This Healthy Overnight Breakfast Casserole is super simple and uses just five ingredients! Packed with eggs, veggies, and a touch of cheese, it’s the perfect way to start your day.
I love making this the night before and waking up to a warm breakfast ready to go. Plus, it means less morning chaos—who doesn’t want that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the main protein source for this casserole, adding richness and structure. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you could try using a combination of flaxseed meal and water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water serves as a substitute for one egg).
Almond Milk: Almond milk gives a light flavor. You can substitute it with any other milk, such as soy, oat, or regular cow’s milk. I find oat milk adds a nice creaminess to the dish!
Bread: Whole grain bread keeps it healthy. You can swap it with gluten-free bread to suit dietary needs. Stale bread works best as it soaks up the egg mixture better.
Mixed Berries: Berries add flavor and vitamins. Feel free to use whatever berries you have; frozen or fresh works great. If you want a sweeter option, consider using chopped apples or bananas.
Maple Syrup: This acts as a natural sweetener. If you’re out of maple syrup, honey works too. You could also use agave syrup for a vegan substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Well When Baking?
Getting your casserole to set perfectly is crucial, and there are a few key steps to help with that. The egg and bread mixture needs enough time to absorb liquid, so don’t rush the chilling process!
- After mixing the ingredients, let the bread soak well in the egg mixture—about 10-15 minutes helps.
- When baking, check around 30 minutes. If it’s puffed and golden but a bit jiggly, it’s done. It will firm up as it cools.
Letting it cool a bit before serving is key! Enjoy your healthy breakfast! It’s perfect for busy mornings, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings too!
How to Make a Healthy Overnight Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 4 cups bread (preferably whole grain or gluten-free), cubed
- 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen, e.g., raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or honey)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast casserole requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then should chill in the refrigerator overnight, or at least for 4 hours. You’ll spend a little time mixing and assembling, and then let it do its magic in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisking the Eggs:
In a large bowl, take your 6 eggs and pour in the 2 cups of almond milk. Using a whisk, mix them together really well until they are combined and smooth. This mixture will be the base of your casserole.
2. Adding the Bread:
Next, grab your cubed bread (4 cups) and add it to the egg mixture. Gently stir it all together until the bread is completely coated and has soaked up some of the egg and milk mixture. This step is key to making sure your casserole is nice and fluffy!
3. Incorporating the Berries:
Now, it’s time to add in the 2 cups of mixed berries. Carefully fold them into the mixture, being gentle so you don’t squish them. Save a few berries to sprinkle on top later!
4. Preparing to Refrigerate:
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly. Top the casserole with the reserved berries and drizzle the 2 tablespoons of maple syrup over everything for a touch of sweetness.
5. Chilling Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the fridge and let it chill overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all those yummy flavors!
6. Baking Time:
When you’re ready to bake, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s hot, remove the cover from your casserole and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set in the middle and lightly golden on top.
7. Serving:
Let your casserole cool slightly after baking. Then, serve it warm and enjoy a delicious, healthy breakfast that everyone will love!
Can I Substitute the Eggs with a Vegan Option?
Yes, you can use flax eggs as a replacement! To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. For this recipe, you would need 6 flax eggs, so multiply accordingly!
What Other Berries Can I Use?
Feel free to mix and match your favorite berries! Blueberries, strawberries, and chopped apples work beautifully in this casserole. Just make sure to adjust the quantity if you’re using larger fruits to maintain the texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread to make the casserole entirely gluten-free. Check the bread ingredients to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources if you have sensitivities!
