Breakfast Egg Bake For A Crowd
Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Collection
I absolutely love making a hearty breakfast for gatherings, and this Breakfast Egg Bake For A Crowd is a perfect solution. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, and the flavors meld beautifully as it bakes. Imagine biting into fluffy eggs combined with veggies, cheese, and your choice of meats, all perfectly seasoned. It's a crowd-pleaser that can be prepped the night before, making mornings stress-free and allowing everyone to enjoy a delayed brunch. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
When I first made this Breakfast Egg Bake, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it was. I experimented with different combinations of vegetables and meats, and it turned out that bell peppers and spinach are my favorites. Not only do they add vibrant color, but they also bring a fresh taste that complements the creamy eggs beautifully.
One tip I discovered is to let the egg bake sit for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. This allows it to set nicely, making serving much easier without losing its shape. It's a fantastic way to start any gathering!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Perfectly fluffy eggs that everyone will enjoy
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients
- Can be made ahead of time for convenience
- Feed a crowd with minimal effort
Perfecting Your Egg Bake
To achieve the light and fluffy texture that makes this Breakfast Egg Bake a hit, it's crucial to whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly until the mixture is homogeneously blended. This not only ensures even cooking but also allows the eggs to aerate, resulting in a delightful rise during baking. I recommend using a whisk rather than a fork for better incorporation of air, aiming for a smooth texture without any lumps.
The choice of vegetables plays a significant role in both flavor and texture. Diced bell peppers add a sweet crunch while the spinach contributes a lovely earthiness. A tip is to sauté the firmer vegetables like bell peppers and onions briefly before adding them to the egg mixture; this not only enhances their flavors but also helps release excess moisture, preventing a soggy bake.
Seasoning and Flavor Boosts
While the salt and pepper will enhance the dish, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra flavor dimension. These herbs complement the eggs beautifully and enhance the overall aroma of your breakfast bake. Fresh herbs can be added directly to the egg mixture, while dried herbs should be added early on to allow their flavors to infuse.
If you opt for cheese, consider using a mix—sharp cheddar for tang, mozzarella for creaminess, or even feta for a Mediterranean twist. Be mindful of the amount; too much cheese can weigh down the eggs. A good balance would be to use one cup of shredded cheese mixed into the batter and a sprinkle on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or sausage (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
These ingredients will help you create a delicious Breakfast Egg Bake.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your egg bake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Ingredients
Add cheese, vegetables, and meat to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Pour into Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Enjoy your delicious Breakfast Egg Bake!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and proteins. You can also substitute the cheese for a dairy-free option if desired.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This Breakfast Egg Bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To do this, prepare the bake as usual, allow it to cool completely, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to serve, reheat portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This makes it a fantastic option for busy mornings.
If you prefer to freeze it, consider cutting the egg bake into individual servings before freezing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring you maintain that fluffy texture. Be cautious when reheating from frozen, as it may take longer.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for plenty of customization. If you're catering to dietary restrictions, try using egg substitutes or tofu scramble for a vegan option. Swap the milk with unsweetened almond milk or any dairy-free alternative to maintain the creamy consistency without the dairy.
For a Mexican twist, incorporate ingredients such as diced jalapeños, black beans, and pepper jack cheese. Top the baked dish with avocado and fresh salsa to elevate the dish further. Alternatively, experimenting with different meats, like turkey sausage or bacon, can add a new flavor profile each time you make it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this egg bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning when you're ready.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave.
→ Can I freeze this Breakfast Egg Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just portion it into slices and wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
→ What’s a good serving suggestion?
Serve this dish with fresh fruit, toast, or a simple green salad for a balanced breakfast.
Breakfast Egg Bake For A Crowd
I absolutely love making a hearty breakfast for gatherings, and this Breakfast Egg Bake For A Crowd is a perfect solution. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, and the flavors meld beautifully as it bakes. Imagine biting into fluffy eggs combined with veggies, cheese, and your choice of meats, all perfectly seasoned. It's a crowd-pleaser that can be prepped the night before, making mornings stress-free and allowing everyone to enjoy a delayed brunch. Trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Home Comfort Food Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or sausage (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
Add cheese, vegetables, and meat to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and proteins. You can also substitute the cheese for a dairy-free option if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 24g