Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake
Highlighted under: Comfort Classics
I love having a delicious and hearty breakfast ready to go, especially on busy mornings. This Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake is one of my go-to recipes. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like eggs, vegetables, and cheese, making it not only filling but also a great way to start the day. I appreciate how I can prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s like having a gourmet breakfast without the hassle, and it’s perfect for when guests come over too!
When I first decided to try the Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake, I was skeptical about how well it would hold up overnight. However, after serving it to friends and family, I realized it was an absolute hit! Each slice is bursting with flavor thanks to the fresh vegetables and a hint of cheese. I also found that letting it sit for a few minutes after baking enhances the flavors even more.
One tip I learned is to use a variety of vegetables to keep things interesting. Spinach, bell peppers, and onions create a lovely combination, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand. This dish is not just versatile; it’s also incredibly satisfying, and it reheats beautifully!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Convenient and prep-friendly for busy mornings
- Packed with nutritious ingredients and flavor
- Versatile – customize with your favorite vegetables and cheeses
Perfecting Your Breakfast Egg Bake
To achieve the best texture in your egg bake, it's important to not overbeat the eggs when whisking them with the milk. Whisk just until combined, avoiding too much air incorporation, which can lead to a puffed, spongy texture rather than a moist, custardy result. A good mix should still have a bit of creaminess and not resemble frothy bubbles.
Choosing the right vegetables can also significantly affect the flavor and texture. While spinach and bell peppers are classic choices, consider adding ingredients like zucchini, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to chop the vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking. If you prefer a less watery bake, sauté the veggies briefly to reduce moisture before adding them to the egg mixture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This egg bake is not only easy to prepare but also a breeze to store. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To maintain its freshness, you can also freeze individual squares by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weekdays.
When it’s time to enjoy your breakfast bake again, reheating it is simple. For refrigerated squares, just pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. If they are frozen, it's best to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the edges are golden again, ensuring a pleasant texture.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake:
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the dish)
Make sure to prep your ingredients before mixing everything together effectively.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious breakfast:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
Whisk Eggs and Milk
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Add Seasonings
Mix in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika into the egg mixture.
Stir in Cheese and Vegetables
Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped vegetables until evenly distributed.
Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious breakfast egg bake!
This breakfast bake is perfect for make-ahead meals. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or basil to the egg mixture. You can also substitute half of the eggs with egg whites for a lighter version.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of this breakfast egg bake lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit various tastes or dietary needs. If you’re looking to reduce fat or calories, you can substitute whole eggs with egg whites or use a milk alternative to lower calories without sacrificing any flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different cheese types can lead to delightful results—try feta for a tangy kick or a pepper jack for an extra heat.
For an Italian twist, consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian herbs like oregano and basil, and mozzarella cheese. Want a southwest flair? Incorporate black beans, corn, diced jalapeños, and cheddar cheese. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to enjoy a different rendition of this dish each time you make it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your egg bake ends up undercooked in the center, it could be due to a few factors. First, ensure that you’re using a shallow baking dish, as a deeper dish will require a longer cooking time. Secondly, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer—ovens can often run hotter or cooler than the dial indicates. Adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time may help achieve that perfect set.
A common issue is a soggy texture if too many watery vegetables are used. To avoid this, pre-cook high-water content veggies like zucchini or tomatoes before adding them to the mix. Another tip is to strain any excess moisture from the vegetables after cooking. This simple step can greatly enhance the overall texture of your bake, keeping it light and fluffy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding to the egg mixture to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover egg bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions. Thaw and reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with fresh fruit, toast, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake
I love having a delicious and hearty breakfast ready to go, especially on busy mornings. This Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake is one of my go-to recipes. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients like eggs, vegetables, and cheese, making it not only filling but also a great way to start the day. I appreciate how I can prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven in the morning. It’s like having a gourmet breakfast without the hassle, and it’s perfect for when guests come over too!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Classics
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, onions)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the dish)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Mix in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika into the egg mixture.
Fold in the shredded cheese and chopped vegetables until evenly distributed.
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your delicious breakfast egg bake!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider adding herbs like chives or basil to the egg mixture. You can also substitute half of the eggs with egg whites for a lighter version.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 410mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g