Fiery Chipotle Bacon Egg Bake

Welcome to the ultimate guide for a breakfast sensation that promises to elevate your mornings and delight your guests: the Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole. This isn’t just any breakfast dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines the hearty satisfaction of a full breakfast with the convenience of a make-ahead meal. Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of eggs, savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a secret ingredient that adds a captivating smoky depth. This casserole is designed to be the star of any brunch table, a comforting holiday breakfast, or even a clever meal prep solution for your busy week ahead.

Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole from www.thisgalcooks.com

There’s something uniquely comforting about breakfast food. Whether it’s the fluffy pancakes drenched in syrup, the crispy perfection of bacon, the golden scramble of eggs, or the rustic charm of hashbrowns, these morning staples evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia. And the best part? These aren’t just for mornings! I wholeheartedly believe breakfast food transcends time, making an appearance at midday brunches, satisfying late-night cravings, or even serving as a delightful dinner option. This particular breakfast casserole takes all those beloved elements and wraps them into one effortlessly delicious package, creating a versatile dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

For too long, my breakfast casserole repertoire stuck to a familiar formula: hashbrowns, a choice of breakfast meat, plenty of cheese, and a creamy binder. While undeniably delicious, I recently embarked on a quest for something new, a recipe that could introduce a fresh perspective to my beloved breakfast bakes. My search led me to an inspiring Brunch Egg Bake recipe, which served as the perfect springboard for my own creation. I embraced the spirit of improvisation, tailoring the ingredients to what I had readily available, and the result was nothing short of spectacular. What you’re about to discover is a unique twist on the classic egg bake, promising layers of flavor and a touch of unexpected spice that will leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole from www.thisgalcooks.com

Why This Egg Bake Casserole Recipe Works So Well

Breakfast casseroles have long been the quintessential dish for family gatherings, holiday mornings, and leisurely weekend brunches, especially in the Southern tradition. They embody the very essence of practical hospitality, offering a trifecta of benefits that make them an indispensable recipe for any home cook. First, they are incredibly convenient; you can assemble them entirely ahead of time, allowing for stress-free mornings. Second, they are designed to feed a crowd with remarkable ease, making them perfect for entertaining. And third, their inherent adaptability means you can tweak and personalize them to suit any taste or dietary preference. This makes our Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole not just a meal, but a flexible solution for a multitude of occasions.

At its core, an egg bake is a celebration of simplicity: a rich, savory custard of eggs, milk, and cheese, baked until golden, puffy, and irresistibly tender. It’s a culinary equation that’s almost impossible to get wrong and universally loved. This familiar comfort forms the foundational appeal of our recipe. However, we’re not just crafting any ordinary breakfast bake here. What truly distinguishes this particular Egg Bake Casserole and elevates it to a new level of deliciousness is a singular, powerful ingredient: the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. This humble pepper is my secret weapon, transforming a dependable dish into something truly memorable.

While the bacon contributes a delightful saltiness and the green chiles offer a gentle, tangy warmth, the chipotle pepper introduces an entirely new dimension of flavor. It imparts a profound, smoky depth that beautifully complements the creamy richness of the eggs and the sharp tang of the cheddar cheese. The goal isn’t overwhelming heat, but rather a subtle, smoldering warmth that lingers pleasantly in the background, adding complexity without aggression. This small but mighty pepper elevates the entire dish, transcending it from a predictable breakfast staple to a multi-layered flavor experience that feels both rustic and refined. It’s the unexpected twist that garners rave reviews and makes guests’ eyes light up with every delightful bite.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Egg Bake Casserole

The beauty of this Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole lies not only in its sensational flavor but also in the simplicity of its ingredients. Everything you need is readily available at your local grocery store, making this a fuss-free recipe to prepare. Yet, the way these straightforward components meld together creates something truly extraordinary. Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients required to bring this flavorful casserole to life:

  • 8 large eggs: The foundation of our creamy custard. Large eggs provide the perfect volume and richness.
  • 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar offers a robust, tangy flavor that stands up beautifully to the other bold ingredients.
  • 2oz of real bacon pieces: Opt for actual bacon pieces for superior flavor and texture over artificial bacon bits.
  • 1 4.5oz can of chopped green chilis, drained: These provide a mild, earthy warmth and a subtle tang without adding too much heat. Draining them is crucial to prevent a watery casserole.
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped: When sautéed, the onion sweetens and adds a foundational layer of savory flavor.
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, seeds removed and finely chopped: This is the secret ingredient! It delivers an incredible smoky depth and a gentle heat. Removing the seeds helps control the spice level.
  • 3/4 cup of whole milk: Whole milk contributes to a richer, more custardy texture in the finished egg bake.
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour: The flour acts as a binder, helping the egg mixture set firmly and preventing it from becoming too runny.
  • 1 tbsp of olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and bacon, adding a light, fruity note.
  • 1/4 tsp of ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances the overall savory profile.

