10 Brilliant Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole Ideas You Will Wish You Tried Sooner

I can’t express how much breakfast casseroles have transformed my hectic mornings.

Picture waking up to the delightful aroma of a hearty, ready-to-bake dish with just a little prep done the night before.

From savory sausage and egg delights to sweet cinnamon roll treats, these casseroles have something for every palate.

As a fan of easy mornings, I’ve found these recipes to be absolute lifesavers.

Ready to find your new favorite breakfast idea?

Classic Sausage and Egg Casserole

A Classic Sausage and Egg Casserole is a hearty and satisfying breakfast option that can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.

This casserole combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese all baked together into a delicious and comforting dish. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, whether you want to add some vegetables for extra nutrients or use a different type of cheese for a unique flavor.

Preparing this casserole the night before allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in an even tastier dish. With just a little bit of prep work, you can have a hot and delicious breakfast ready to serve with minimal effort in the morning. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 6 slices of bread, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions, if using.
4. Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese, making sure that the bread is fully soaked.
5. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing and serving hot.

Extra Tips:

For a flavorful twist, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the casserole.

If you prefer a spicier dish, try using spicy sausage or adding a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

To guarantee the casserole is cooked through, insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

Finally, this dish can also be frozen after baking—let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Bake

Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Bake is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast casserole that combines the comforting flavors of hash browns, cheese, and sausage or bacon. This dish is perfect for busy mornings, holiday breakfasts, or brunch gatherings as it can be assembled the night before and baked fresh the next day.

The creamy cheese blends perfectly with the crispy hash browns, offering a deliciously hearty meal that will satisfy everyone around the table.

This breakfast casserole isn’t only easy to make but also customizable to suit your family’s preferences. You can add vegetables, switch out the meats, or try different types of cheese to personalize the flavor.

Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a group of friends, this dish is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a cozy gathering. Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful breakfast bake.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of frozen hash browns, thawed
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup of cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage or bacon
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1/2 cup of diced onion
• 1/2 cup of diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent the casserole from sticking.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Spread the thawed hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon over the hash browns. Add the diced onions and bell peppers on top of the meat layer.
4. Add the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the layered ingredients.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
6. Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish, ensuring it covers evenly.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 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 and serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Hash Brown Breakfast Bake warm.

Extra Tips:

For a crispier texture, you can pre-cook the hash browns in a pan with a little oil until they start to brown before adding them to the baking dish.

If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the egg mixture.

This casserole is also freezer-friendly, so you can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, and bake it straight from the freezer with an additional 10-15 minutes of cooking time.

Veggie-Packed Frittata Casserole

Veggie-Packed Frittata Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast option that’s both nutritious and satisfying. This casserole combines a medley of fresh vegetables with fluffy eggs and cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches. Packed with flavor and texture, this frittata casserole can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs, making it a versatile addition to your breakfast repertoire.

The beauty of this Veggie-Packed Frittata Casserole lies in its simplicity and ability to be prepared the night before. By assembling it ahead of time, you can enjoy a stress-free morning knowing that a delicious, wholesome meal is ready to be baked and served. Whether you’re serving it to your family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and rich taste.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Add the zucchini and continue to cook for another 3 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme, and cook until the spinach wilts. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Mix Eggs and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Assemble Casserole: Add the sautéed vegetables to the egg mixture, stirring until the vegetables are evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.

Extra Tips:

To save time in the morning, consider prepping all the vegetables the night before and storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

You can also prepare the entire casserole the night before and bake it in the morning. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and cheeses based on personal preference or what you have on hand.

This recipe is quite forgiving and can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs, such as using dairy-free cheese or adding cooked sausage for extra protein.

Overnight French Toast Casserole

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the delightful aroma of a freshly baked breakfast casserole, and an Overnight French Toast Casserole is the perfect way to start your day. This make-ahead breakfast dish combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a casserole, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing morning.

By preparing everything the night before, you can simply pop it in the oven the next day, making it ideal for busy mornings or when you have guests staying over.

