The Best Cheese and Egg Casserole

Posted on April 15, 2025

If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd, this Cheese and Egg Casserole is here to become your new go-to recipe. Combining fluffy eggs, melty cheese, and customizable add-ins, this baked casserole delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, prepping meals for the week, or simply craving a hearty breakfast, this dish has you covered. With endless variations and straightforward preparation, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite among home cooks. Let’s dive into how you can master this versatile and delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheese and Egg Casserole checks all the boxes for a perfect breakfast:

Quick and Easy: Just mix, bake, and serve—no fancy techniques required.
Great for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead of time and reheat throughout the week for stress-free mornings.
Customizable: Add veggies, meats, or different cheeses to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Ideal for brunches, holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it suitable for many diets.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

To create this delicious Cheese and Egg Casserole, gather the following key components:

For the Base:

Eggs: The star ingredient, providing protein and structure.
Milk (or Heavy Cream): Adds creaminess and richness to the texture.
Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack all melt beautifully and add flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Enhance the overall taste.
Butter: Greases the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Optional Add-Ins:

Veggies: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for added nutrition.
Protein: Cooked sausage, ham, or other alternatives for extra heartiness.
Spices: Diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Bread or Potatoes: Layer bread cubes or shredded hash browns for a heartier dish.

Variations:

Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage, ham, or other proteins for a protein-packed option.
Veggie Packed: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.
Cheesy Upgrade: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta for more depth of flavor.
Keto-Friendly: Substitute heavy cream for milk to reduce carbs while maintaining richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease the Baking Dish: Use butter to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring the casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Milk

Combine Eggs and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and milk together until well combined. For a richer texture, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Season the Mixture: Add salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.

Step 3: Stir in Cheese and Add-Ins

Add Cheese: Mix in shredded cheese to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.
Incorporate Optional Ingredients: If using, stir in sautéed veggies, cooked proteins, or diced jalapeños. Avoid adding watery vegetables like raw tomatoes unless they’ve been sautéed first to prevent a soggy casserole.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the Mixture: Transfer the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake Until Set: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown. To prevent over-browning, cover the dish with foil halfway through baking if needed.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps it set further and makes serving easier.
Enjoy Warm: Slice into portions and serve with toast, fresh fruit, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Cheese and Egg Casserole

Choose Quality Cheese: Opt for cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack.
Sauté Veggies First: Pre-cook watery vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes to avoid a watery casserole.
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for convenience.
Individual Portions: Bake in a greased muffin tin at 350°F for 15-20 minutes for single-serving options.
Experiment with Flavors: Try different cheeses, spices, or add-ins to keep the dish exciting.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

Brunch Spread: Include alongside quiches, pastries, or yogurt parfaits for variety.
Complete Meal: Pair with toast, fresh fruit, or a green salad for a balanced breakfast.
Kid-Friendly Option: Skip spicy ingredients and use milder cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
What’s the best cheese for this casserole?
Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack all melt well and add great flavor.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives.
How do I prevent a watery casserole?
Avoid adding too many watery veggies like tomatoes unless sautéed first.
Can I bake this in muffin tins for individual portions?
Yes! Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes in a greased muffin tin.
Can I use egg whites instead of whole eggs?
Yes! Substitute 2 egg whites for every whole egg.
Can I add bread or potatoes for a heartier dish?
Yes! Layer bread cubes or shredded hash browns in the dish before adding the egg mixture.
Why is my casserole puffing up in the oven?
That’s normal! It will settle as it cools.
How do I keep the top from getting too brown?
Cover with foil halfway through baking if needed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with toast, fresh fruit, or a side salad for a complete breakfast.

Final Thoughts

This Cheese and Egg Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast—easy to customize, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it for a family brunch, prep it for busy mornings, or bring it to a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit. Its versatility allows you to tailor it to your taste, while its simplicity ensures it’s a stress-free addition to your cooking repertoire.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the ultimate cheesy, satisfying breakfast. Once you try this Cheese and Egg Casserole, you’ll wonder how you ever started your mornings without it!