This brunch bake is a cozy, delicious mix of eggs, bread, and your favorite toppings. You can add veggies, cheese, or meats to make it your own!
It’s like a warm hug on a plate — perfect for lazy weekends. I love making this easy dish for friends; it always brings smiles and happy tummies! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These are the star of the dish! They bind everything together and give the bake its fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg substitutes or even just egg whites.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but feel free to use low-fat milk or plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. Almond or oat milk works great too!
Bread: Any bread will do, but I love using thick, crusty bread like sourdough or whole wheat. If you’re gluten-free, there are plenty of good gluten-free bread options available.
Ham: Diced ham adds a nice flavor. You can swap it for cooked bacon, sausage, or even chopped veggies for a vegetarian option. I often use leftover meats from dinner — it’s a great way to use them up!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp and creamy flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer! Try mozzarella, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack if you want some heat.
How Do I Ensure My Brunch Bake Is Fluffy?
To achieve that light and fluffy texture, there are a few simple steps to follow when mixing your ingredients. Here’s what I do:
- Whisk the eggs and milk well to incorporate air; this helps the bake rise.
- Let the mixture sit for at least 10-15 minutes before baking. This allows the bread to soak up the liquid, enhancing the texture.
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the dish inside; this ensures even cooking.
Keep an eye on the bake while it cooks, checking for that golden color, and you’ll end up with a deliciously fluffy brunch bake! Enjoy your meal! 🥰
Brunch Bake
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Butter or oil for greasing the baking dish
Time Estimate:
This brunch bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in about 1 hour! Perfect for a weekend brunch with family or friends.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the milk, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and fluffy!
3. Add the Ingredients:
Now, gently stir in the cubed bread, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onion. Mix everything together until the bread is well coated with the egg mixture.
4. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
5. Bake:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. It’s cooked when the top is golden brown and the center is set. You can check by inserting a knife; it should come out clean!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take the brunch bake out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it firm up a bit. Then, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch!
7. Serve:
Cut into squares and serve with a side of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and fresh rolls for a lovely brunch plate. Enjoy your warm and satisfying brunch bake!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while gluten-free bread works perfectly for those with dietary restrictions. Just make sure the gluten-free bread is sturdy enough to hold up in the bake.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months! Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Can I Make This Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this brunch bake a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Other Add-Ins Can I Use?
The beauty of a brunch bake is its versatility! You can add various ingredients like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or different types of cheese. Feel free to get creative and use what you love!