This Overnight French Toast Casserole is made with slices of soft bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, flavored with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. As it bakes, the bread becomes wonderfully fluffy and golden brown, while the custard sets to create a creamy interior. Topped with a buttery streusel topping, this casserole is a delicious way to enjoy French toast without the hassle of individually cooking each slice.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help in preventing the casserole from sticking to the dish.
2. Layer the Bread: Arrange the slices of French bread in the prepared baking dish, making sure they’re evenly distributed. You can overlap the slices slightly if necessary.
3. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish. Press down gently to ascertain all the bread is soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
5. Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
6. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Add the Topping: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover it, and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
8. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up slightly and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, you can substitute half of the milk with half-and-half or use all heavy cream. If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of maple syrup to the custard mixture.

Additionally, you can customize the casserole by adding fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced bananas before baking. To keep the casserole from becoming too soggy, consider lightly toasting the bread before assembling.

Finally, this dish pairs well with a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.

Spinach and Mushroom Strata

Spinach and Mushroom Strata is a delightful make-ahead breakfast casserole that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the vibrant taste of spinach, all nestled in a savory custard base. This dish is perfect for those busy mornings when you want a nutritious breakfast ready to go without the morning hassle.

The strata is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next day for a warm, hearty start to your day. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.

The combination of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach guarantees a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and simple. By preparing it in advance, the flavors meld together beautifully, offering a cohesive and delicious dish that everyone at the table will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 8 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French or Italian)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their juices and become tender, approximately 7-10 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
4. Assemble the Strata: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread. Spread half of the mushroom and spinach mixture over the bread, followed by half of the Gruyere and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, vegetables, and cheeses.
5. Add the Custard: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the layered bread, vegetables, and cheese. Press down gently with a spatula to verify the bread absorbs the custard.
6. Chill and Bake: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. When ready to bake, remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Extra Tips:

For best results, use day-old bread that’s slightly stale, as it will absorb the custard more effectively. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread cubes in the oven before assembling the strata.

Feel free to customize your strata by adding other ingredients such as cooked sausage, bell peppers, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Remember to let the strata rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and to allow the flavors to settle.

Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast dish that can be prepared ahead of time, the Ham and Cheese Croissant Casserole is a perfect choice. This savory casserole combines flaky croissants with rich ham and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a creamy egg mixture. It’s ideal for serving a group of 4-6 people and can be made the night before, making your morning hassle-free.

This casserole isn’t only convenient but also versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add vegetables like bell peppers and spinach to make it your own. The combination of buttery croissants and the hearty filling is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it for a casual family breakfast or a holiday brunch.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 6 large croissants
• 1 ½ cups diced ham
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Slice the Croissants: Cut the croissants into 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Add Ham and Cheese: Sprinkle the diced ham and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the croissant pieces in the dish.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant, ham, and cheese in the baking dish, guaranteeing all pieces are soaked.
6. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, allowing the croissants to absorb the egg mixture.
7. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the Casserole: Remove the plastic wrap or foil and place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a more flavorful casserole, consider using a combination of different cheeses such as Swiss or Gruyère along with cheddar.

If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the egg mixture.

To guarantee even cooking, allow the casserole to rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking if it has been refrigerated overnight. This will help it cook more evenly and guarantee a fluffy texture.

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful make-ahead breakfast dish that’s perfect for a cozy family morning or a special brunch gathering. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the comfort it brings with every bite.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of warm cinnamon rolls, combined with a creamy, sweet custard base, and topped with a luscious glaze. This dish captures the essence of a traditional cinnamon roll but in a convenient, easy-to-prepare casserole form. It’s a treat that satisfies the sweet tooth and makes breakfast a memorable occasion.

The casserole can be prepared the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together and saving you time in the morning. Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or simply want to treat your loved ones to something special, this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole will surely impress.

With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that brings warmth and joy to the breakfast table. Here’s how to make this delectable casserole for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cut the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and reserve the icing packets for later. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cut cinnamon rolls in the baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top, followed by the chopped pecans if using.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Add the Icing: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing over the top of the casserole.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of maple syrup to the custard mixture.

If you’re preparing this casserole the night before, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap after assembling and refrigerate. In the morning, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.

