This cozy brunch bake is the perfect mix of bread, eggs, and cheese, making a warm, tasty dish for any lazy weekend. It’s like a big hug on a plate!
Honestly, who doesn’t love breakfast that’s easy to share? I love to pair it with some fresh fruit. It’s simple to whip up, so you can enjoy more time relaxing with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Six large eggs create a fluffy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites. These still hold the dish together well.
Milk: Whole milk gives creaminess, but you can swap it with almond milk or skim milk for a dairy-free or lighter option without losing flavor.
Bread: White bread is traditional, but feel free to use whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread! Just ensure it’s not too soft to maintain a good structure.
Cheese: Cheddar is a great choice, but if you’re a fan of something different, try mozzarella or pepper jack for a little kick. They all melt nicely.
Ham: Cooked ham adds protein, but diced turkey, kielbasa, or even cooked veggie sausage can be excellent swaps, perfect for varying tastes.
How Do I Ensure My Brunch Bake Cooks Evenly?
Cooking your Brunch Bake evenly can be tricky, but it’s all about the preparation and baking method. Here are some key tips:
- Start with a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking from the start.
- Use a 9×13 inch baking dish for even heat distribution and to avoid a soggy base.
- Don’t overcrowd with too many ingredients; keep the layers level and spread them evenly for consistent baking.
- Check for doneness at the 35-minute mark; look for golden tops and firm egg consistency. If it jiggles, give it a bit more time.
Feel free to enjoy this dish as a great way to start your day with family or friends!
Brunch Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 8 slices white bread, crusts removed, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked ham, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and halved
- 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Brunch Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake in the oven. After baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Overall, you can have this warm and hearty dish ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly butter it with 1 tablespoon of butter to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.
2. Whisk the Eggs and Milk:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and pour in 1 cup of whole milk. Using a whisk, mix them together thoroughly until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to season the mixture with salt and pepper to add flavor!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cubed bread, diced ham, and shredded cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Gently stir everything to ensure the bread is well coated with the egg mixture and that the ham and cheese are evenly distributed.
4. Pour and Spread:
Carefully pour the entire mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly so that every bite will have delicious ingredients.
5. Top with Bacon:
Take your cooked and halved bacon slices and arrange them on top of the mixture for added flavor and crunch. Yum!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the eggs are set—your kitchen will soon smell incredible!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the Brunch Bake cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut. Sprinkle some chopped green onions on top, and if you like, add a touch of fresh parsley for a beautiful touch.
8. Serve:
Slice the Brunch Bake and serve warm. It goes great alongside some roasted potatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes. Enjoy your hearty Brunch Bake!
This dish is perfect for sharing with family or friends at brunch, and it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While white bread is traditional, you can substitute with whole grain, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread. Just make sure the bread isn’t too soft to maintain a good texture in the bake.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make the Brunch Bake vegetarian, simply omit the ham and bacon. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, pour it into the baking dish and add the bacon on top before baking. Just expect to add a few extra minutes to the baking time because it will be cold from the fridge.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to a month; just make sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
