Cheesy Egg Bake Dish is a delightful way to start your day, combining the rich flavors of cheese with the comforting texture of eggs. This dish has roots in various cultures, often appearing at brunch tables and family gatherings, where it brings people together over a shared love for hearty, satisfying meals. I remember the first time I tried a cheesy egg bake; the aroma wafting through the kitchen was simply irresistible, and the first bite was a perfect blend of creamy cheese and fluffy eggs that left me craving more.
What makes the Cheesy Egg Bake Dish so beloved is its versatility and convenience. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, meats, or spices, making it a perfect canvas for creativity. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply looking for a quick breakfast option, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of gooey cheese and perfectly baked eggs creates a comforting experience that warms the soul. Join me as we explore this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup diced cooked ham or cooked sausage (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional, such as parsley or chives)
Preparing the Batter
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cheesy egg bake will cook evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Grease the Baking Dish**: Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with olive oil or butter. This will prevent the egg bake from sticking and make for easier serving later. 3. **Whisk the Eggs**: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs. Using a whisk, beat the eggs until they are well combined and frothy. This should take about 1-2 minutes. 4. **Add the Milk**: Pour in 1 cup of whole milk to the beaten eggs. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The milk adds richness and helps to create a fluffy texture in the final dish. 5. **Season the Mixture**: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk again to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the egg mixture. 6. **Incorporate the Cheese**: Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed, as this will create delicious cheesy pockets throughout the bake.Adding the Vegetables and Meat
7. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Dice your bell peppers into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using fresh herbs, chop them finely as well. 8. **Mix in the Vegetables**: Add the diced bell peppers and chopped green onions to the egg and cheese mixture. If you’re including meat, add the diced cooked ham or sausage at this stage. Stir everything together gently until well combined. 9. **Check the Consistency**: The mixture should be thick but pourable. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash more milk to loosen it up a bit.Cooking Process
10. **Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish**: Carefully pour the egg mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that the vegetables and cheese are distributed throughout. 11. **Bake the Egg Dish**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. 12. **Check for Doneness**: If the top is browning too quickly but the center is still jiggly, you can cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while it finishes cooking.Cooling and Serving
13. **Let it Cool**: Once the egg bake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut and serve. 14. **Slice and Serve**: Using a sharp knife, cut the cheesy egg bake into squares or rectangles. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. 15. **Enjoy**: This dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Pair it with a side salad or some fresh fruit for a complete meal.Storage and Reheating
16. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, let the egg bake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. 17. **Reheating**: To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. 18. **Freezing**: If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can freeze
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