Bacon Breakfast Bake

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast dish that’s perfect for a crowd, this Bacon Breakfast Bake is just the ticket. With layers of bread, crispy bacon, and a flavorful egg mixture, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with bacon, cheese, and eggs, this breakfast bake is a satisfying start to your day.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the night before and bake in the morning for an easy breakfast.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd at brunch or breakfast.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite bread and add-ins like veggies or different cheeses.

• Cuisine Type: American
• Servings: Makes about 6-8 servings
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)

Ingredients:

• 8 slices bread, your choice
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 7 slices bacon
• 4 stalks green onions
• 1 medium tomato
• 6 medium eggs
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup milk

Directions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sandwiches:
   • Butter the bread slices. Arrange the buttered bread on a work surface. Top half of the slices with bacon, half of the green onions, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices to make sandwiches.
   • Cut the sandwiches in half and arrange them in a casserole dish. Top with sliced tomato.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and milk. Pour the mixture evenly over the sandwiches in the casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate for 6-24 hours.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the casserole with the remaining cheese and green onions. Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until the center is set.
5. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the casserole set for 10 minutes. Cut into serving pieces and serve warm.

Variations:

• Veggie Lover’s: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach to the sandwiches for extra veggies.
• Different Cheese: Try using Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.

Equipment:

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Casserole dish
• Spatula

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What to Serve with This Recipe:

This bacon breakfast bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of hash browns. It’s also great with a glass of orange juice or a cup of coffee.

Tips:

• Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s nice and crispy for the best texture.
• Overnight Soak: Let the casserole sit in the refrigerator overnight to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture.
• Check Doneness: Make sure the center of the casserole is fully set before removing it from the oven.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?

A: Yes, any bread will work, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or a sturdy white bread.

Q: Can I make this casserole without bacon?

A: Yes, you can omit the bacon or substitute it with cooked sausage or a meat-free alternative.

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

A: The casserole is done when the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Approximate Nutrition Information:

• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 16g