There’s just something magical about breakfast casseroles, isn’t there? They’re like a warm hug on a plate, packed with flavor and ready to feed a crowd! My absolute favorite is this Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole. It combines all the comforting elements of pizza with the heartiness of breakfast, making it a perfect start to any day. I remember the first time I made it for a family brunch—everyone gathered around the table, the aroma wafting through the house, and then the smiles when they took that first bite. It’s a dish that brings people together, and trust me, whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a busy weekday, this casserole will become a staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of pepperoni, sliced
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out deliciously golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 large eggs and 1 cup of milk. Add in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. You want to mix it until it’s smooth and well combined—this is where all that flavor comes from, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Start by layering the cubed bread in a greased baking dish. Make sure to cover the bottom evenly. Next, spread the sliced pepperoni over the bread cubes—don’t be shy here! Then, pour the creamy egg mixture over everything, ensuring it seeps down to the bottom. Finally, sprinkle the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This will create that melty, cheesy goodness we all love!
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Pop that beauty into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Give it a gentle shake; if it jiggles just a bit, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time is key, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Cut it into squares and serve warm. You’re going to love the smiles on everyone’s faces when they dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans!
- Great for feeding a crowd; this casserole makes 6 hearty servings!
- Delicious flavor combinations that mimic your favorite pizza—who wouldn’t love that?
- Comforting and satisfying, it’s like having pizza for breakfast without the guilt!
- Customizable—add veggies, swap cheeses, or try different meats to make it your own!
- Easy cleanup since everything bakes in one dish—less fuss, more fun!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few handy tips for you!
- Use Stale Bread: If you’ve got some day-old bread lying around, this is the perfect time to use it! Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture without getting too soggy, giving you that perfect texture.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: The Italian seasoning really elevates the flavor, but feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of garlic powder or some crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.
- Mix Up the Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, you can totally experiment! Try using cheddar, provolone, or even a bit of parmesan for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to keep the total amount around 2 cups.
- Add Veggies: If you’re looking to sneak in some veggies, chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach work beautifully! Just sauté them lightly before layering to ensure they’re cooked through.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before! Just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
- Keep an Eye on Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. The casserole should be set in the center and golden on top.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a breakfast casserole that not only looks amazing but tastes even better! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for my Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes.
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This hearty breakfast casserole packs a punch with protein and flavor, making it a satisfying start to your day. Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for pepperoni?
If pepperoni isn’t your thing, no worries! You can use other meats like diced ham, cooked sausage, or even cooked bacon. For a vegetarian option, try adding mushrooms or your favorite veggies instead!
Can I use different kinds of bread?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. A hearty sourdough or even whole wheat works great. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat individual portions in the microwave or pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to warm through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for about 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is filling on its own, but you can serve it alongside fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even some crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast spread!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is super easy, and I’ve got a few tips to keep it tasting just as delicious the next day! First, let the casserole cool completely before you store it. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
If you want to enjoy it later, you can also freeze the casserole. Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It’ll be good in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
For reheating, I recommend popping it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through. This method helps maintain that lovely texture and flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave a slice for about a minute or two, but I find the oven gives you that just-baked freshness. Enjoy every bite, even if it’s a leftover!
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole: 5 Smiles in Every Bite
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: High Protein
Description
A delicious breakfast casserole featuring layers of pepperoni, cheese, and eggs.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of pepperoni, sliced
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the bread cubes in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the sliced pepperoni over the bread cubes.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole