If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s not just tasty but also a total crowd-pleaser, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Egg-In-Hole Layered Breakfast Bake! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining crispy bread, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked eggs. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for lazy weekends or special brunches. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious breakfast bake that everyone will love!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this scrumptious breakfast bake:
- Bread: 8 slices of your favorite bread (white, whole wheat, or even challah works great!)
- Eggs: 6 large eggs
- Cheese: 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- Milk: 1 cup of milk (whole or any plant-based milk you prefer)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional Add-ins: Chopped veggies (like bell peppers or spinach), cooked halal sausage or bacon, or herbs (like parsley or chives) for extra flavor.
Tools
You’ll also need a few kitchen tools to make this bake:
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk
- A baking dish (9×13 inches works well)
- A spatula
- A knife for cutting the bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your breakfast bake will be nice and hot when it’s ready to serve.
2. Prepare the Bread
Grab your bread and cut out a hole in the center of each slice. You can use a cookie cutter or just a glass to make it easy. Don’t toss those bread circles! You can toast them up later for a crunchy snack.
3. Butter the Baking Dish
Take your baking dish and spread a little butter on the bottom. This will help prevent sticking and add a nice flavor to the bake.
4. Layer the Bread
Now, place the slices of bread in the baking dish, making sure they’re snug against each other. You can even overlap them a bit for a cozy fit.
5. Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the bread. If you’re adding any veggies or cooked halal meat, now’s the time to toss them in. Just make sure they’re evenly distributed.
6. Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. This mixture is what will soak into the bread and create that delicious custardy texture.
7. Pour the Egg Mixture
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese. Make sure to cover everything evenly. You want every slice to soak up that goodness!
8. Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top. Who doesn’t love extra cheese, right?
9. Bake It Up
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let It Cool
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Egg-In-Hole Layered Breakfast Bake is ready, it’s time to dig in! Here are some fun ways to serve it:
- Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sides: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- Sauces: Drizzle with hot sauce or serve with salsa for a spicy kick.
Tips for Success
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish the night before. Just cover it and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Customize It: Feel free to switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This recipe is super flexible!
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.
