Print

Make-Ahead Denver Breakfast Casserole

Make-Ahead Denver Breakfast Casserole - featured image

A sturdy, flavorful overnight breakfast casserole featuring savory ham, sweet peppers, and cheesy eggs on a bed of custard-soaked bread. Perfect for busy mornings or holiday brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 810 cups)
  • 8 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup smoked ham, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and let air dry for 10 minutes.
  3. Sauté onion and bell pepper in butter over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add garlic in the last minute. Cool completely.
  4. Layer half the bread, half the ham, half the vegetables, and half the cheese in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
  5. Whisk eggs, milk, cream, mustard powder, pepper, and salt until frothy.
  6. Pour egg mixture over layers, pressing down to submerge bread. Let sit for 10 minutes.
  7. Cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours (or bake immediately).
  8. Remove from fridge 30 minutes before baking. Bake at 350°F for 35-45 minutes until center is set and top is golden.
  9. Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture. Sautéing vegetables prevents a watery casserole. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil. Can be refrigerated overnight or frozen unbaked for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: breakfast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, Denver omelet casserole, brunch recipe, egg casserole, holiday breakfast