Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole
Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fluffy eggs all baked together into one delicious meal. It’s the kind of…
Tip: save now, cook later.Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and fluffy eggs all baked together into one delicious meal. It’s the kind of breakfast that fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and makes everyone eager to dig in. The combination of salty bacon with tender, golden potatoes and soft scrambled eggs is just unbeatable on a chilly morning.
I love making this casserole when I have a little extra time on weekend mornings, and I like how easy it is to prep ahead the night before. Mixing everything in a big dish and popping it in the oven feels like a simple act of magic, especially when it turns out perfectly golden on top and warm all the way through. Plus, I’m always happy that it feeds a crowd, so everyone at the table gets a taste of everything without fussing with separate pans or plates.
My favorite way to serve this breakfast casserole is with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad to add a little brightness to the meal. It’s cozy and filling but still leaves room for something light on the side. Whenever I make it, I know it’s going to be a hit with family and friends, especially when everyone reaches for seconds. This casserole just feels like a warm, friendly hug at the start of the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds great flavor and crispiness here. For a healthier option, try turkey bacon or diced ham. If you want it meat-free, smoked paprika can mimic some smoky notes.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work well since they hold up when cooked but get tender inside. If fresh potatoes aren’t available, frozen diced potatoes can save time.
Eggs: Eggs bind and give the casserole its fluffy texture. If you want lower cholesterol, use egg whites or an egg substitute, but the dish will be less rich.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds melty, tangy flavor. Try gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella as tasty alternatives depending on what you like or have on hand.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon and Tender Potatoes Without Overcooking?
The secret is to cook the bacon first until it’s crisp, then use the bacon fat to cook the potatoes. This adds flavor and helps brown them without needing extra oil.
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, then remove with a slotted spoon.
- Add butter or oil if needed and cook diced potatoes in the bacon fat until golden and tender, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Putting cooked potatoes and bacon into the casserole means they won’t overcook while baking, keeping texture perfect.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – perfect size to hold all the ingredients and bake evenly.
- Large skillet – great for cooking bacon and potatoes in one pan, saving cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – for whisking eggs and milk smoothly together.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs and milk without lumps.
- Slotted spoon – handy for removing crispy bacon while leaving the fat behind.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for cooked sausage or diced ham for a different meaty flavor.
- Add bell peppers or spinach for extra color and a fresh veggie boost.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for a deep, earthy taste that pairs nicely with potatoes.
Bacon Potato Egg Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 8 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil (for cooking potatoes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, including cooking the bacon and potatoes, then about 30 minutes baking time. Plan for a total of around 45 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious breakfast casserole hot from the oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook the Bacon and Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it’s crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and leave the bacon fat in the skillet. Add the butter or oil if needed, then add the diced potatoes. Cook the potatoes for about 10-12 minutes until tender and slightly golden, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Remove from heat.
2. Mix the Eggs and Assemble the Casserole:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth. Spread the cooked potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the layers. Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top.
3. Bake and Serve:
Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden. For an extra eggy touch, you can crack a couple of whole eggs on top about 10 minutes before baking finishes and continue baking until those eggs are set. When done, remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped green onions before cutting into squares and serving warm.
Can I Use Frozen Potatoes Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen diced potatoes work well and save prep time. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the casserole.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want a different flavor, cooked sausage or ham are great options. For a vegetarian twist, try smoked paprika or smoky tempeh for that rich, smoky taste.