The Egg and Cheese Bread Bake is a marvel of simplicity and taste, turning everyday ingredients into a sumptuous breakfast or brunch treat. Each slice of crusty bread soaks up the rich egg mixture, topped with melted cheddar, fresh tomatoes, and green onions, resulting in a dish that’s both visually appealing and delightfully satisfying.
This recipe is perfect for those mornings when you want something hearty yet quick, or for impressing guests without a fuss. The golden, crispy edges of the bread provide the perfect texture contrast to the soft, flavorful topping of cheese and egg. It’s a versatile dish that invites variations—add different cheeses, vegetables, or even some cooked bacon to make it your own.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- Half a loaf of bread (preferably a crusty variety)
- 150 grams cheddar cheese, grated
- 6 cherry tomatoes, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 4 eggs
- 120 ml milk
- 50 grams butter, diced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the bread into thick slices and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over each slice of bread.
- Top with slices of cherry tomatoes and chopped green onions.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cheese and bread slices.
- Dot each slice with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the bread is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and then slice into portions.
- Prep Time:10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 350 per serving | Servings: 4
Why This Dish Works
This Egg and Cheese Bread Bake brings together the comforting textures and flavors of toasted bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture, sharp cheddar cheese, and the freshness of cherry tomatoes and green onions. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for endless variations and can cater to a range of dietary preferences and meal times.
The Magic of Simple Ingredients
- Bread: The foundation of this bake, a good quality, crusty bread, such as a baguette or artisan loaf, works best as it holds up well under the egg mixture and achieves a satisfying crunch.
- Cheddar Cheese: Known for its melting quality and sharp flavor, cheddar adds depth and richness to the dish. You can substitute cheddar with any other good melting cheese such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack to vary the flavor profile.
- Cherry Tomatoes and Green Onions: These add a burst of freshness, color, and slight acidity which balances the richness of the cheese and eggs. Feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to incorporate more vegetables into the meal.
- Eggs and Milk: The combination acts as a custard base, bringing all the components together. The eggs puff up during baking, creating a light and airy texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy bread.
Nutritional Highlights
This bake is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients:
- Protein-rich: Eggs and cheese provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium Source: Cheese is an excellent source of calcium, necessary for strong bones and teeth.
- Fiber Boost: Using whole grain bread can increase the fiber content, which helps in digestion and prolonged satiety.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
- Pre-toast the Bread: For an extra crispy base, lightly toast the bread slices in the oven before adding the cheese and eggs.
- Even Pour: Ensure the egg mixture is evenly poured so that each piece of bread soaks up the custard, resulting in a uniformly moist and flavorful bite.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on the bake during the final minutes as ovens can vary. You want the eggs set and the edges golden but not burnt.
Serving Suggestions
While fantastic on its own, you can enhance this Egg and Cheese Bread Bake by serving it with:
- A side salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon pairs wonderfully.
- Meats: Serve with sides of bacon, sausage, or smoked salmon for added protein.
- Sauces: Offer hot sauce, ketchup, or a dollop of crème fraîche on the side for extra flavor.
Make It Ahead
For those busy mornings, you can prepare this dish the night before. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply preheat your oven and bake. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Execution Every Time
Achieving perfection with this bake is all about mastering a few simple techniques:
- Ingredient Layering: Layering the ingredients correctly ensures each slice is packed with flavor. Start with cheese on the bread to create a moisture barrier that keeps the bread from becoming too soggy, then add your vegetables, and finally pour over the egg mixture.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake until the top is golden and crispy around the edges, and the center is set but still slightly soft. This ensures a creamy interior without overcooking the eggs.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This rest period allows the eggs to set completely and makes the bake easier to slice and serve.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can turn simple dishes into extraordinary experiences. Here are a few ideas to enhance the visual appeal and serving style of your Egg and Cheese Bread Bake:
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor boost. A light grating of extra cheese on top right after baking can also add to the richness.
- Serve Warm: This dish is best served warm, offering a comforting and satisfying experience. Pair it with a hot beverage like coffee or tea to complement the meal.
- Individual Servings: Consider baking individual portions in smaller ramekins or baking cups for personalized servings. This not only looks impressive but also makes it convenient for guests to enjoy.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
The Egg and Cheese Bread Bake is more than just a recipe—it’s a versatile foundation that invites creativity and personalization. It’s perfect for almost any occasion, from a lazy Sunday brunch to a festive breakfast gathering. Easy to prepare, delightful to eat, and satisfying for a crowd, this bake is sure to earn a place in your favorite recipe collection. It combines the simplicity of ingredients with culinary creativity, offering a warm, comforting start to any day.