Name: Cheesy Mushroom Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 2 cups whole milk; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cups day-old bread, cubed; 8 large eggs; Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika

This Cheesy Mushroom Breakfast Casserole is a savory, comforting dish perfect for brunch or meal prep. Loaded with earthy mushrooms, gooey cheese, and fluffy eggs, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Ideal for busy mornings or gatherings, this hearty casserole delivers rich flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Mushroom Breakfast Casserole is a game-changer for breakfast lovers. Its rich, savory flavors combine the umami of mushrooms with the gooeyness of melted cheese, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, it’s versatile and customizable. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or craving a hearty morning meal, this casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The golden, cheesy top and fluffy egg base make every bite irresistible, and it pairs beautifully with a side salad or fresh fruit.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate to save time in the morning.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Mushroom Mix: Use a variety of mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, oyster) for deeper flavor.
Don’t Overbake: Check for a slight jiggle in the center to keep the texture creamy.
Grease Well: Use butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking in the baking dish.

Yield: Serves 8

Cheesy Mushroom Breakfast Casserole

A savory, cheesy mushroom breakfast casserole with fluffy eggs and hearty bread, perfect for brunch or meal prep.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

1 lb cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups whole milk
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cups day-old bread, cubed
8 large eggs
Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prep. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy serving later.
Sauté the Veggies: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for 6-8 minutes until the mushrooms are golden and tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Bread Base: Spread the cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. The bread acts like a sponge, soaking up all the delicious egg mixture for a perfect texture.
Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional smoked paprika. This creamy mixture binds everything together with rich flavor.
Add the Cheese: Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Reserve the remaining cup for topping. The cheese adds that irresistible gooeyness we all love!
Combine Ingredients: Spread the sautéed mushroom mixture over the bread cubes. Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the top, ensuring every piece of bread gets soaked.
Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole for a golden, bubbly crust. Add a pinch of parsley for a fresh, colorful touch.
Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set but slightly jiggly for a creamy texture.
Rest and Cool: Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes slicing easier for perfect portions.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a crisp salad. Enjoy the smiles around the table!

Notes

For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Ensure mushrooms are cooked until their moisture evaporates to avoid a soggy casserole.
Use a mix of mushroom types for a more complex flavor profile.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per ServingCalories 438Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 256mgSodium 856mgCarbohydrates 18gFiber 1gSugar 6gProtein 25g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Eggs: Use large, fresh eggs for the best texture and structure in the casserole.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms work well, but shiitake or oyster add a gourmet touch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar provides bold flavor; freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess, but 2% or half-and-half can be used.
Bread: Day-old bread or sourdough cubes soak up the egg mixture perfectly.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics enhance the savory depth; sauté them until soft.
Butter: Used for sautéing and greasing the dish; unsalted lets you control saltiness.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness; substitute with chives if preferred.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all flavors.
Optional Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or thyme elevates the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Twist: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked bacon, sausage, or ham for a heartier dish.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gruyere, or a Mexican blend for variety.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or skip the bread for a low-carb version.
Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb Swap: Replace parsley with fresh dill or basil for a different flavor profile.

Storage Options

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: Freeze baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tip: Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.