Christmas morning calls for a delicious and easy breakfast that brings the family together. Imagine the aroma of sizzling bacon, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese baked to perfection over warm, flaky biscuits filling your home as everyone gathers around the table. This Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit Bake is the perfect solution for a festive and satisfying breakfast that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum flavor and comfort. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile—ideal for feeding a crowd with a single, hearty dish.
Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that will make your holiday mornings even more memorable!
Ingredients:
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 6 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
- Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it is crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Alternatively, bake the bacon on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and Crumble: Once the bacon is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Beat the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Biscuit Bake
- Prepare the Biscuits: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Cut each biscuit into quarters.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Biscuits: Place the biscuit pieces evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the Bacon and Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the biscuits, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese (if using). Make sure the bacon and cheese are evenly distributed.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the biscuits, bacon, and cheese. Gently shake the dish or use a spatula to ensure the egg mixture is evenly spread and covers all the ingredients.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the biscuits are golden brown.
- Check for Doneness: To check for doneness, insert a knife or toothpick in the center of the bake. If it comes out clean, the dish is ready.
- Cool Slightly and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve warm, straight from the oven. Pair with fresh fruit, a side salad, or holiday beverages like hot cocoa or mulled cider.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Helpful Notes:
- Make Ahead: This recipe can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake as directed. Perfect for busy holiday mornings!
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Biscuit Alternatives: If you don’t have refrigerated biscuit dough, you can substitute with homemade biscuit dough or use croissant dough for a lighter texture.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Martha Stewart: Suggests adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the egg mixture for an extra creamy texture.
- Jamie Oliver: Recommends using smoked bacon for a deeper, richer flavor and adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness.
- Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): Advises baking the casserole on a lower rack in the oven for the first 20 minutes to ensure the bottom of the biscuits is fully cooked.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative. Cook it as you would regular bacon until crispy and use it in the recipe. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the bacon and add more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach. You can also add vegetarian sausage crumbles for a meatless version. - Can I use frozen biscuits?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them according to package instructions before using. Frozen biscuits may require a longer baking time. - Can I add more cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese or mix different types like gouda, Monterey jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor. - What’s the best way to keep the eggs fluffy?
Whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate air, and avoid overbaking. Check frequently towards the end of the baking time. - How do I prevent the casserole from being soggy?
Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy and drain it well. Also, avoid over-soaking the biscuits in the egg mixture. - Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk can be used as a substitute for regular milk. - How can I make this dish spicy?
Add chopped jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a bit of heat. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, the baked casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. - What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs well with fresh fruit, a green salad, or holiday side dishes like hash browns or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion:
The Christmas Morning Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit Bake is an easy, flavorful, and filling breakfast that will become a cherished holiday tradition. With its crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and golden biscuits, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare and customize, making it the perfect dish to serve on a festive morning. Enjoy this comforting and delicious bake with your loved ones, and make your Christmas morning even more special!
