As You Like It Breakfast Casserole

My Go-To Weekend Breakfast: As You Like It Casserole

Weekends are precious. They're a time for sleeping in, leisurely brunches, and catching up on those little things we often neglect during the busy work week. And for me, a perfect weekend starts with a delicious and easy breakfast that doesn't require hours of slaving over a hot stove. That's where my As You Like It Breakfast Casserole comes in. This recipe is my go-to for those lazy weekend mornings when I want something comforting, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious.

The beauty of this casserole is its adaptability. "As You Like It" truly lives up to its name. Feel free to customize it to your heart's content. One weekend, I might be craving the salty, savory goodness of ham and cheddar. The next, I might opt for a spicier kick with Italian sausage and pepper jack. The possibilities are endless! I often use whatever vegetables I have on hand – sometimes it's broccoli and mushrooms, other times it's spinach and bell peppers. Leftover cooked bacon or sausage makes a fantastic addition, adding a burst of smoky flavor to the mix.

This casserole is also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread. Stale bread works perfectly, soaking up the creamy egg mixture and contributing to the casserole's delightful texture. I typically cube up some day-old bread the night before, so it’s ready to go in the morning. The prep time is minimal—literally just a few minutes of chopping veggies and mixing ingredients. Then it's off to the oven, where it bakes to golden perfection. The aroma alone is enough to wake up the entire house!

The result is a breakfast casserole that's warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful. The eggs are fluffy and set perfectly, the cheese is melty and gooey, and the bread is wonderfully soft and soaked through with the creamy mixture. It's a perfect centerpiece for a relaxed brunch with family or friends or a quiet, satisfying meal enjoyed solo on a cozy weekend morning.

I often serve this with a side of fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad for a well-rounded and healthy breakfast. But honestly, it's so satisfying on its own that I usually don't need anything else. It's easily reheated for leftovers, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weekdays too. I find it’s equally delicious at room temperature, making it also a great option for potlucks or picnics.

So, next time you're looking for a simple yet impressive breakfast, give my As You Like It Breakfast Casserole a try. You'll quickly find that it becomes a weekend staple in your kitchen. The ease of preparation, the customizable ingredients, and the undeniably delicious taste make it a true winner. Happy cooking!

Ingredients I frequently use:

• Eggs: The foundation of this casserole, providing structure and richness.
• Milk: Adds moisture and creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese: My personal favorite, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses.
• Bread: Day-old bread works best. French bread, sourdough, or even a simple white bread will all work well.
• Ham: Adds a savory flavor and protein.
• Vegetables: Broccoli, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and spinach are some of my favorites.
• Sausage: Italian sausage or breakfast sausage adds a delightful spicy kick.
• Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds smoky deliciousness.
• Spices: Salt and pepper are essential, but don't be afraid to experiment with other spices.

Remember, this is your recipe! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, adjust seasoning, and make it your own. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Spray a 13" x 9" casserole dish and preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
• Beat the eggs in a large bowl.
• Mix in the milk and cheese.
• Add the bread and carefully stir until all the pieces of bread are moistened (DO NOT OVERMIX OR THE BREAD WILL DISINTEGRATE).
• Add your additions.
• Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Pour into your sprayed pan.
• Bake at 350 degrees for 50 - 60 minutes, or until the top is browned and the center springs back when touched.
• Cool for 10 minutes before serving.