Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family brunch or a holiday gathering. This savory breakfast casserole combines layers of bread, chicken sausage, and cheese, all soaked in a rich and creamy egg custard. Its make-ahead nature ensures that you can enjoy a delicious meal without the morning scramble. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before to save time in the morning.
• Delicious Layers: Enjoy a delightful combination of bread, cheese, and savory chicken sausage.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a personal touch.
• Feeding a Crowd: Perfect for serving 10 guests, making it ideal for brunches or celebrations.
• Easy Cleanup: One baking dish means less mess and hassle when you’re done.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools and ensure you have everything ready for seamless preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth egg mixture that’s essential for soaking the bread evenly.

Ingredients

A savory, make-ahead breakfast casserole with layers of bread, chicken sausage, and cheese, soaked in a rich and creamy egg custard.

For the Base

• 1 loaf day-old Italian or French bread, cubed

For the Custard Mixture

• 10 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream

For Cheese Topping

• 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan

For Flavoring

• 1 lb chicken breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper
• Parsley for garnish

How to Make Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Bread

Start by layering the cubed bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Ensure even distribution across the bottom so every bite is flavorful.

Step 2: Add the Sausage and Vegetables

Top the bread with cooked chicken sausage. You can also add sautéed onions or any other vegetables you prefer. This adds extra flavor to your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered bread and sausage in the baking dish. Make sure all pieces are soaked nicely.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Sprinkle both shredded Cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan on top of the casserole. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to let flavors meld.

Step 6: Bake

Let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center.

Step 7: Serve

Allow resting for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into portions. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole!

How to Serve Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Serving the Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole is simple and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any breakfast or brunch gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Classic Serving

• Serve warm from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Accompanying Fruits

• Pair with seasonal fresh fruits like berries or sliced melons for a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.

Breakfast Sandwiches

• Use slices of the casserole as filling for breakfast sandwiches. Add avocado or tomato slices for extra flavor.

Side Salads

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Specialty Sauces

• Serve with a side of homemade salsa or spicy ketchup to add a kick to each bite.

Hot Beverages

• Offer coffee, tea, or fresh juices to complete the breakfast experience.

How to Perfect Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Perfecting your Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole can elevate your cooking game. Here are some useful tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use stale bread: Day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture better, providing a more flavorful casserole.

• Mix in veggies: Adding sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value and taste.

• Adjust cheese types: Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit overnight helps meld the flavors and results in a creamier texture.

• Check doneness: Ensure that the center is fully set before removing it from the oven for best results.

• Cool before slicing: Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking makes slicing easier and keeps everything intact.

Best Side Dishes for Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and sweetness to your plate.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy and crunchy contrast.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a hearty addition to your breakfast spread.

4. Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing crunch alongside the rich casserole.

5. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread offers healthy fats that complement the casserole well.

6. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts and seeds is nutritious and visually appealing alongside your main dish.

7. Seasonal Vegetable Sauté: Lightly sautéed vegetables add color, nutrition, and flavor balance to your meal.

8. Savory Muffins: Serve some herbed muffins as a delightful side that pairs perfectly with eggs and cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the soaking time: Failing to let the casserole sit overnight means the bread won’t absorb the custard fully, resulting in a soggy texture. Always refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
• Not using day-old bread: Fresh bread can become too mushy when soaked. Use day-old or slightly dried-out bread for the best results.
• Overcrowding with ingredients: Adding too many toppings like vegetables or meats can overwhelm the flavor and texture. Stick to recommended amounts for balance.
• Ignoring the resting time before baking: Letting it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes helps with even cooking. Don’t skip this step!
• Baking without covering: If you bake uncovered from the start, the top may burn before the center sets. Cover with foil for half of the cooking time.
• Not checking doneness properly: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Always check that the center is set and that the top is golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It will last in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat in short intervals of 1 minute until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe?

The Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is a savory breakfast dish made with layers of bread, cheese, and sausage, soaked in a creamy egg custard.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute sausage with sautéed vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to prepare this casserole?

Prep time is about 20 minutes, but you’ll need to let it refrigerate overnight for best results.

Can I add other ingredients to my casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with spinach, mushrooms, or peppers according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

Your casserole is ready when the center is set and the top has turned golden brown. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

You can use gluten-free bread as a substitute for regular bread to make this casserole gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

The Ina Garten Overnight Breakfast Casserole Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your favorite ingredients or dietary needs, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family brunch or holiday gathering, give this delightful dish a try!