Why Make This Recipe
The Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines ease and flavor. It’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions when you want to impress without spending all morning in the kitchen. By preparing it the night before, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort the next day. The combination of eggs, cheese, bread, and sausage or bacon creates a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
How to Make Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf day-old Italian or French bread, cubed
- 10 large eggs
- 2 ½ cups whole milk & ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese & ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 lb breakfast sausage or bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tsp salt & ½ tsp pepper
- Parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Layer the cubed bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top the bread with cooked sausage or bacon and any sautéed vegetables you like.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the dish.
- Sprinkle both cheeses on top, cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- The casserole is finished when the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley for a touch of color. This dish is great on its own or paired with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side salad. You can cut it into squares for easy serving and enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
How to Store Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Any leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm up the entire dish in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole
- Using day-old bread helps to absorb the egg mixture better, making the casserole creamy.
- Feel free to add other ingredients such as spinach, bell peppers, or different types of cheese for variety.
- Make sure to let the casserole sit at room temperature before baking for even cooking.
Variation
If you prefer to keep things healthier, you can use turkey sausage instead of regular sausage or bacon. You can also substitute low-fat milk and cheese for a lighter version.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole without meat?
Yes, you can simply skip the sausage or bacon and add extra vegetables for flavor.
How many servings does this casserole yield?
This recipe typically serves about 8-10 people, depending on portion size.
Can I freeze the casserole?
It’s best to bake the casserole first and then freeze the cooked portions. Wrap slices tightly and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Layer the cubed bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top the bread with cooked sausage or bacon and any sautéed vegetables you like.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layers in the dish.
- Sprinkle both cheeses on top, cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- The casserole is finished when the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.