Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole
The Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole is a perfect dish to start your day with something hearty and full of flavor. It’s packed with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fluffy…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole is a perfect dish to start your day with something hearty and full of flavor. It’s packed with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fluffy eggs all baked together into one warm, comforting meal. You get a lovely mix of textures with the crispy edges and soft center that just feels like a hug on a plate.
I love making this casserole when I have a bit of extra time on the weekend because it’s so easy to prepare, and it feeds a crowd without any fuss. One tip I’ve learned is to use leftover roasted potatoes or hash browns—it saves time and adds a nice touch of extra flavor. Plus, the bacon always makes everyone happy, and the eggs tie everything together perfectly.
The best part about this casserole is how flexible it is. I like to serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream for a little contrast. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but isn’t complicated at all, making it ideal for brunch gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Every time I make it, it turns into a big hit with friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crisp bacon adds smoky flavor and crunch. For a lighter option, try turkey bacon or use cooked sausage. You can also skip bacon for a vegetarian version and add mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth.
Potatoes: Roasted or boiled potatoes work well. Leftover fries or hash browns also make a great shortcut and add texture. Sweet potatoes are a tasty, colorful alternative if you want a twist.
Eggs and Milk: Eggs form the base and hold everything together. Using whole milk or half-and-half keeps the casserole creamy. For a dairy-free option, try unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, but the texture may be a little different.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds melty, tangy richness. You can swap for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for milder flavors. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
Onions and Bell Peppers: These add sweetness and a fresh bite. Yellow or white onions also work well. Feel free to vary the bell pepper color for visual appeal and flavor. Green onions on top add freshness.
How Do You Get the Casserole Creamy but Firm, Not Runny?
Balancing the eggs and milk for the right texture is key. Here’s what I do:
- Whisk eggs well with milk to fully combine for even texture.
- Don’t overdo the milk—too much makes it runny, too little makes it dry.
- Fold ingredients gently to keep the air in eggs, helping a fluffy bake.
- Check doneness by jiggling the dish slightly; it should be set but still moist.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and slice neatly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9 inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large skillet – great for cooking bacon and sautéing veggies in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk eggs and combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk – helps mix eggs and milk uniformly for a creamy texture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for folding ingredients gently without breaking potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or ham for a different smoky meat flavor.
- Use pepper jack or mozzarella cheese for a milder or spicier twist.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and nutrients.
- Sprinkle smoked paprika or chili flakes into eggs for a warm, spicy kick.
Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups cooked potatoes, diced (roasted or boiled)
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to bake. Add 5 minutes resting time after baking before serving. So in total, set aside about 1 hour from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish well with cooking spray or butter, so the casserole won’t stick.
2. Cook the Bacon and Vegetables:
Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crisp. Remove the bacon, drain it on paper towels, and crumble it once cooled. Keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet. Add diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until soft and fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat.
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper together until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Gently fold the cooked potatoes, sautéed onions and peppers, crumbled bacon (save a little for topping), shredded cheddar, and sliced green onions into the egg mixture. Stir gently to keep things light and fluffy.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved crumbled bacon and a little extra cheddar cheese on top for a delicious finish. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the eggs are fully set and the crust or top looks golden brown.
6. Rest and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set so it slices nicely. Garnish with extra green onions and serve warm. Enjoy a tasty, cozy breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes in This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from frozen potatoes before using. This helps prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
You can use cooked sausage, ham, or a vegetarian alternative like smoked mushrooms or tempeh to keep that savory flavor without bacon.