Let’s talk a bit more about the star of the show: the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. You’ll typically find these in small cans in the international foods aisle of most supermarkets. Just one pepper is enough to infuse the entire casserole with that signature smoky, complex flavor. For those who prefer a milder warmth, be diligent about removing all the seeds before finely mincing the pepper. The goal is even distribution, ensuring that smoky kick graces every single bite without overwhelming the palate.

Beyond the chipotle, a few thoughtful ingredient choices can significantly impact the final dish. I highly recommend using sharp cheddar cheese because its assertive flavor provides a wonderful contrast and complement to the smokiness of the chipotle. Furthermore, if possible, buy a block of cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder smooth melting and sometimes impart a slightly floury texture. For the bacon, seek out “real bacon pieces” rather than “bacon bits,” which can often be soy-based or less flavorful. The real pieces will crisp up beautifully and render their fat, adding depth. Finally, using whole milk is paramount for achieving that rich, luxurious, custardy texture. Skim or low-fat milk simply won’t deliver the same creamy consistency.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making This Flavorful Egg Bake Casserole

Preparing this Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole is delightfully straightforward, making it an ideal recipe for both novice and experienced cooks. By following these simple steps, you’ll soon have a perfectly baked, crowd-pleasing casserole ready to serve. Before you begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a standard 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures easy release and prevents sticking.

Step 1: Sauté the Bacon and Onion

Begin by heating your tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the finely chopped yellow onion and the real bacon pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the onion becomes beautifully soft and translucent, and the bacon bits are lightly crisped. This initial step is more than just cooking; it’s about building the foundational layers of flavor. Sautéing the onions mellows their sharp raw bite into a delightful sweetness, while the bacon renders its savory fats, infusing the oil with its irresistible essence.

Once the onion and bacon are perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Using a slotted spoon, carefully transfer the mixture to a plate lined with paper towels. This crucial step allows any excess grease to drain away, ensuring that your finished casserole is rich and flavorful, not oily.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack all eight large eggs. Whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are just combined and uniform in color. Be mindful not to over-whisk, as excessive aeration can lead to a tougher, less tender final texture. Next, gradually whisk in the whole milk, the all-purpose flour, and the ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the flour is completely incorporated and there are no visible lumps. The flour is a vital binding agent in this recipe; it helps the casserole set up beautifully, providing structure and preventing a watery consistency.

Finally, stir in the drained chopped green chilis and that all-important finely chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure that the smoky, savory, and subtly spicy flavors are evenly distributed throughout the egg batter, guaranteeing a burst of flavor in every single bite.

Step 3: Combine and Pour

Now it’s time to bring all the delicious components together. Add the two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the cooled onion and bacon mixture (which you drained in Step 1) to the prepared egg batter. Using a spatula, give it a final, gentle stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly dispersed. The goal is to have a delightful mix of cheese, bacon, and onion in every single spoonful of your casserole.

Carefully pour the entire mixture into your previously greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Use your spatula to spread it out into an even layer across the dish. That’s it! Your casserole is now ready for the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish into your preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for approximately 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know your Egg Bake Casserole is perfectly cooked when the center is firm and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the pan. The edges should be beautifully golden brown and may have slightly pulled away from the sides of the dish. For the most reliable test of doneness, insert a thin, sharp knife or a wooden skewer into the very center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, without any wet egg clinging to it, your casserole is ready to be removed from the oven.

Step 5: Let It Rest – The Crucial Final Step

This might just be the hardest step, but it is unequivocally the most important for achieving perfect slices and optimal texture! Once you remove the golden-brown casserole from the oven, resist the urge to slice into it immediately. Instead, place the baking dish on a wire rack and let it rest undisturbed for at least 10 minutes, and ideally 15, before you cut and serve. This resting period allows the residual heat to complete the cooking process gently and, more importantly, gives the egg custard time to fully set up and firm. If you cut into the casserole too soon, it might be runny, fall apart, and lose its beautiful structure. Patience here will be generously rewarded with clean, firm, and perfectly shaped slices that hold together beautifully.

Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole

Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole

Yield:
8
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
40 minutes
Total Time:
55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 8 eggs
  • 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2oz of real bacon pieces
  • 1 4.5oz can of chopped green chilis, drained
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, seeds removed and chopped
  • 3/4 cup of milk
  • 1/4 cup of all purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp of olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp of ground pepper
  • An oven preheated at 350 degrees
  • A baking dish

Instructions

  1. Saute the onion and bacon pieces in the olive oil until the onion is tender.
  2. Remove from heat, drain.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs. Whisk in the diced chilis, chipotle in adobo, milk, pepper and flour.
  4. Add the cheese and the onion and bacon mixture.
  5. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350 for 35-40 minutes or until a knife stuck in the center comes out clean.
  6. Remove from the oven and let set for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information:

Yield: 8
Serving Size: 1

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 271 Total Fat: 19g Saturated Fat: 8g Trans Fat: 0g Unsaturated Fat: 9g Cholesterol: 223mg Sodium: 392mg Carbohydrates: 8g Net Carbohydrates: 0g Fiber: 1g Sugar: 2g Sugar Alcohols: 0g Protein: 17g

© Julie Murkerson
Category: Breakfast & Brunch

img 19802 4

How To Serve Your Delicious Egg Bake Casserole

One of the most appealing aspects of this Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole is its incredible versatility. It can effortlessly take center stage as the main attraction of an elaborate brunch spread, or it can stand alone as a simple, yet utterly satisfying, breakfast or light meal. The way you choose to serve it can be tailored to the specific occasion and your personal preferences, allowing for both casual comfort and elegant presentation. For a classic brunch setting, I love to slice it into generous squares and serve it warm directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves to its golden, inviting goodness.

To truly round out the meal and provide a harmonious balance to the savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors of the casserole, consider adding a few fresh and simple side dishes. These accompaniments not only enhance the overall dining experience but also introduce varied textures and bright notes. Here are some of my absolute favorite pairings that complement this dish beautifully:

  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of colorful, seasonal fruits—think succulent berries, juicy melon, and crisp grapes—offers a sweet, refreshing, and hydrating contrast to the rich, hearty casserole.
  • Avocado and Tomato Slices: Creamy slices of ripe avocado paired with fresh, ripe tomato, perhaps lightly seasoned with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, add a velvety texture and a burst of bright acidity. This combination beautifully echoes and enhances the subtle Southwestern notes introduced by the chipotle and green chiles.
  • Sour Cream or Mexican Crema: A cool dollop of sour cream or a luxurious drizzle of Mexican crema on top of each serving works wonders. It not only tempers any lingering subtle heat from the chipotle but also introduces an additional layer of smooth, dairy richness that makes each bite even more indulgent.
  • Fresh Herbs for Garnish: A generous sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro or thinly sliced green onions just before serving provides an instant pop of vibrant color and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. These fresh elements awaken the palate and add a professional, finished touch to the dish.
  • Warm Tortillas or Crusty Toast: For those seeking an even heartier meal, serving the casserole alongside warm flour tortillas or thick, buttered slices of sourdough toast is an excellent choice. They are perfect for scooping up any delicious bits or simply enjoying as a carb-rich complement.

If you’re planning to serve this for a larger gathering or a special event, don’t be afraid to think outside the traditional square. You can cut the casserole into smaller, elegant two-bite squares or even triangles and arrange them artfully on a platter. Served this way, they make a fantastic savory appetizer or a delightful addition to a buffet line. Regardless of how you choose to present it, this Egg Bake Casserole is guaranteed to be a resounding success, thanks to its delicious, complex, and utterly unique flavor profile that appeals to nearly everyone.

How To Store & Reuse Your Delicious Egg Bake Casserole Leftovers

This Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole truly is a gift that keeps on giving, because the leftovers are often just as delicious, if not even more so, than the freshly baked dish. The magic happens as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen overnight, creating an even richer experience. Proper storage and reheating are essential to ensure you can savor its deliciousness for days to come. The most critical first step, regardless of your storage method, is to allow the entire casserole to cool down completely to room temperature before you even consider covering or refrigerating it. Storing it warm can create condensation, leading to a soggy texture.

Once the casserole has cooled down, you have a couple of excellent options for storage. You can either cover the entire baking dish tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, or, for ultimate convenience, cut the casserole into individual portions. Place these individual slices in airtight containers. Stored correctly, the casserole will maintain its freshness and flavor beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it an absolutely fantastic candidate for quick, homemade weekday breakfasts or easy grab-and-go lunches.

