Name: Bacon Potato Egg Casserole: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 90 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces; 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 12 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional); Cooking spray

Bacon potato egg casserole: just the name conjures up images of cozy weekend brunches and comforting family gatherings, doesn't it? Forget complicated recipes and fussy preparations; this is the kind of dish that brings everyone together with minimal effort and maximum flavor. I'm thrilled to share my version of this classic, a recipe that's been a staple in my family for generations.

While the exact origins of the bacon potato egg casserole are a bit hazy, its roots likely lie in the resourceful kitchens of home cooks looking for hearty and satisfying ways to use up leftovers. Casseroles, in general, have a long history as budget-friendly and convenient meals, and this particular combination of ingredients speaks to a love of simple, wholesome flavors. Think of it as a deconstructed breakfast, baked to golden perfection!

What's not to love? The creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and fluffy eggs create a symphony of textures and tastes that's simply irresistible. It's the perfect balance of salty, savory, and comforting, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or spices to create a dish that's uniquely your own. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a brunch with friends, this bacon potato egg casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

1 pound bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
12 large eggs
1 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh chives, for garnish (optional)
Cooking spray

Preparing the Bacon and Vegetables:

First things first, let's get that bacon crispy! In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it's nice and crisp. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to stir it occasionally so it cooks evenly and doesn't burn.
Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. We want to keep that delicious bacon grease in the skillet, though! It's going to add so much flavor to our veggies.
Now, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook them over medium heat until they're softened, about 8-10 minutes. Stir them frequently to prevent burning and ensure they cook evenly. You want them to be tender and slightly caramelized for the best flavor.
While the vegetables are cooking, let's get those potatoes ready. Peel the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1/2-inch cubes. You want them to be uniform in size so they cook evenly in the casserole.
Once the vegetables are softened, add the cubed potatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the potatoes with the bacon grease and vegetable mixture. This will help them cook evenly and absorb all that delicious flavor.
Continue to cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned. This will take about 15-20 minutes. You'll know they're ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork. If the skillet seems dry, you can add a tablespoon or two of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly. We don't want to add the egg mixture to a scorching hot skillet, or it will start to cook before we're ready.

Preparing the Egg Mixture:

While the potatoes and vegetables are cooling, let's prepare the egg mixture. In a large bowl, crack the 12 eggs.
Add the milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the bowl with the eggs.
Whisk everything together until it's well combined and slightly frothy. You want to make sure the eggs are fully incorporated with the milk and cream for a smooth and creamy casserole.
Now, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) to the egg mixture. This will add a cheesy richness to the casserole.
Stir the cheese into the egg mixture until it's evenly distributed.

Assembling and Baking the Casserole:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly without burning the top.
Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish and make it easier to serve.
Pour the potato and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the potato and vegetable mixture. Make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite has a little bit of bacon goodness.
Pour the egg mixture over the potato, vegetable, and bacon mixture. Make sure the egg mixture covers everything evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup) over the top of the casserole. This will create a beautiful golden-brown crust as it bakes.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You'll know it's ready when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set up a bit and make it easier to slice.
Garnish with chopped fresh chives, if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Slice the casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to make this bacon potato egg casserole even more amazing:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or pepper jack would all be delicious additions.
Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or diced ham for extra flavor and nutrients.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a little kick.
Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Use Different Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes or red potatoes can be used instead of russet potatoes.
Bacon Alternatives: If you're not a fan of bacon, you can use sausage or ham instead.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or soy milk instead of milk and heavy cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the egg mixture for a more complex flavor.
Slow Cooker Version: You can also make this casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Individual Casseroles: For a fun twist, bake the casserole in individual ramekins. This is great for portion control and presentation.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover bacon potato egg casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting bacon potato egg casserole!

Conclusion:

This bacon potato egg casserole isn't just another breakfast dish; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen, a comforting hug on a plate, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. From the crispy, salty bacon to the tender, perfectly cooked potatoes and the creamy, cheesy egg mixture, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it's incredibly versatile, surprisingly easy to make, and utterly delicious. It's the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite, requested time and time again. But the best part? You can easily customize this casserole to suit your own preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or incorporate some chopped bell peppers and onions for extra flavor and nutrients. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead. You could even try using sweet potatoes in place of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutritious twist. Serving suggestions are endless! This casserole is fantastic on its own for a hearty breakfast or brunch. But it also pairs perfectly with a side of fresh fruit, a simple green salad, or even some crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices. For a more elegant presentation, try serving individual portions in ramekins. And don't forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a drizzle of hot sauce can elevate this casserole to the next level. I've made this bacon potato egg casserole countless times, and it's always a hit. It's perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or even a simple weeknight dinner. It's also a great way to use up leftover potatoes or bacon. And because it can be made ahead of time, it's a lifesaver when you're short on time. Simply assemble the casserole the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it in the morning. I'm so confident that you'll love this recipe that I urge you to give it a try. Don't be intimidated by the list of ingredients; it's all very straightforward. And trust me, the end result is well worth the effort. Once you've tasted this bacon potato egg casserole, you'll understand why I'm so passionate about it. It's a truly special dish that deserves a place in your recipe repertoire. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience with me! I'd love to hear how it turned out, what variations you tried, and what your family and friends thought. Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on social media, or send me an email. I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your home, bringing joy and deliciousness to your table for years to come. Enjoy!