Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake
Highlighted under: Healthy Eats
I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake has become a go-to for busy mornings. I can prepare it in advance and just pop it into the oven when I’m ready to eat. With a mix of eggs, veggies, and cheese, it’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein. The best part is that you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This dish has transformed my mornings and made breakfast both easy and delicious!
When I first tried making the Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake, I was amazed at how versatile and easy it was. I had some leftover vegetables from dinner, and I thought, why not? By mixing in fresh herbs and cheeses I loved, I created a dish that felt unique every time. Baking it in a large dish helped the flavors meld beautifully, and cutting it into squares made for perfect portions!
One tip I found especially helpful is to let it cool completely before cutting. This not only helps the bake hold its shape but also enhances the flavors as they settle. I often prepare it the night before and simply warm it up the next morning for a delightful start to the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly seasoned eggs combined with your favorite veggies
- Easy to prepare in advance for a hassle-free breakfast
- Customizable ingredients to fit any taste or dietary need
Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients
When preparing your Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake, the choice of vegetables can greatly enhance the dish’s flavor profile. Fresh, seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and spinach not only add vibrant color but also contribute essential nutrients. For a more robust flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in a little olive oil before adding them to the egg mixture. This technique helps to soften any tough veggies and builds a deeper, caramelized flavor that complements the eggs beautifully.
If you're looking to incorporate herbs, fresh or dried herbs like basil or thyme can elevate the dish further. Adding a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs into the egg mixture will infuse a lovely fragrant aroma as it bakes. Alternatively, for a pop of freshness, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley over the top just before serving.
Tailoring Ingredients for Dietary Needs
One of the greatest advantages of the Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake is its versatility. If you're catering to a specific dietary requirement, various substitutions can be made without compromising taste. For a dairy-free option, swap the milk and cheese for almond milk and a plant-based cheese. This way, you can still enjoy creamy textures while accommodating lactose intolerances.
Are you following a low-carb diet? You can easily replace the starchy vegetables like potatoes with leafy greens like kale or zucchini. This keeps the dish flavorful and nutritious while reducing carb content. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from zucchini, as it can water down the egg mixture if not properly handled.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions, etc.)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Add the Veggies and Cheese
Stir in the chopped vegetables and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Bake
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Cool and Serve
Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or refrigerate for later use.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients, such as adding cooked sausage or substituting different cheeses. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storing and Reheating
Storing your Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake is simple and can extend its shelf life. Once cooled, cut the dish into squares and store them in an airtight container for up to five days in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing the individual portions. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply reheat it from frozen in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, typically around 20-25 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to grab a nutritious breakfast on busy mornings.
Serving Suggestions
This egg bake is delicious as is, but serving it with a side of salsa or avocado can add an extra layer of flavor. A dollop of Greek yogurt also complements the dish well, providing creaminess and a tangy kick. For a more brunch-style serving, consider pairing it with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with light vinaigrette; the freshness will contrast nicely with the rich eggs.
Additionally, consider turning leftovers into a hearty lunch by layering the egg squares in a wrap with fresh spinach and sliced tomatoes. This not only repurposes the egg bake but also creates a filling meal that's easy to take on the go.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the breakfast egg bake?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ How long does it take to reheat?
To reheat, simply place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
→ Can I use egg substitutes?
Absolutely! You can use egg substitutes or egg whites for a lighter version of this dish.
→ What are some good vegetable options for this bake?
Other great vegetable options include zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook evenly.
Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake
I love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Make Ahead Breakfast Egg Bake has become a go-to for busy mornings. I can prepare it in advance and just pop it into the oven when I’m ready to eat. With a mix of eggs, veggies, and cheese, it’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein. The best part is that you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This dish has transformed my mornings and made breakfast both easy and delicious!
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 cups chopped vegetables (bell peppers, spinach, onions, etc.)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
Stir in the chopped vegetables and shredded cheese until evenly distributed.
Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or refrigerate for later use.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients, such as adding cooked sausage or substituting different cheeses. This recipe is also great for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g