Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, savory breakfast that brings the ooey-gooey goodness of grilled cheese sandwiches to a whole new level, then you will absolutely fall in love with this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe. It’s a delightful twist that transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, cheesy, and satisfying morning masterpiece. Imagine buttery grilled cheese bites nestled in a rich egg custard with just the right hints of seasoning, creating a perfect melody of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, using everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each item plays a key role in delivering that perfect balance of creamy, crispy, and cheesy goodness.
- 8 slices white or sourdough bread (buttered on one side): The sturdy base that crisps up beautifully and holds all the cheesy goodness.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty for that signature grilled cheese flavor.
- 6 large eggs: The rich binder that brings everything together in a custardy embrace.
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps the casserole set perfectly without drying out.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, making every bite more satisfying.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just a pinch to add mild warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle savory note that enhances the overall taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a smoky touch that elevates the dish with a hint of complexity.
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage crumbles (optional): For an irresistible meaty boost and extra heartiness.
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing): Keeps the casserole from sticking and adds a little extra richness.
How to Make Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Sandwiches
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, create your grilled cheese sandwiches by assembling the shredded cheddar cheese between slices of bread, with the buttered sides facing outward to get that golden crust. Cook them on a skillet over medium heat for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the bread is perfectly toasted and the cheese has melted into a gooey delight. Once done, let them cool just enough to handle, then cut each sandwich into four bite-sized quarters—these tasty chunks are going to be the heart of your casserole!
Step 2: Arrange and Mix the Egg Mixture
Now, place your grilled cheese quarters evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a flavorful grid. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. If you’ve opted for bacon or sausage, stir those in here as well to distribute the meatiness throughout the mixture. Pour this custardy blend over the grilled cheese pieces in the dish, then gently press down slightly so the bread soaks up all that delicious egg mixture, ensuring every bite stays moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Cover the casserole with foil and pop it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. This initial phase gently cooks the eggs without drying out the top. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know your casserole is ready when it’s puffed up and set in the center, with a golden, inviting appearance. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to allow everything to settle—plus, this brief wait helps with cleaner slices and maximum enjoyment!
How to Serve Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra layer of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa adds a tangy brightness that contrasts wonderfully with the rich, cheesy flavors. You can even add a few drops of hot sauce if you’re a fan of a little kick in your morning meal.
Side Dishes
Pair this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe with light, refreshing sides to keep the meal balanced. Consider a crisp mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette, fresh fruit salad bursting with seasonal sweetness, or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and asparagus for a colorful companion. These options complement the dish without overpowering the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Take things up a notch by serving individual portions in cute ramekins for a charming presentation at brunch. You can also layer the casserole in mini mason jars for grab-and-go options or assemble it the night before and bake it in muffin tins for perfectly portioned breakfast bites. This recipe is so versatile, it’s perfect for impressing friends and family whether casual or festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully when refrigerated. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it super convenient for quick weekday breakfasts or second-helpings. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this casserole later, freezing is a smart option. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use freezer-safe containers to avoid freezer burn. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to keep the custard texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm a slice gently in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through. Covering with foil during reheating helps prevent drying out. The result is almost as good as fresh, making leftovers just as enjoyable the next day.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a wonderfully sharp and melty flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for stretchiness, pepper jack for some spice, or a blend of your favorites to customize the taste exactly to your liking.
Is it necessary to grill the sandwiches before adding them to the casserole?
Grilling the sandwiches first creates that signature crispy, buttery exterior and melted cheese center, which adds incredible texture and flavor. Skipping this step might result in a softer texture that lacks the classic grilled cheese charm.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the bacon or sausage crumbles and add extra veggies like spinach, diced tomatoes, or mushrooms for a fresh, vegetarian-friendly version without losing any of the deliciousness.
What’s the best bread to use for this recipe?
Both white and sourdough breads work well. Sourdough adds a subtle tang and a bit more chew, while classic white bread offers a softer, more neutral base. Just make sure to butter one side of each slice for that golden, crispy finish.
Can the casserole be assembled the night before?
Yes! One of the best parts of this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is that it can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready, bake as directed for a fresh, effortless morning meal.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe is truly a breakfast game-changer that combines nostalgic flavors with the ease of a make-ahead casserole. It’s warm, comforting, and bursting with cheesy goodness—ideal for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy start to the day. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your morning routine!
Print
Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
A comforting and savory breakfast casserole combining the classic flavors of grilled cheese sandwiches with a rich, custardy egg mixture. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or brunch, this dish features buttery grilled cheese bites soaked in seasoned eggs and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Bread and Cheese
- 8 slices white or sourdough bread, buttered on one side
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Protein (Optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon or sausage crumbles (optional)
Other
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing the baking dish and bread)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking during baking.
- Make Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Butter one side of each bread slice. Place shredded cheddar cheese between pairs of bread slices with buttered sides facing out. Grill each sandwich on a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted completely. Once grilled, let them cool slightly to firm up, then cut each sandwich into four quarters.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the grilled cheese quarters evenly in the prepared baking dish, layering them as needed to fill the dish.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using) until fully combined. If you choose to include protein, stir in the cooked bacon or sausage crumbles now.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the grilled cheese pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread pieces to help them absorb the egg custard for a more cohesive casserole texture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the egg mixture to set and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden on top, and fully set in the center.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing into squares and serving warm. This resting period helps the casserole firm up for cleaner slices.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; assemble fully, cover, and refrigerate overnight before baking the next morning.
- Feel free to customize with vegetables like fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced tomatoes added to the egg mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use gluten-free bread to adapt for gluten sensitivity.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon or sausage crumbles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