When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know there are several great options for reheating and even repurposing them:

  • Microwave Reheating (Quickest Method): For a speedy reheat, place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 60 to 90 seconds on high, or until the casserole is warmed through to your liking. Covering it loosely with a damp paper towel during reheating can help retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
  • Oven or Toaster Oven Reheating (Best Texture): For the absolute best texture, especially if you want to recapture some of those crispy edges, reheating in a conventional oven or toaster oven is highly recommended. Place individual slices or a few portions on a baking sheet. Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. This method helps to lightly re-crisp the edges and prevents the egg from becoming rubbery.
  • Breakfast Burritos (Creative Repurpose): Crumble a slice of the leftover casserole directly into a warm flour tortilla. You can then customize it with a spoonful of your favorite salsa, a dollop of sour cream, some sliced avocado, or even extra cheese for a brand new, hearty, and incredibly flavorful breakfast on the go.
  • Savory Breakfast Sandwiches (Husband’s Favorite!): My husband absolutely loves transforming leftover casserole into a fantastic breakfast sandwich. Simply tuck a square slice of the casserole between two pieces of toasted bread – perhaps a thick-cut sourdough – and consider adding an extra slice of melty cheese for an even more indulgent experience. It’s a game-changer!

With these simple and effective storage and reheating tips, you can extend the enjoyment of this wonderful Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole throughout your entire week. It stands out as a truly fantastic recipe for meal prepping, ensuring you have a consistently delicious, homemade breakfast or brunch option ready in mere minutes, even on the busiest days.

Customizing Your Egg Bake: Substitutions & Variations

While I firmly believe that this Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole recipe is pretty perfect just as it is, I also understand that every cook loves to infuse their dishes with a personal touch. This casserole, with its robust structure and forgiving nature, serves as an excellent canvas for culinary experimentation. Feel completely free to get creative, adapting the recipe based on your personal preferences, dietary needs, or simply whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand in your kitchen. The core egg-to-milk ratio provides a stable base, welcoming new additions and variations with open arms.

Here are several tried-and-true substitutions and variations that work wonderfully with this dish, allowing you to create your very own signature version. Don’t hesitate to mix and match elements to discover your perfect combination:

  • Switch Up the Meat: If bacon isn’t quite what you’re craving, or if you simply want to try something different, swapping the meat is incredibly easy. Consider using a pound of crumbled breakfast sausage (pork or turkey), spicy chorizo for an extra kick, or finely diced cooked ham. If you opt for sausage or chorizo, be sure to cook it thoroughly until browned and drain any excess grease before adding it to the egg mixture. This prevents the casserole from becoming overly oily.
  • Experiment with Cheeses: While sharp cheddar is my go-to for its bold flavor, many other cheeses are equally delicious in this egg bake. For an additional layer of spice, try Pepper Jack. Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamier alternative that still melts beautifully. If you want to double down on that smoky flavor profile, a smoked gouda or even a smoked cheddar would be an exceptional choice, adding depth and sophistication. A blend of cheeses also works wonderfully!
  • Add More Vegetables: This casserole is a fantastic vehicle for sneaking in extra vegetables or using up those leftover bits from your fridge. Sautéed mushrooms, finely diced bell peppers (any color for a vibrant look), or a generous handful of fresh spinach would all be delightful additions. Remember, it’s crucial to cook these vegetables first to remove their excess moisture before adding them to the egg mixture. This prevents your casserole from becoming watery. Wilted kale, roasted sweet potato cubes, or even corn kernels could also be interesting additions.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Adapting this recipe for a gluten-free diet is straightforward. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite one-to-one gluten-free baking blend. The texture and setting properties will be nearly identical, ensuring a delicious gluten-free breakfast casserole that everyone can enjoy without compromise.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: The beauty of the chipotle pepper is its customizable heat. If you’re a true heat seeker, feel free to add another chipotle pepper, or intentionally leave some of the seeds in for an intensified kick. You could also introduce a finely diced jalapeño alongside the onions during the sautéing step for fresh, vibrant heat. Conversely, if you prefer a milder casserole or are serving those sensitive to spice, you can simply omit the chipotle pepper entirely. The chopped green chilis provide a very mild, earthy flavor without much noticeable heat, so they can generally be kept even for a mild version.

Ultimately, think of this recipe as a flexible template rather than a rigid set of rules. As long as you maintain the crucial egg-to-milk ratio, you have the freedom to customize the fillings to your heart’s content. It’s a fantastic and flavorful way to clean out your refrigerator, reduce food waste, and create a truly unique and personalized meal that reflects your individual taste.

