The smell of a baked egg casserole made with crackers in the kitchen is magical. As a kid, I loved waking up to my grandma’s egg bake. It was her way of bringing us together. Now, I’m sharing a recipe baked egg casserole made with crackers that brings back those memories—a tasty dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch.
This egg breakfast casserole is more than a meal; it’s a warm hug. The cracker crust adds a nice crunch to creamy eggs and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for brunch or a quick breakfast. You might also like this Ghirardelli brownie mix for dessert!
Ready to make your breakfast better? This recipe baked egg casserole made with crackers is simple yet impressive. It’s time to make new memories and traditions with a dish that’s both heartwarming and delicious.
Table of Contents
Introduction Recipe Baked Egg Casserole Made with Crackers
Discover the ultimate breakfast comfort food with a savory egg and cracker casserole. This hearty dish combines eggs, cheese, and crackers for a unique twist on traditional breakfast fare. Perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead, an overnight egg and cracker strata is both convenient and delicious.
What is a Baked Egg Casserole?
A baked egg casserole is a versatile dish that brings together eggs, dairy, and fillings in a tasty, oven-baked format. It’s a go-to option for brunch gatherings or busy mornings. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a meal that serves 8 and packs a nutritional punch.
Why Use Crackers in Your Casserole?
Crackers add a unique texture and flavor to your casserole. They’re a great alternative to bread, making the dish potentially gluten-free. The savory egg and cracker casserole offers a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy egg mixture.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 509 kcal |
| Protein | 27g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 36g |
| Calcium | 380mg |
This nutrient-rich overnight egg and cracker strata not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced start to your day. With its adaptability and make-ahead convenience, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for the Egg Casserole
Making a tasty eggy cracker breakfast bake begins with the right ingredients. This dish is great because you can make it your own. Let’s look at the must-haves and extra goodies that make your crunchy cracker egg puff a hit. Want to dig deeper into baked egg casserole recipes? This resourceful book on Google Books offers detailed methods and tips to make your dish unforgettable.
Essential Ingredients
The base of your egg casserole includes these key items:
- 8 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cubed day-old bread or crackers
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
Take your crunchy cracker egg puff to the next level with these extra flavors:
| Protein | Vegetables | Dairy | Seasonings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 pound bacon | 1 cup diced onion | 16 oz cottage cheese | 1 tsp dried thyme |
| 1 lb breakfast sausage | 1 red bell pepper | 2 cups mozzarella | 1/2 tsp garlic powder |
| Diced ham | Spinach | 1/2 cup melted butter | 1 tsp baking powder |
Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to make your ideal eggy cracker breakfast bake. This recipe makes 6 servings and can be tailored to fit your dietary needs or preferences.
Preparing the Crackers
The secret to a great cracker-crusted egg bake is in the crackers. Your choice can make or break the dish. So, let’s explore the best options.
Choosing the Right Crackers
For a tasty cracker-crusted egg bake, pick sturdy crackers. They should hold up to the egg mixture. Round butter crackers are perfect, with their rich, buttery taste that pairs well with eggs. You’ll need about 3 sleeves for a standard casserole.
How to Prepare Crackers for the Casserole
You have two ways to prepare your crackers. You can crush them for a textured base or use them whole for a crisp crust. To crush, put the crackers in a zip-top bag and roll them with a rolling pin. For whole crackers, just arrange them at the bottom of your baking dish.
The crackers are the base of your savory egg and cracker casserole. They soak up the flavors and add a nice crunch. For the best texture, add the cracker layer just before baking.
- Use 3 sleeves of round butter crackers
- Crush slightly or use whole
- Layer at the bottom of the baking dish
- Add just before baking for optimal crunch
Now that your crackers are ready, you can move on to the next step in making your delicious cracker-crusted egg bake.
Mixing the Egg Casserole Base
Making a tasty egg breakfast casserole begins with mixing the base. This step is key for a great eggy cracker breakfast bake. Let’s explore how to mix ingredients and season your blend.
Combining Eggs and Dairy
Begin by cracking 6 large eggs into a bowl. Add 1/2 cup of cottage cheese for creaminess and protein. Whisk until everything is well mixed. The cottage cheese will melt, adding richness without a strong taste.
