Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole

Turn your favorite childhood sandwich into a cozy morning meal with this Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole! Packed with golden bread, gooey melted cheese, and fluffy eggs, this baked dish is hearty, easy to prepare, and sure to become a breakfast favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning a make-ahead brunch, this casserole has all the classic comfort of grilled cheese—baked to perfection.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic Comfort – Grilled cheese flavor in a warm, savory bake.
Easy to Make – Minimal prep with simple ingredients.
Great for Groups – Perfect for brunch parties and family gatherings.
Make-Ahead Option – Assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
Kid-Approved – Cheesy, buttery, and irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

• 1 loaf thick-cut white or sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup cooked chopped beef bacon or breakfast sausage
• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms or spinach
• ¼ cup green onions or fresh herbs

For Garnish:

• Extra shredded cheese
• Chopped parsley or chives

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (for covering)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Cheese

1. Lightly toast the bread cubes or use slightly stale bread for best texture.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer in half the bread.
3. Sprinkle with half the cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Repeat layers with remaining bread and cheese.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
5. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and cheese.
7. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Chill or Bake
8. For best results, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
9. If baking immediately, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Uncover casserole, sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.
12. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
13. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
14. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
15. Serve warm with fruit, salad, or crispy potatoes.

Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese Casserole
Use Day-Old Bread – It soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
Customize – Add cooked vegetables or proteins to fit your taste.
Let It Rest – This ensures clean slices and a well-set casserole.
Toast the Bread – Adds extra flavor and prevents sogginess.
Chill Before Baking – Enhances texture and melds flavors.

Serving Suggestions
Brunch Platter – Serve alongside fruit salad and muffins.
Quick Lunch – Pair with tomato soup for a grilled cheese twist.
Dinner Side – Accompany roasted veggies or a light salad.
Portable Meal – Slice and store for easy weekday breakfasts.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Cover leftovers and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze fully baked and cooled slices wrapped in foil for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices for 30–45 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Absolutely—try Swiss, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
2. Is it okay to skip the mustard?
   Yes, but it adds a subtle tang that balances the richness.
3. Can I make this vegetarian?
   Yes! Simply omit any meat and add more veggies.
4. How do I know it’s done baking?
   The center should be firm, not jiggly, and a knife inserted should come out clean.

Final Thoughts
Grilled Cheese Breakfast Casserole brings together everything you love about comfort food in one cozy, cheesy dish. With golden bread, creamy eggs, and melty cheese, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Whether you’re prepping for brunch or enjoying a lazy weekend breakfast, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see how yours turns out.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 19g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 530mg

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