Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole

Name: Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1–2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tsp salt (divided); 9 oz (250g) streaky bacon, chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 2 cups grated cheddar cheese; 5 eggs; ½ cup milk; ¾ cup heavy/whipping cream; 1 tsp black pepper

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There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of crispy bacon and melted cheese mingling with golden potatoes. This Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole is one of those dishes that instantly brings warmth and comfort to any breakfast table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a meal ahead of time for a stress-free morning, this recipe is an absolute winner.

What makes this dish perfect for beginners? It’s simple, requires minimal hands-on time, and is easy to customize. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the baking process does most of the work for you. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftovers and experiment with flavors!

Why This Recipe is Special

This cheesy breakfast casserole stands out because it offers the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors. Golden roasted potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese all come together in one dish that’s hearty and satisfying. Unlike many breakfast recipes that require flipping pancakes or standing over a stove, this one allows you to prep, bake, and enjoy with minimal fuss.

Another highlight? It’s highly customizable! You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer turkey bacon, add extra veggies, or swap cheddar for gouda, this casserole adapts beautifully.

Ingredients and Their Roles

This recipe calls for simple, accessible ingredients, each playing a key role:

Eggs – The base that binds everything together, creating a fluffy and creamy texture.

Milk & Heavy Cream – These add richness and ensure the casserole stays moist rather than dry.
Potatoes – The heart of the dish, providing a crispy texture and a comforting, starchy bite. You can swap in sweet potatoes or hash browns for variety.
Bacon – Adds a salty, smoky crunch that elevates the dish. Turkey bacon or sausage are great alternatives.

Onions & Garlic – These aromatics deepen the flavor and make the dish more savory.
Cheese – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully, but you can experiment with Swiss, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Seasonings (Salt & Black Pepper) – Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

Want a healthier version? Use turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, and reduce the heavy cream.
Looking for more veggies? Add spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or kale for extra nutrients.
Need a gluten-free option? This casserole is naturally gluten-free as long as no bread-based fillings are added.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss the cubed potatoes with a bit of olive oil and salt, then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 30 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: While the potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chopped bacon and onions together until the bacon is crispy. Add garlic and sauté for another 20 seconds, then remove from heat.

Step 3: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the roasted potatoes, the bacon-onion mixture, and half of the cheese.

Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the casserole dish.

Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If you saved some extra bacon, sprinkle it over the top as well.

Step 6: Bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set for easy serving.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Casserole is too watery – If using frozen potatoes, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding. Also, sauté any vegetables before adding them to remove excess moisture.
Eggs look overcooked or rubbery – Avoid overbaking. Once the top is golden and the center is firm, remove from the oven.

Cheese browns too quickly – If the top is browning too fast but the eggs aren’t set, cover the casserole with foil and continue baking.

Smart Kitchen Tips

Make it ahead – Prepare everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
Easy cleanup – Use a disposable foil pan if making this for a potluck or meal prep to minimize dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy bacon potato breakfast casserole pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh fruit salad – The freshness balances out the richness of the dish.
A simple green salad – A lemony vinaigrette complements the creamy casserole.

Toast or bagels – For a classic breakfast combination.
Hot sauce or salsa – If you like a spicy kick!

Storage and Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until hot.

This easy sheet pan breakfast casserole is a perfect quick and healthy meal to start your day right. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting a brunch, this lemon herb chicken recipe – wait, wrong recipe – but seriously, this cheesy bacon potato breakfast casserole will be a hit!

Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear about your favorite variations! Happy cooking!

FAQ About Cheesy Bacon Potato Breakfast Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh in the morning, or freeze it for up to two months for later use.

Why is my breakfast casserole soggy?

Excess moisture from frozen potatoes or uncooked vegetables can make the casserole watery. Always roast fresh potatoes and sauté vegetables before adding them to the dish.

Can I use hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?

Absolutely! Frozen or fresh hash browns work well, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

What other proteins can I use besides bacon?

You can substitute turkey bacon, cooked breakfast sausage, ham, or even plant-based sausage for a meat-free option.

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