Then, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This will make your egg breakfast casserole cheesy and delicious. Stir gently to spread the cheese evenly.
Seasoning Your Mixture
It’s time to add flavor to your eggy cracker breakfast bake. Mince 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the bowl. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. You can also add Italian herbs or your favorite seasoning for more flavor.
Whisk all ingredients together until they’re well blended. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the texture rubbery. Your egg casserole base is now ready for the next step in making a delicious breakfast dish. It serves 6 and has about 233 calories per serving.
Layering the Casserole
Building a perfect overnight egg and cracker strata is all about layering. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a crunchy cracker egg puff full of flavor.
The Base Layer: Crackers
Begin by spreading a layer of crackers evenly at the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish. This layer provides a crispy base for your casserole. Use about 2 cups of crushed crackers for the best base.
Adding Fillings: Vegetables and Meats
Then, add your favorite fillings. Sauté 1/2 large onion and 1 green bell pepper with 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sprinkle this mixture over the crackers. For meat lovers, add 8 ounces of cooked bacon and 1 pound of browned breakfast sausage. Vegetarians can substitute with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
Pouring the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together 12 large eggs and 1/3 cup of milk. Pour this mixture evenly over your layers of crackers and fillings. Let your casserole sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the crackers to soak up the egg mixture, creating a delightful texture in your crunchy cracker egg puff.
- Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for extra flavor
- Garnish with sliced green onions or herbs before baking
- Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and set
This recipe serves 8-10, with each serving containing 206 calories, 18.5g of fat, and 7.8g of protein. Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying overnight egg and cracker strata!
Baking the Casserole
Now that you’ve mixed your savory egg and cracker casserole, it’s time to bake it. This step is key to getting the right texture and taste in your recipe.
Oven Temperature and Time
Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps cook the casserole evenly. Put your dish in the center rack and bake for 45 minutes. This lets the eggs set and the crackers soak up the flavors.
Checking for Doneness
Your casserole is ready when the top is golden and the center is firm. Check by inserting a knife into the middle – it should come out clean. If it’s not ready, bake for 5-10 more minutes, checking often to avoid overcooking.
Let your casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This lets the flavors mix and makes it easier to serve. Each serving of this tasty baked egg casserole has about 382 calories, offering a fulfilling and healthy meal.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 382 |
| Fat | 22g (9g saturated) |
| Cholesterol | 175mg |
| Sodium | 1377mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21g (6g sugars, 2g fiber) |
| Protein | 25g |
Serving Suggestions
Your cracker-crusted egg bake is ready to impress! This egg breakfast casserole is great for many occasions. It can be served in different ways to please everyone.
Best Accompaniments for Your Casserole
Pair your egg breakfast casserole with fresh fruit for a balanced meal. A mixed green salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich casserole. For a heartier brunch, serve with crispy bacon or sausage links.
Don’t forget to offer toppings like salsa, sour cream, or sliced avocado for extra flavor.
Presentation Tips
Cut your cracker-crusted egg bake into squares for easy serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley to add color and flavor. Use a warm serving platter to keep the casserole hot throughout the meal.
For a festive touch, arrange colorful vegetable slices around the edge of the dish.
- Serve hot, straight from the oven
- Offer a variety of toppings
- Use colorful side dishes for visual appeal
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving
Remember, presentation can make your egg breakfast casserole a show-stopper. With these serving suggestions, your cracker-crusted egg bake will be the star of any meal!
Storage and Reheating Tips
Your overnight egg and cracker strata can be a gift that keeps on giving. With proper storage, you can enjoy this eggy cracker breakfast bake for days after the initial serving. Let’s explore how to keep your casserole fresh and delicious.
How to Store Leftovers
After savoring your casserole, you’ll want to preserve any leftovers properly. Place the cooled strata in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days, perfect for quick breakfasts throughout the week. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Best Ways to Reheat Your Casserole
When you’re ready to enjoy your eggy cracker breakfast bake again, you have options. For single servings, the microwave works well. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For larger portions, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake until heated, about 15-20 minutes.
| Reheating Method | Time | Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave (single serving) | 1-2 minutes | High |
| Oven (multiple servings) | 15-20 minutes | 350°F |
Remember, this casserole packs 325 calories per serving with 13g of protein, making it a satisfying meal any time of day. Its convenient reheating options make it ideal for busy mornings or meal prep, joining the ranks of popular make-ahead breakfast options like egg bites.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional value of your savory egg and cracker casserole is key. It helps you make better food choices. Let’s explore the main parts of this tasty dish.
