Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole For A Crowd

Name: Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole For A Crowd
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 10 slices of day-old bread, cubed; 12 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Quick Meals Collection

I love preparing my Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole for gatherings because it takes the stress out of mornings with a crowd. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying, but it's also incredibly easy to customize based on your guests' preferences. With layers of eggs, bread, cheese, and any number of delightful fillings, I can whip this up the night before and simply pop it in the oven when everyone is ready for breakfast. It’s become a favorite tradition in our home.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:45:36.139Z

When I first made this breakfast casserole, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare. I layered the ingredients in a baking dish, covered it, and let it sit overnight. The next morning, I pop it in the oven while my guests are still waking up, which fills the house with an irresistible aroma. I love how versatile it is – you can add vegetables or meats according to what you have on hand.

My secret is using day-old bread, which soaks up the egg mixture better and yields a fluffier texture. The addition of spices really elevates the flavor, and I often serve it with fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and freshness. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without the headache!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings
Can be prepared the night before to save time
Feeds a crowd without stress or fuss

Key Techniques for Success

To make a perfect breakfast casserole, it's crucial to let the bread soak up the egg mixture thoroughly. I recommend refrigerating it for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This ensures the bread absorbs the flavors and moisture, resulting in a tender, custardy texture. If you're in a hurry, you can let it soak for just 30 minutes, but you may miss that rich, fluffy finish.

When baking the casserole, placing it on the middle rack of a preheated oven helps achieve even cooking. Bake it uncovered for about 45 minutes to allow the top to become golden and the edges slightly crispy. If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the eggs finish cooking.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of cheese can significantly change the flavor profile of your casserole. Shredded cheddar gives a classic taste, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder flavor, or even a spicy pepper jack if you crave heat. Mixing cheeses can also create a more complex flavor; try combining different types for a gourmet breakfast dish.

For the fillings, you can easily customize based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Swap the breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Adding spinach or mushrooms can introduce extra nutrients and flavor; just be sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture before layering them into the casserole.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start.

Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

10 slices of day-old bread, cubed
12 large eggs
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
1 bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Make sure to check for any additional spices you would like to add!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole.

Prepare Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly. Top with cooked sausage, diced bell pepper, and onion. Pour the egg mixture over all the layers, then sprinkle cheese on top.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the casserole with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.

Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45 minutes, uncovered, or until the top is golden brown and the egg is set. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious casserole with a side of fruit or yogurt!

Pro Tips

Feel free to get creative by adding spinach, mushrooms, or other favorite toppings. You can also swap out the sausage for bacon or ham for different flavor profiles.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the unbaked casserole. Just wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time, checking for doneness.

To reheat individual portions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, and warm for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave servings for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious as this can sometimes lead to a chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful breakfast spread, serve your casserole with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad. A side of crispy hash browns or a fresh green juice can complement it well, making for a vibrant meal. I also like to drizzle hot sauce or serve it with salsa for an added kick.

To enhance the experience, consider setting up a toppings bar with fresh herbs, avocado slices, or even a dollop of sour cream. This interactive element lets guests personalize their plates, making each serving unique and tailored to their tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes, that's the best part! Prepare it in advance and refrigerate overnight.

→ Can I use gluten-free bread?

Absolutely! Just substitute with your favorite gluten-free bread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake from frozen, increasing the baking time.