Savory Crouton & Bacon Egg Bake
This Savory Crouton & Bacon Egg Bake is a delightful dish inspired by a preschool cookbook, perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Combining crispy bacon, rich cheddar cheese, and crunchy croutons, this casserole delivers both texture and flavor in every bite. Easy to prepare and bake, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover croutons and transform a few simple ingredients into a hearty meal that will please everyone at the table.
8
Servings
225
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
bacon
4 (slices)
plain croutons
2 (cups)
cheddar cheese
4 (ounces, shredded)
eggs
4 (slightly beaten)
milk
2 (cups)
salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
onion powder
2 (teaspoons)
pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
3
In a 10 x 6 x 1 3/4 inch baking dish, layer the plain croutons evenly on the bottom.
4
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the croutons.
5
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, salt, onion powder, and a few grinds of black pepper until well combined.
6
Pour the egg mixture over the layers of croutons and cheese, ensuring everything is evenly soaked.
7
Scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the mixture.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
9
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
12g
Fat
10g
Carbs
14g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature should the oven be for the Savory Crouton & Bacon Egg Bake?
The oven should be preheated to 325°F (160°C) for baking this dish.
How long does it take to bake the egg casserole?
The casserole needs to bake for approximately 1 hour or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
Can I use seasoned croutons instead of plain ones?
Yes, you can use seasoned croutons, but be mindful of the extra salt and spices they may add to the overall flavor.
What size baking dish is recommended for this recipe?
A 10 x 6 x 1 3/4 inch baking dish is the ideal size for this Savory Crouton & Bacon Egg Bake.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide approximately 8 servings.
Can this egg bake be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers and pour the egg mixture over them, then refrigerate it overnight before baking the next morning.
Is it necessary to cook the bacon before adding it to the bake?
Yes, you should cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it before scattering it on top of the egg mixture.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese, which melts well and provides a rich flavor.
Can I use a different type of milk?
You can use any milk you prefer, though whole milk or 2% will provide a creamier consistency than skim milk.
How do I know when the eggs are fully set?
The eggs are set when the center no longer jiggles and the top has turned a beautiful golden brown.
Can I substitute bacon with another meat?
Absolutely; cooked sausage crumbles or diced ham would make excellent substitutes for bacon.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because of the croutons, but you can use gluten-free croutons as a substitute.
Can I add vegetables to this egg bake?
Yes, sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to the layers for extra nutrition and flavor.
What are the nutritional facts per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories, 12g of fat, 10g of carbohydrates, and 14g of protein.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I reheat the Savory Crouton & Bacon Egg Bake?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a 9x13 inch baking dish, though you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
What if I don't have onion powder?
You can substitute with very finely minced fresh onions or skip it, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I use fresh bread cubes instead of croutons?
Yes, but it is recommended to toast them in the oven first to achieve a texture similar to croutons.
Is this recipe suitable for a brunch party?
Yes, it is a perfect dish for brunch as it is easy to prepare and yields many servings.
Can I use half-and-half instead of milk?
Yes, using half-and-half will make the custard richer and more decadent.
How much salt is in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt, plus whatever is naturally present in the bacon and cheese.
Does the dish need to cool before serving?
Allowing it to cool for a few minutes helps the eggs set firmly, making it easier to slice.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Swiss would all be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
While not explicitly stated in the instructions, lightly greasing the dish can help prevent the eggs from sticking.
Can I add spices like garlic powder or paprika?
Yes, feel free to customize the seasoning by adding garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the familiar flavors of bacon, cheese, and bread make it a big hit with children.
What should I serve as a side with this egg bake?
Fresh fruit, a light green salad, or roasted potatoes pair wonderfully with this savory dish.
How many eggs are used in total?
This recipe requires 4 large eggs, slightly beaten.