For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or replace them with raisins or dried cranberries. This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Southwestern Chorizo Breakfast Bake

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast dish that you can prepare ahead of time, the Southwestern Chorizo Breakfast Bake is a perfect choice. Loaded with flavors inspired by the Southwest, this bake combines spicy chorizo, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese all nestled in a fluffy egg base.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the breakfast table, making it ideal for weekend brunches or holiday mornings.

The best part about this breakfast bake is its convenience. You can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator, and simply bake it in the morning. The combination of spicy chorizo, sweet corn, bell peppers, and creamy cheese makes this dish a feast for the senses.

Here’s how to make enough for 4-6 people:

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 pound chorizo sausage, casing removed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups of cubed day-old bread (e.g., sourdough or French bread)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Chorizo: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chorizo and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the sausage into small pieces. Remove the cooked chorizo and set aside, leaving a small amount of grease in the skillet.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add the minced garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Add the sautéed vegetables, cooked chorizo, corn, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, bread cubes, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
5. Assemble the Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Press down slightly with a spatula to make sure everything is compact.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving, if desired.

Extra Tips:

To add a bit more zest, consider incorporating a can of diced green chilies into the mixture. Additionally, you can prepare the entire casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking to guarantee even cooking.

For those who prefer a milder dish, substitute the chorizo with a milder sausage or use half chorizo and half regular sausage. Finally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added depth of flavor.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Casserole

The Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Casserole is a delightful and comforting breakfast dish that brings together the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples with the hearty goodness of oats. Perfect for those busy mornings, this make-ahead casserole can be prepared the night before and simply baked in the morning, offering a stress-free meal to start your day.

It isn’t only nutritious but also incredibly versatile, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or a delightful treat for weekday mornings. This recipe serves 4-6 people and combines wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying and flavorful dish.

Tender baked apples meld with the creamy oats, all embraced by the aromatic spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a dish that encapsulates the cozy flavors of fall and can be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast or a delectable brunch option, this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Casserole is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and guarantee easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to confirm that the spices and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and eggs until fully combined. The eggs help bind the casserole, while the milk provides the necessary moisture for the oats to cook to a creamy consistency.
4. Layer and Assemble: Spread the diced apples evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the optional walnuts and dried cranberries or raisins over the apples. Pour the dry oat mixture over the apples, spreading it out evenly. Pour the wet milk mixture over the top, ensuring all the oats are submerged.
5. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set further and make it easier to slice and serve. Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt on top for added richness.

Extra Tips:

For added texture and flavor, consider using a mix of apple varieties such as Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with cream.

To save time in the morning, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it in the morning while you get ready for the day. Confirm the casserole dish is at room temperature before placing it in the oven to prevent cracking. Enjoy your delicious, make-ahead breakfast with minimal fuss!

Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole

The Mediterranean Breakfast Casserole is a delicious and healthy dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your morning table. This casserole is perfect for those busy mornings when you want something nutritious but don’t have time to cook from scratch.

It’s packed with protein from eggs, complemented by the savory notes of feta cheese, and brightened by the freshness of tomatoes and spinach. The dish is further enriched with the earthy flavor of olives and the aromatic punch of herbs, providing a well-rounded meal to start your day.

This make-ahead breakfast casserole is perfect for serving a family or a small gathering of 4-6 people. It can be prepared the night before and simply baked in the morning, making it a convenient option for hosting a weekend brunch or for meal prepping for the week ahead.

By combining the vibrant and fresh ingredients typical of Mediterranean cuisine, this dish delivers a satisfying and wholesome breakfast experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Ingredients (Serving size: 4-6 people):

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Mix Eggs and Dairy: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Add the salt, pepper, and oregano, mixing thoroughly to incorporate the seasonings.
4. Assemble Casserole: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese over the vegetables. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring even distribution.
5. Top with Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors.

Extra Tips:

For best flavor, use fresh ingredients whenever possible, especially the spinach and tomatoes. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can add additional herbs such as thyme or basil.

This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; simply reheat slices in the microwave or oven before serving. If you wish to add more protein or variety, consider incorporating cooked sausage or diced bell peppers into the dish.