Caloric Breakdown of Ingredients
A single serving of this crunchy cracker egg puff is very nutritious. Here’s a detailed look at its nutritional profile:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 21g |
| Carbohydrates | 11g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The savory egg and cracker casserole is more than just tasty. Eggs are a great source of protein and vitamins D and B12. Cheese adds calcium for strong bones. Whole grain crackers boost fiber, aiding digestion.
This crunchy cracker egg puff is packed with nutrients. It’s full of vitamins A, C, E, and K, plus minerals like potassium. The veggies add antioxidants, like lycopene from tomatoes.
Remember, this casserole can be part of a healthy diet. It’s rich in protein, which can help reduce hunger and boost energy. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious savory egg and cracker casserole!
Variations on the Recipe
The recipe for a baked egg casserole with crackers is very flexible. You can change it to fit different diets and tastes. Let’s look at some tasty variations to keep your meals exciting.
Vegetarian Version
Make your egg casserole a veggie feast. Remove the meat and add lots of colorful veggies. Try sautéed spinach, roasted bell peppers, and caramelized onions. For more protein, add cubed tofu or plant-based meat.
The crackers still give a nice crunch. This makes the dish perfect for a mix of textures.
Low-Carb Adjustments
If you’re watching carbs, try using crushed pork rinds instead of crackers. They have a similar texture but fewer carbs. You can also use almond flour for a nutty base.
Use high-protein foods like cheese, eggs, and lean meats to stay full. Try different cheeses for more flavor. Sharp cheddar or smoky gouda can make your casserole taste better. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary can also boost the taste.
The great thing about this egg breakfast casserole is how easy it is to change. Feel free to try different ingredients to make it just right for you.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Spinach, bell peppers, tofu | 35-40 minutes |
| Low-Carb | Pork rinds, almond flour, cheese | 30-35 minutes |
Final Thoughts
As you finish making this savory egg and cracker casserole, you’ll see why it’s loved by many. It’s a mix of textures and tastes that excites your senses.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is great for big groups, serving 8 people well. It’s also filling, with 669 calories per serving. Plus, it has 32g of protein to give you energy.
The dish is not only tasty but also good for you. It has 173mg of calcium and 8mg of vitamin C per serving.
Encouragement to Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to make this dish your own. Try using turkey sausage instead of pork to cut down on fat. Or add more veggies for extra fiber.
Experiment with different crackers to change the texture and taste. Cooking is like art, and this recipe is your canvas. So, get creative in the kitchen!
FAQ: Common Questions About Egg Casseroles
1. Why is my breakfast casserole soggy?
A soggy breakfast casserole is often the result of excess liquid in the dish. This can happen if the bread or crackers in the recipe weren’t dry enough to absorb the moisture from the eggs and milk. Another common cause is using too many watery ingredients, like fresh vegetables that haven’t been pre-cooked. To avoid sogginess, lightly toast the bread or crackers and sauté vegetables to remove excess water before adding them to the casserole.
2. What’s the difference between a frittata and an egg casserole?
The main difference lies in the preparation and texture. A frittata is cooked entirely on the stovetop or started on the stovetop and finished in the oven, resulting in a firm, sliceable texture. It’s typically made without a crust and is similar to an omelet. On the other hand, an egg casserole is baked entirely in the oven, often includes a base of bread or crackers, and has a softer, more custard-like consistency. Casseroles are also more likely to include a wider variety of ingredients like cheese, meat, and vegetables.
3. What is another name for egg casserole?
Egg casseroles are often referred to by other names, depending on the region or specific recipe variations. Common alternative names include egg bake, breakfast casserole, or strata (if bread is a key ingredient). In some cases, they might simply be called baked omelets or egg dishes in informal settings.
4. Can you freeze egg bake before baking?
Yes, you can freeze an egg bake before baking, making it a convenient option for meal prep. To do this, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in the freezer. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If you want to bake it straight from frozen, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure the casserole is thoroughly heated.