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This bacon and egg bake is always a hit with the family and you can get it ready the night before. You’ll get crispy bacon, gooey cheese, soft bread pieces, and fluffy eggs all in one dish. It’s my go-to when I’d rather sip coffee and relax in the morning instead of rushing around with pans.
The first time I made this was for Christmas morning and now my son always wants it when friends stay over. There’s just something about waking up to that bacon smell wafting through the house that feels like a hug.
Hearty Ingredients
- Chives for garnish: Snip some chives on top for a burst of color and a little onion kick. Fresh chives are even better if you have them.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: You’ll want cheese that melts well. Cheddar gives a sharp punch and shredding it fresh at home makes it melt best.
- Bacon: This is the real flavor maker. Get it nice and crispy, chop it up, and make sure you use a good thick-cut bacon for a bigger bacon taste.
- Bread: Bread is what soaks up all the tasty egg mixture. White or country bread works great—just make sure the cubes are dry for max absorption.
- Dry mustard: Mustard powder brings a gentle twang and makes everything pop. You’ll find it in the spice section.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors and cuts richness. Sea salt keeps everything bright.
- Milk: Makes everything creamy. Whole milk adds the richest texture but use what you have.
- Eggs: The eggs tie it all together and keep the bake fluffy. The fresher, the better for that light feel.
Simple How-To Guide
- Garnish and Dig In:
- Sprinkle chopped chives on top. Cut into hearty pieces and enjoy warm.
- Bake It Off:
- As your oven heats to 350°F, pull the bake from the fridge so it isn’t ice cold. Bake for 30–45 minutes uncovered until it's golden and doesn’t jiggle in the center. If a knife comes out almost clean, it’s good to go.
- Chill for Flavor:
- Wrap the dish tight with plastic and stash it in your fridge overnight. This lets the bread soak up all that eggy-milk goodness.
- Pour the Egg Mix:
- Slowly pour your egg mix all over. You want every bread cube to soak good and even.
- Whisk Up the Eggs:
- Crack eggs into a big bowl and whisk till mixed. Add salt, mustard powder, and milk. Whisk some more till it’s smooth and blended well.
- Scatter on the Bacon:
- Lay your crispy bacon pieces across the cheese, tucking some pieces into the bread so there’s bacon everywhere.
- Add the Cheese:
- Layer the cheese on next. Make sure it’s spread out so you get that stringy cheese pull in each bite.
- Layer the Bread:
- Cover the whole bottom of your baking dish with the dried bread cubes—don’t pack them down too much.
- Get the Dish Ready:
- Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray so you don’t have to scrape anything off later and slices come out clean.
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The edges get so crunchy and filled with bacon that my kids argue over who gets those corner squares. One time at a sleepover, everyone got to choose a mix-in and it was just non-stop laughs at breakfast. Those memories are the best part.
Keeping Leftovers
Wrap up any extra slices and pop them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to stash some for later, freeze them individually. To warm up just microwave or bake till heated and your bacon comes out just as tempting as day one.
Swaps You Can Make
No cheddar? Use Swiss or Monterey Jack. Swapping turkey bacon makes it lighter. Got leftover buns or rolls? Toss them in for the bread. Or go wild and add in some cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for something different.
Best Pairings
Dish this up with a simple fruit salad or crisp green salad for a full-on brunch. A hot mug of coffee or some fresh orange juice goes perfect. If you’re really going for it serve with roasted breakfast potatoes on the side or treat yourself to a mimosa.
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Tradition and Background
This style of breakfast bake shows up in a lot of Midwest homes, especially at big holidays like Easter or Christmas. The day is so much easier when you can prep ahead and hang out with everyone in the morning too. My family always has it for New Year’s to kick off things cozy and bright.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this bake ahead of time?
Sure thing! Prepare it all the night before, leave it in the fridge, and cook it fresh in the morning.
- → What kind of bread is best to use?
Bread that's a little dry or stale works best since it soaks up all the egg mixture without getting mushy.
- → Are other ingredients okay to add?
Yep! Toss in cooked veggies, more cheese, or fresh herbs like green onions or parsley to make it your own.
- → How will I know if it’s cooked through?
If the bake has puffed up, is golden brown, and doesn't wobble in the middle when you move the dish around, it’s ready!
- → Can leftovers be saved for later?
Totally! Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, and they’ll taste just as good.