Amish Breakfast Casserole Recipe

The Amish Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together classic breakfast flavors in one satisfying bite. This casserole is perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast when you want to feed a crowd without much fuss. With layers of bread, cheese, ham or bacon, and a rich egg mixture, this casserole delivers a filling and flavorful meal.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its make-ahead convenience. By preparing it the night before, you can wake up, pop it in the oven, and have a delicious, home-cooked breakfast with minimal effort. Whether you're hosting guests or just treating your family to something special, the Amish Breakfast Casserole is bound to become a go-to recipe.

A piece of Amish Breakfast Casserole served on a plate with a fork. Photo & Recipe from Amish-Heritage.org.  Link to the original recipe post here.

 

Why You’ll Love This Amish Breakfast Casserole

This casserole combines all your favorite breakfast staples—eggs, cheese, and savory meat—into one warm and comforting dish. The bread soaks up the egg mixture, creating a fluffy, custard-like texture, while the cheese melts into every layer for an extra creamy bite. The added mustard and onion powder lend a subtle tang and depth of flavor, making every forkful as satisfying as the last.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can swap in your favorite meats, cheeses, or seasonings to make it your own. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weekday morning or enjoying a relaxed Sunday brunch, this casserole is a delicious, low-maintenance option.

How to Make This Amish Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 3 cups bread cubes (about 4 slices)
• 3 cups diced ham or fried bacon (or 1 lb. cooked sausage)
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. dry mustard
• 6 large eggs
• 2 Tbsp. melted butter
• 2 ½ cups milk
• ¾ tsp. salt
• ¾ tsp. onion powder or dried onion flakes
• ½ tsp. black pepper

Instructions:

1. Start by greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the bread cubes, diced ham or bacon, and shredded cheese into the dish.
3. In a small bowl, combine the flour and dry mustard, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
4. In another bowl, beat the eggs and whisk in the melted butter, milk, salt, onion powder, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the top of the bread, ham, and cheese layers.
6. Cover the casserole and refrigerate it overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the liquid.
7. The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole uncovered for 55 minutes to an hour. It will puff up during baking but will settle once it's out of the oven.
8. Let the casserole rest for several minutes before serving.

Popular Substitutions & Additions

Meat Options: You can swap out the ham or bacon for cooked sausage, turkey bacon, or even vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version.

Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, you could try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little spice. Mixing different cheeses can also add an interesting flavor dimension.

Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.

Seasonings: Customize the seasoning with fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

Storing Leftover Breakfast Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap portions of the casserole in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the casserole the same day?

Yes! While refrigerating it overnight helps the flavors develop and the bread absorb the egg mixture, you can also let the casserole sit for about 30 minutes before baking if you're short on time.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely. While regular white bread works great, you could use sourdough, whole wheat, or even a heartier bread like brioche or French bread for a different texture.

How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?

To avoid a soggy casserole, make sure to use slightly stale bread, which will better absorb the egg mixture without becoming too mushy. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the casserole with too much meat or cheese, as these can release extra moisture during baking.

The Amish Breakfast Casserole is a versatile, make-ahead dish that makes breakfast a breeze. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or just a regular morning, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy!