Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole combines the comforting flavors of melted cheese and buttery bread in a simple, baked dish. Perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches, it’s a hearty way to start your day with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• Chopped fresh herbs (optional): parsley, chives, or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter one side of each slice of bread with the softened butter.
2. Step 2: Arrange half of the bread slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, buttered side up.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the bread in the dish.
4. Step 4: Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up.
5. Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and cheese.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
9. Step 9: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added flavor complexity.
• Add cooked breakfast sausage, bacon, or diced vegetables like bell peppers for a heartier dish.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread slices.
• Fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or thyme sprinkled on top add a fresh and vibrant finish.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking—just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.

What type of bread works best?

Both white and whole wheat breads work well. Choose sturdy slices that will hold up to soaking in the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 102 reviews

This Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole is a comforting and delicious morning meal combining layers of buttery bread, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and a savory egg custard. Perfect for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings, this baked casserole delivers the classic flavors of grilled cheese in a convenient, easy-to-make dish. Optional herbs add a fresh touch to this hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Casserole:

• 8 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• Chopped fresh herbs (optional): parsley, chives, or thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. Then layer half of the bread slices, buttered side up, in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Next, place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up, creating a layered base.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and cheese in the baking dish.
4. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top to create a golden, cheesy crust.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the egg mixture is fully set and the top browns beautifully. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs if desired.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use whole milk or add a splash of cream to the egg mixture.
• You can substitute cheeses according to your preference, such as using Swiss or Monterey Jack.
• Feel free to add cooked breakfast meats like bacon or sausage for a non-vegetarian version.
• Make the casserole a day ahead; assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
• Use stale or day-old bread for best absorption of the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Keywords: grilled cheese casserole, breakfast casserole, baked eggs, cheesy breakfast, easy brunch recipe, comfort food, American breakfast