Name: Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices white or sourdough bread (buttered on one side); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 6 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard; 4 slices cooked bacon (chopped); 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)

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If you’re searching for the ultimate brunch showstopper that brings together gooey cheese, crispy bread, and fluffy eggs, look no further than this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole. Imagine everything you love about a classic grilled cheese, but transformed into a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast bake. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or want to make mornings extra special, this casserole delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole calls for simple, familiar ingredients, but each one plays a key role in creating those layers of cheesy, savory goodness. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why you’ll love it:

White or sourdough bread (8 slices, buttered on one side): The foundation of your casserole; buttered for golden, crisp edges and soft on the inside.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheesy pull in every bite.
Large eggs (6): The heart of the custard, binding everything together and creating a fluffy, tender texture.
Whole milk (1 1/2 cups): Adds creaminess and richness to the egg mixture, ensuring a soft set.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out all the savory flavors and balances the richness.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of warmth and spice that perks up the eggs.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Subtle depth and savory, aromatic undertones.
Dry mustard (1/4 teaspoon): A classic grilled cheese secret, adding gentle tang and complexity.
Cooked bacon (4 slices, chopped): Smoky, salty crunch that makes every forkful extra special.
Chopped chives or green onions (2 tablespoons, optional): Fresh, colorful garnish that adds a mild oniony bite.

How to Make Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Start by assembling four grilled cheese sandwiches with your buttered bread and plenty of shredded cheddar. Pop them into a hot skillet, buttered side down, and cook until each side is gloriously golden and the cheese inside is melted and gooey. Let the sandwiches cool for a few minutes so they’re easier to handle.

Step 2: Cut and Arrange in Baking Dish

Once your grilled cheese sandwiches have cooled slightly, cut each one into quarters. Arrange the sandwich pieces in a single layer in your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This forms the irresistible, cheesy base of your Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole.

Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard until completely smooth and well combined. This savory custard will soak into the grilled cheese pieces, creating a rich, fluffy texture throughout the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble and Rest

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the arranged sandwich quarters, making sure every piece gets a good soak. Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the top, then gently press the sandwiches down with a spatula to help them fully absorb the custard. Let the dish rest for 15 minutes (or cover and refrigerate overnight if you’re prepping ahead) so the flavors can meld.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t already. Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is beautifully golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes so the slices hold together nicely.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Scatter chopped chives or green onions over the top for a pop of freshness and color. Now your Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole is ready to slice and serve—prepare for smiles all around!

How to Serve Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Garnishes

Garnishing can take this casserole from cozy to absolutely stunning. A shower of fresh chives or green onions adds a burst of color and a gentle onion flavor that complements the cheesy, savory layers. For a bit of heat, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce right before serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s also fantastic with a few simple sides. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast. Roasted potatoes or a bowl of tomato soup are also wonderful companions, especially if you’re serving Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole for brunch or a special breakfast-for-dinner night.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re in the mood to impress, try baking the casserole in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings. For a brunch buffet, cut the casserole into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter with toothpicks and a side of dipping sauce, like herbed aioli or classic ketchup. The possibilities are endless, and this dish is always a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store any remaining Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to three days and makes a fantastic next-day breakfast or savory snack.

Freezing

This casserole freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap individual slices (or the whole dish) tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and warm in 30-second intervals until hot. For a crispier texture, pop slices into a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Either way, your Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole will taste just as incredible as the day you baked it.

FAQs

Can I make Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, letting the casserole rest overnight in the fridge allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up even more of the delicious egg mixture. Just cover tightly and bake in the morning for an easy, make-ahead breakfast.

What other cheeses can I use?

While classic cheddar is always a crowd-pleaser, feel free to substitute or mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or mozzarella for different flavors and textures.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the bacon or swap it out for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes. The Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole is flexible enough to accommodate your favorite veggies.

Does the bread have to be white or sourdough?

Not at all. You can use any sturdy bread you love—whole wheat, multigrain, or even a rustic country loaf. Just make sure it’s buttered on one side for that classic grilled cheese flavor and crunch.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is ready when the eggs are set (no longer jiggly in the center) and the top is golden brown. If you want to be extra sure, insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, ease, and undeniable deliciousness, you simply have to try Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole. It’s a warm, cheesy hug in casserole form and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!

Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A savory and comforting Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole that combines crispy grilled cheese sandwiches with a rich egg custard, bacon, and melted cheddar. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, this make-ahead casserole is easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread & Cheese

8 slices white or sourdough bread (buttered on one side)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Egg Mixture

6 large eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

Toppings & Garnishes

4 slices cooked bacon (chopped)
2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Make grilled cheese sandwiches: Assemble 4 grilled cheese sandwiches using the buttered bread and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy on both sides. Allow them to cool slightly.
Cut and layer sandwiches: Cut each grilled cheese sandwich into quarters and arrange all the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Whisk egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dry mustard until smooth and fully combined.
Pour egg mixture over sandwiches: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the sandwich pieces in the baking dish, ensuring the bread is well soaked.
Add bacon and press down: Sprinkle the chopped cooked bacon over the top. Gently press the sandwich pieces down to help them absorb more of the egg mixture.
Rest the casserole: Cover the dish and let it rest at room temperature for 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option, allowing the bread to fully soak up the custard.
Bake the casserole: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until the egg is fully set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before garnishing with chopped chives or green onions, then serve warm for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Notes

Swap bacon for sausage or omit the meat to make a vegetarian version.
Add diced tomatoes or spinach to the egg mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
Use sourdough for a tangier flavor or white bread for a classic taste.
For a crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American