Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd With Minimal Cleanup

Name: Breakfast Ideas For A Crowd With Minimal Cleanup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach); 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon; 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or basil)

Highlighted under: Easy Family Meals

When hosting a brunch for friends or family, I love having a few go-to recipes that keep the cleanup minimal. Having dealt with the chaos of cooking for a crowd, I've learned the value of easy, delicious meals that require little more than a single baking dish. My favorite ideas include a breakfast casserole that combines various flavors and textures. Not only does this limit the number of dishes I have to wash, but it also ensures everyone leaves satisfied and happy.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-22T08:04:14.136Z

During one of my recent brunch gatherings, I decided to take a new approach to traditional breakfast. Instead of flipping pancakes or scrambling eggs, I prepped a big breakfast casserole that showcased everyone’s favorite ingredients. Not only did it fully utilize my oven space, but I also discovered that the combination of herbs and cheese fused beautifully while cooking.

I noticed that preparing components like veggies and meats beforehand made my morning smoother. I simply layered everything into a dish and let the oven do its magic. This approach not only kept the cleanup light but also yielded a fabulous, crowd-pleasing dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Minimal dishes make for easy cleanup
Delicious combination of flavors in one dish
Perfect for feeding a crowd without stress

The Importance of Eggs

Eggs are the star of this breakfast casserole, providing structure and protein that holds everything together. When whisked, they create a fluffy texture that helps to evenly distribute the flavors of the vegetables and meat. For optimal results, use farm-fresh eggs if possible; you'll notice a richer color and taste. Remember, the fresher the eggs, the better the final dish will be.

In this recipe, I recommend using large eggs, as they yield about 1/4 cup each. If you're making a larger batch or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, you can substitute eggs with a plant-based alternative. A common swap is a mixture of silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast, providing a similar binding effect while adding a creamy texture.

Layering for Success

How you layer the ingredients can significantly affect the final outcome of your casserole. Starting with the cooked meat at the bottom ensures that it doesn't dry out while baking. As it cooks, the flavors will infuse into the egg mixture above. I recommend opting for a good-quality sausage or bacon, as this will add depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish.

When distributing vegetables, ensure that they're evenly spread out and ideally pre-cooked or sautéed to help with moisture release. Zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are great additions that can be mixed in with your base choices. Be cautious not to overload with watery veggies; otherwise, the casserole might become soggy.

Ingredients

Breakfast Casserole Ingredients

12 large eggs
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups diced vegetables (bell peppers, onions, spinach)
1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried herbs (like oregano or basil)

Mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs.

Layer the Ingredients

Start by layering the cooked meat at the bottom of the baking dish. Next, distribute the vegetables evenly and pour the egg mixture over everything. Top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is golden on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares and serving. Enjoy your hassle-free brunch meal!

Customize with your favorite toppings or sides.

Pro Tips

Prep the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven the next morning for an easy brunch option!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to make the casserole in advance, storing it is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into squares and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

When reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain texture; place the squares on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. If you're short on time, the microwave can work in a pinch—just heat in 30-second intervals. Be mindful not to overheat in the microwave, as this can lead to rubbery eggs.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with various cheese types or vegetables according to your preferences. Try adding feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick or swapping out the standard cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy twist. You can also incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in the fall for diverse flavors.

For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and increase the quantity of vegetables. Consider adding ingredients like cooked quinoa or black beans for an added protein boost. This flexibility not only allows for dietary adjustments but also ensures you get to enjoy this casserole throughout the year with different flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and include extra vegetables or legumes like black beans or mushrooms.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for later use.

→ Can I add different ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with various meats, vegetables, or even different types of cheese.

→ What goes well with this casserole?

Serve with fresh fruit, a side salad, or a selection of pastries for a complete brunch experience.