Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a filled-with-everything morning meal that’s ready to go when you wake up. This casserole is packed with eggs, cheese, breakfast sausage, and plenty of potatoes for a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dish that makes weekends feel extra special and keeps everyone happy around the breakfast table.
I love how easy it is to prepare the night before—just layer everything in the baking dish, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. When morning comes, you simply bake it while you enjoy a cup of coffee. It feels like a little breakfast gift to yourself, especially on busy or lazy mornings when you still want something filling and tasty without a lot of fuss.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a side of fresh fruit or some simple salsa for a little zing. It’s also such a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or brunch with friends because it’s hearty, comforting, and full of classic breakfast flavors. I find that this dish brings everyone together with its warm, cheesy goodness and makes mornings a lot more fun.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor and texture. If you prefer less fat, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add extra veggies or smoked paprika for depth.
Bread: Sturdy bread like sourdough or French bread holds up well overnight without getting mushy. You could also use a gluten-free bread if needed, but make sure it’s firm enough to soak up the egg mixture.
Eggs & Milk: Eggs bind everything together, and whole milk keeps the casserole creamy. For a dairy-free option, swap milk with almond or oat milk, but avoid flavored varieties to keep the taste balanced.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp, melty finish. You can use Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of cheeses. For lactose intolerance, there are good lactose-free or vegan cheese alternatives too.
Sausage & Vegetables: Sausage adds heartiness, but it’s optional. Choose your favorite — pork, chicken, or plant-based sausage all work. Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and color, but feel free to swap with mushrooms or spinach if you like.
How Can I Make Sure the Casserole Has a Perfect Texture After Baking?
Getting the texture just right is key for breakfast casseroles. You want it set but moist, not soggy or dry.
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the egg mixture well without falling apart.
- Press Down the Mixture: After pouring the egg mix over, gently press the bread to help it absorb evenly.
- Cover and Refrigerate Overnight: This step lets the bread soak and the flavors meld, resulting in better texture and taste.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake until the eggs are just set and the top is golden. Overbaking dries it out.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes so it firms up and is easier to cut.
These tips help your casserole come out moist, flavorful, and easy to serve every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and layering all the ingredients.
- Mixing bowl – you’ll whisk the egg mixture here without any mess.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk smoothly for a creamy custard.
- Rubber spatula – great for pressing the egg mixture into the bread and scraping the bowl clean.
- Plastic wrap or foil – needed to cover the casserole while it soaks overnight in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for diced ham or cooked chorizo to change up the meat flavors.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Add diced mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in some chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley for a fresh note.
How to Make Loaded Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Base:
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cups cubed bread (French or sourdough works best)
For The Filling:
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced red bell pepper
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes to prepare the night before, then you’ll refrigerate the casserole overnight. When you bake it the next morning, allow 45-55 minutes for baking and about 5 minutes to cool before serving. Overall, mostly hands-off time with just a little prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Casserole Base:
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. Add the Fillings:
Sprinkle half of the chopped bacon, diced bell pepper, red onion, and cooked sausage (if using) over the bread cubes.
3. Add Egg Mixture and Refrigerate:
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread and fillings. Use a rubber spatula to gently press down the bread, helping it soak up the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight.
4. Bake the Casserole:
The next morning, take the casserole out and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Remove the cover and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese, remaining bacon, and chopped chives on top. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes, until the casserole is golden and set.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares. Garnish with extra chives if you like and serve warm. Enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast that was easy to prepare ahead!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen bread, but make sure to thaw it completely before cubing. This helps the bread soak up the egg mixture evenly for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Without Meat?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and sausage, and consider adding extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach for more flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prep the Casserole the Same Morning I Want to Serve It?
Yes! If short on time, you can prepare and bake the casserole the same morning. Just increase the soaking time to at least 30 minutes before baking to help the bread absorb the egg mixture.