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When it comes to breakfast, few dishes can rival the comforting and satisfying nature of a cheesy bacon breakfast casserole. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines the rich flavors of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs, all nestled together in a warm, hearty casserole. The appeal of this recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, planning a weekend brunch, or simply looking for a satisfying meal to kickstart your day, this breakfast casserole ticks all the boxes.

Cheesy Bacon Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with a delicious Cheesy Bacon Breakfast Casserole! This hearty dish combines crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs all baked together for a comforting breakfast experience. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekend brunches, it’s easily customizable to suit any taste. Prepare it in advance for a stress-free morning and enjoy the warm aroma that will invite everyone to the table. A true crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
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Ingredients
  

8 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

6 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

4 cups day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 cup diced bell peppers (choose a mix of colors for visual appeal)

1/2 cup finely diced onion

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 7-10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease, leaving approximately 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.

      Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet containing the leftover bacon grease. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

        Whisk the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, crack in the eggs and pour in the whole milk. Add the garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk vigorously until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is frothy.

          Assemble the Casserole:

            - Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

              - Layer half of the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.

                - Sprinkle half of the sautéed bell pepper and onion mixture over the bread, followed by half of the cooked bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

                  - Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, vegetables, bacon, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.

                    Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the casserole, ensuring an even distribution to coat all the bread cubes. Gently push any bread that rises to the surface back down into the egg mixture.

                      Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are completely set and the top is golden and bubbling.

                        Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes to set. Cut into squares and garnish with finely chopped chives or parsley for an added pop of color and flavor, if desired.

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 10 mins | Serves 6-8

                            Presentation Tips: Serve warm directly from the baking dish or transfer individual portions to plates. You can add a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch! Enjoy your delicious and hearty breakfast casserole!