This Brunch Bake is a cozy dish filled with eggs, cheese, and whatever veggies or meats you love! It’s baked until warm and golden, making it perfect for a lazy weekend morning.
Honestly, it’s like breakfast and lunch had a delicious baby! I love serving it with fresh fruit or a light salad to balance things out. Easy peasy and oh-so-tasty! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: The stars of the dish! Fresh eggs bring richness and fluffiness. If you’re out, you can use egg substitutes or aquafaba for a vegan option.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You can swap it for mozzarella for a milder taste or a dairy-free cheese to keep it vegan.
Ham & Bacon: Diced ham gives great texture and flavor. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try mushrooms or tofu instead. For a different taste, consider using cooked sausage.
Hash Browns: Frozen hash browns work well, but you can use fresh shredded potatoes instead. Just be sure to squeeze out excess water if using fresh!
Vegetables: Onions and bell peppers are classic, but feel free to toss in spinach, zucchini, or any leftover veggies. They add nutrition and color!
How to Ensure a Perfectly Set Bake?
One of the essential steps in this recipe is ensuring your bake is set perfectly. Follow these tips to achieve the ideal texture:
- Mix your egg mixture well. Make sure all ingredients blend evenly to prevent any ingredient from settling at the bottom.
- Check for doneness around the 35-minute mark. If the center wobbles, it needs more time. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly after being pulled from the oven.
- If you prefer runny yolks on top, cover them loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
- Let the bake rest for at least 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This makes slicing much easier!
Brunch Bake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ham, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup hash browns or shredded potatoes, thawed if frozen
- ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 slices bacon (for lining the baking dish)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh chives
For Greasing:
- Olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Brunch Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to bake it for about 35-45 minutes. So plan for a total time of around 1 hour, plus some resting time before slicing and serving. Perfect for a relaxed weekend brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, take an 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with a bit of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Create the Bacon Crust:
Now, take your 4 slices of bacon and line the bottom and sides of the baking dish. Slightly overlap them to create a lovely “crust.” This will give your bake a fantastic flavor and a beautiful look!
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack open those 8 eggs and pour in the milk. Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Whisk them together until everything is blended and smooth—this is where the magic begins!
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Next, stir in the diced ham, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, hash browns, chopped onion, and green bell pepper (if you’re using it). Mix well so all the ingredients are evenly coated in that fluffy egg mixture.
5. Pour it All In:
Carefully pour the delicious egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This step is crucial for even cooking!
6. Top it Off!
For a fun touch, crack open 1 or 2 whole eggs on top of the mixture, spacing them out as you like. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. If you’ve used whole eggs on top, their whites should be fully cooked, while the yolks can remain runny or cooked as you prefer.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the Brunch Bake cool for a few minutes. Then sprinkle fresh chives over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Using a sharp knife, slice the bake into squares or rectangles. Serve warm alongside a fresh salad, sliced tomatoes, or your favorite breakfast goodies like croissants or more bacon. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy Brunch Bake that’s perfect for any weekend or holiday brunch!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Brunch Bake?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can use mozzarella for a milder flavor, pepper jack for a kick, or even a mix of your favorites. Just make sure they melt well for the best results.
Can I Prepare This Brunch Bake in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the mixture the night before and store it covered in the fridge. In the morning, simply pour it into the bacon-lined dish and bake. This makes for an easy, stress-free brunch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of oil before reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Of course! Omit the ham and bacon, and consider adding more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You could also add crumbled feta or a different cheese for added flavor!
