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a delightful crunch and beautiful golden finish. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the mixture the night before and let the flavors meld in the fridge. In the morning, just pour it into the dish and bake for an effortless breakfast! To complement your Cheesy Egg Bake, serve it alongside some flavorful Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks or a refreshing side of Baked Asparagus Fries. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Expert Tips for Cheesy Egg Bake Doneness Check: Always bake until fully set in the center; test with a knife. It should come out clean to ensure perfection in your Cheesy Egg Bake. Whisk with Care: Avoid over-whisking your egg mixture to prevent rubbery eggs. Aim for a smooth blend, but don’t beat the air out of it! Vegetable Choices: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition, but make sure they’re well-drained to avoid a soggy bake. Cheese Variety: Change things up by using a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella or Swiss, to personalize your Cheesy Egg Bake to your family’s liking. Storage Savvy: For make-ahead magic, cool completely, store tightly in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months for quick breakfasts later. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Egg Bake preparations are perfect for the busy home cook looking to save time! You can chop the vegetables, whisk the egg mixture, and combine all ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the assembled dish in the refrigerator, tightly covered, to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it into the oven straight from the fridge—there’s no need to let it come to room temperature first. This method ensures that your Cheesy Egg Bake emerges just as delicious and fluffy as if you made it fresh that morning. Enjoy the convenience of having a delightful breakfast ready to go without the last-minute rush! What to Serve with Cheesy Egg Bake? A hearty breakfast doesn’t have to stop at the egg bake; elevate your brunch experience with these delightful pairings! Fresh Green Salad: A light, zesty salad dressed with vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the rich egg bake, refreshing each bite. Avocado Toast: Creamy, buttery avocado on crusty bread complements the cheesy goodness, creating a satisfying texture combination. Crispy Hash Browns: Perfectly golden, crispy hash browns add an irresistible crunch, offering a hearty side that’s beloved by all. Fruit Platter: Seasonal fruits bring a burst of sweetness, cleansing the palate between bites of savory, cheesy egg bake. Savory Sausages: Juicy breakfast sausages add a savory depth that pairs well with the casserole’s creaminess, enhancing the meal. Homemade Scones: Fluffy, buttery scones provide a delightful treat, perfect for those who like a bit of baked goodness with their brunch. Chilled Orange Juice: A refreshing glass of o.j. awakens your senses and balances the dish’s richness, making for a classic pairing. Herbed Yogurt Dip: Creamy yogurt mixed with fresh herbs brings a cool, tangy aspect, excellent for a light and tasty side. Berry Smoothie: A vibrant berry smoothie adds a fruity twist, making it a fun drink option that appeals to everyone at the table. Chocolate Croissants: For a touch of indulgence, these flaky treats contrast nicely against the hearty egg bake, perfect for sweet lovers. How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Egg Bake Fridge: Cool the Cheesy Egg Bake completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cheesy Egg Bake in individual portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheating in Oven: When ready to enjoy, reheat the Cheesy Egg Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring a yummy texture. Reheating in Microwave: For quicker options, microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but note this may create a softer texture. Enjoy this comforting dish any time! Cheesy Egg Bake Recipe FAQs What type of eggs should I use for this Cheesy Egg Bake? Absolutely, for the best results, I recommend using large eggs as they provide the perfect structure and fluffiness for your egg bake. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute some whole eggs with egg whites without compromising the taste much. How should I store leftovers of the Cheesy Egg Bake? To keep your Cheesy Egg Bake fresh, allow it to cool completely before covering tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I suggest using the oven to preserve the texture. Can I freeze the Cheesy Egg Bake? Yes! For long-term storage, freeze the Cheesy Egg Bake in individual portions. Simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results. Why is my Cheesy Egg Bake not cooking evenly? Very! If you notice that your bake isn’t cooking evenly, it could be due to an uneven oven temperature or overcrowding in the baking dish. Always ensure you’ve preheated the oven adequately and evenly spread the mixture in the baking dish to allow for uniform cooking. Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe? Certainly! This Cheesy Egg Bake can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the ham or bacon and add more veggies like spinach or kale. If allergies are a concern, feel free to switch to dairy-free cheese or plant-based milk alternatives, keeping the flavors intact! How can I tell if my Cheesy Egg Bake is fully cooked? To test the doneness of your Cheesy Egg Bake, insert a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go! If there’s still wet egg mixture on the knife, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Watching for a golden-brown top is also a great visual cue that it’s nearly ready! Cheesy Egg Bake: Your New Favorite Weekend Breakfast Delight No ratings yet Discover the Cheesy Egg Bake, a delightful breakfast casserole that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting morning feast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Egg Base8 large Eggs1 cup Milk1 teaspoon SaltFor the Cheesy Goodness1.5 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese0.5 cup Alternative Cheese Options Swiss or mozzarellaFor Savory Add-Ins1 cup Diced Ham or Cooked Bacon1 medium Onion (finely chopped)1 medium Green Bell Pepper (chopped)1 cup Sliced MushroomsFor Seasoning0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder1 tablespoon Olive Oil For sautéingFor Baking1 tablespoon Butter For greasing the baking dish Equipment OvenSkilletMixing Bowlbaking dishSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Egg BakePreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, green bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.Stir in the sautéed vegetables, diced ham or bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture.Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden-brown.Allow to cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg NotesThis dish is perfect on its own or garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
