Cheesy Bacon Breakfast Casserole

A delicious, rich and fluffy breakfast casserole loaded with crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, melted cheddar cheese, and a creamy, savory filling. It has a golden, cheesy top and soft, tender center. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 40–50 minutes Total Time: 55–65 minutes Servings: 8–10 Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• 12 large eggs

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1½ cups cooked bacon, chopped

• 1 cup whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup diced onion

• ½ cup diced red bell pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish or disposable aluminum foil tray with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the bacon

1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.

2. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Allow it to cool slightly.

4. Chop into small bite-sized pieces.

5. Reserve a little bacon for sprinkling over the top.

Step 3: Prepare the vegetables

1. Dice the onion and red bell pepper into small pieces.

2. Melt a little butter in a skillet.

3. Sauté the vegetables for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

4. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 4: Prepare the egg mixture

1. Crack all 12 eggs into a large mixing bowl.

2. Add the milk and heavy cream.

3. Whisk until everything is well combined.

4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika.

5. Add the melted butter.

6. Whisk again until smooth.

Step 5: Add the cheese and bacon

1. Add 1½ cups cheddar cheese.

2. Add the mozzarella cheese.

3. Stir in most of the cooked bacon.

4. Add the sautéed onion and bell pepper.

5. Mix gently until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Assemble the casserole

1. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish.

2. Spread everything evenly.

3. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese over the top.

4. Add the reserved bacon pieces.

5. Sprinkle a little paprika over the surface for color.

Step 7: Bake

1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven.

2. Bake uncovered for approximately 40–50 minutes.

3. Check the center with a food thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C).

4. The top should be golden brown, the cheese melted, and the center set.

5. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil.

Step 8: Rest and serve

1. Remove from the oven.

2. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes.

3. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top if desired.

4. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Questions & Answers (Q&A)

Q1: Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes! Prepare the entire mixture, pour it into the greased baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the following morning. Allow a little extra baking time if it goes directly from the refrigerator into the oven.

Q2: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon works well. Cook it until crispy before adding it to the casserole.

Q3: Can I add potatoes?

Yes! Add 2 cups of thawed hash browns or cooked diced potatoes. Make sure excess moisture is removed before mixing.

Q4: Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Swiss, and pepper jack are all delicious options.

Q5: How do I know when the casserole is done?

The edges should be golden, the center should no longer jiggle like liquid, and the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Q6: Can I make it without heavy cream?

Yes. Replace the heavy cream with an additional ½ cup of whole milk.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months for best quality.

• Reheating: Microwave individual portions until heated through, or reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven.

Q8: Can I add sausage?

Yes! Replace some of the bacon with cooked breakfast sausage, or use both for an extra hearty casserole.

Q9: Why is my casserole watery?

This can happen if vegetables release too much moisture or if frozen potatoes aren’t thawed and drained. Sauté vegetables first and remove excess liquid.

Q10: What can I serve with this casserole?

Try serving it with:

• Buttery toast or croissants

• Fresh fruit salad

• Pancakes or waffles

• Roasted breakfast potatoes

• Fresh orange juice or coffee

Tips for the Best Breakfast Casserole

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture.

• Cook bacon until crispy before adding it.

• Don’t overbake, or the eggs may become rubbery.

• Let the casserole rest before slicing.

• Season carefully because bacon and cheese already contain salt.

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 10 servings.

Nutrition varies depending on the bacon, cheese, and cream used.

Final Result: A beautiful, golden, cheesy bacon and egg breakfast casserole with crispy bacon throughout, a creamy fluffy center, and plenty of melted cheese on top. Perfect for feeding a crowd!