This Cheesy Egg Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and your choice of add-ins. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this easy recipe is versatile, customizable, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (120 g) diced ham, cooked sausage, or cooked bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup (60 g) chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
- Whisk the Eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and any optional add-ins like ham, bacon, or vegetables.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, and sprinkle with chopped chives or parsley. Slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with toast or bagels for a hearty breakfast.
- Pair with a side salad for a light lunch or dinner.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.
- Serve with roasted potatoes or hash browns for a complete meal.
- Enjoy with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
Cooking Tips:
- Use whole milk or cream for a richer, creamier bake.
- Customize with your favorite cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- If using watery vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
- Make ahead by preparing the mixture the night before and baking in the morning.
- Let the bake cool slightly before slicing for cleaner portions.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from eggs and cheese.
- Low in carbohydrates, making it keto-friendly.
- A great way to add vegetables to your meal.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-free
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Vegetarian-friendly (omit meat add-ins)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal effort.
- Versatile and customizable with your favorite add-ins.
- Perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd.
- A rich, creamy, and satisfying dish for any time of day.
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Egg Bake is a simple and delicious recipe that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a quick and hearty dinner, this dish delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. Give it a try today and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before and bake fresh in the morning. - What other cheeses can I use?
Swiss, gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent substitutes. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding broccoli, zucchini, or onions. - How do I prevent the bake from being watery?
Sauté vegetables with high water content before adding them to the mixture. - Can I make this dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free milk alternative and vegan cheese substitutes. - What meats work best in this recipe?
Ham, sausage, and bacon are classic choices, but turkey or chicken sausage work well too. - How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should be set and a knife inserted into the middle should come out clean. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a larger dish and increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes. - What can I serve this with?
Pair with fresh fruit, salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal. - How long does this bake stay fresh?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it reheats beautifully.