5 FAQs About This Savory Egg Bake Casserole

Here are clear, concise answers to the most frequently asked questions I receive about this delightful Breakfast Egg Bake Casserole recipe. These tips will help you achieve perfect results every time.

Can I make this Egg Bake Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely, and this is truly one of the greatest advantages of this recipe! It’s perfectly designed for advance preparation, making it an absolute lifesaver for busy mornings, holiday breakfasts, or when you’re hosting guests. You can fully assemble the entire casserole the night before you plan to bake it. Just follow all the steps for sautéing the onion and bacon, preparing the egg mixture, combining everything, and pouring it into your baking dish. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It can be stored like this for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, uncover, and pop it into your preheated oven. Because you’re starting with a cold dish, you may need to add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the total baking time. Always rely on the knife test (inserting a knife into the center, if it comes out clean, it’s done) to ensure it’s cooked through.

Why is my Egg Bake Casserole watery or runny?

A watery or runny casserole is a common issue, and it typically stems from one of two main factors: excess moisture from your ingredients or improper baking techniques. Many vegetables, particularly those with high water content like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, release a significant amount of liquid as they cook. It’s crucial to sauté or precook any vegetable additions beforehand to cook out that moisture. In this specific recipe, we intentionally drain the canned green chiles for this very reason. The other culprit can be the baking process itself. If the casserole is undercooked, the egg custard simply hasn’t had enough time to coagulate and set, resulting in a liquidy center. Conversely, sometimes overcooking an egg bake can also cause issues; the proteins in the eggs can seize up and separate, leading to a phenomenon where the casserole “weeps” a watery liquid. Finally, neglecting to let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven is a frequent mistake. That critical resting period allows the custard to finish firming up, ensuring perfectly set, clean slices.

Can I freeze this Egg Bake Casserole?

Yes, this egg bake casserole freezes remarkably well, offering even more convenience for future meals. You have two excellent options for freezing: either before or after baking. To freeze it unbaked, assemble the entire casserole in a freezer-safe baking dish. Then, cover it meticulously with a layer of plastic wrap directly touching the surface, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook it directly from frozen (do not thaw), but you will need to significantly increase the baking time, typically by at least 30 to 40 minutes. Keep it covered with foil for the first half of the baking time to prevent the top from browning too quickly. To freeze a baked casserole, allow it to cool completely first. You can freeze the entire dish or, more conveniently, cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the portions in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the microwave or oven.

What kind of baking dish is best for an Egg Bake Casserole?

The type of baking dish you choose can indeed influence the final outcome of your egg bake. For this particular Egg Bake Casserole recipe, I highly recommend using a standard 9×13 inch ceramic or glass baking dish. These materials are superior because they conduct heat evenly and gently. This gentle, consistent heat is ideal for cooking the egg custard all the way through without burning the edges or bottom, leading to a perfectly set and tender casserole. Furthermore, glass and ceramic dishes retain heat exceptionally well, which helps keep your casserole warm for an extended period if you’re serving it on a buffet or brunch table. You can certainly use a metal baking pan, but you’ll need to be more vigilant about the cooking time. Metal pans conduct heat much more rapidly and intensely than glass or ceramic. This means your casserole may cook faster, and there’s a higher risk of the edges and bottom becoming over-browned or even burnt before the center is fully set. If you opt for a metal pan, I would advise checking for doneness about 5 to 10 minutes earlier than the recipe specifies.

How do I know when my Egg Bake Casserole is fully cooked?

Knowing precisely when to pull your Egg Bake Casserole out of the oven is crucial for achieving that perfect, creamy, yet firm texture. There are several reliable signs to look for. First, always perform a visual check. The casserole should appear puffed up, particularly around the edges, and its top should boast a beautiful golden-brown hue. You might also notice that the edges have started to pull away slightly from the sides of the dish. A second excellent indicator is the “jiggle test”: gently shake the baking pan. The center of the casserole should be firm and not visibly jiggle or slosh, indicating that the eggs have set. However, the most foolproof and accurate method is the knife test. Carefully insert the tip of a thin, sharp knife into the very center of the casserole. If the knife comes out perfectly clean, with no wet, liquid egg clinging to it, then your casserole is thoroughly cooked and ready. If you see any uncooked egg mixture, simply return it to the oven for another 5 minutes and test it again. Once these signs are met, you can confidently remove your stunning casserole from the oven and proceed to the vital resting step.

HUNGRY FOR MORE?

{click images to get recipes}

Brown Sugar French Toast

Crustless Sausage & Veggie Quiche

I made this recipe again in August of 2013 and took new photos. The photos you see now are the new photos.