Description
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of a hearty, warm breakfast—and this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole delivers all the satisfaction of a gooey grilled cheese sandwich baked into a comforting casserole form.
Ingredients
Ingredients
12 slices sandwich bread (white or brioche, lightly toasted or day-old preferred)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for grilling the bread)
12 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorites)
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
Cooked bacon or sausage crumbles
Sliced tomatoes or bell peppers
Fresh herbs like chives or parsley
A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Grill in a skillet until golden brown and crispy, just like a traditional grilled cheese sandwich. Let cool slightly, then cut into quarters.
Step 2: Grease the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Arrange half of the bread quarters in the bottom, buttered side up.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese evenly over the bread layer.
Step 4: Repeat Layers
Add the remaining bread slices over the cheese. Top with the rest of the cheese.
Step 5: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 6: Pour and Soak
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese layers. Gently press down with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
Step 7: Chill (Optional)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for a make-ahead breakfast.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 9: Rest and Serve
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite sides or garnishes.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better texture. It soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
- Brioche, sourdough, or French bread work beautifully for this recipe.
- Lightly toast the bread before layering for extra crispiness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
Keywords: Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole