There’s something magical about breakfast casseroles, don’t you think? They’re the epitome of comfort food, and my go-to is definitely this Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole. I remember the first time I made it for brunch with my family; the aroma wafting through the house was simply irresistible! Everyone was gathered around the table, chatting excitedly, and when I pulled that bubbly, golden dish out of the oven, you could see the eyes light up. It’s like having pizza for breakfast, but in a warm, cozy casserole form. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
Let’s gather everything we need to make this delicious breakfast casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 slices of bread, cubed – I like to use a nice sourdough or whole grain for added flavor.
- 1 cup of pepperoni, sliced – Feel free to grab your favorite brand; the more flavorful, the better!
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese – This is where the gooey goodness comes from; you can never have too much cheese!
- 6 large eggs – These will bind everything together beautifully.
- 2 cups of milk – Whole milk works great, but you can use what you have on hand.
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning – This adds that classic pizza flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Salt and pepper to taste – Just a pinch of each enhances the whole dish!
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go—it makes the assembly a breeze!
How to Prepare the Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delightful casserole! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial, so don’t skip it! While that’s heating up, grab a greased baking dish and layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. I like to use a mix of shapes and sizes for a bit of texture, but it doesn’t have to be perfect.
Next, it’s time to add the flavor! Top the bread with the sliced pepperoni and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over. You want a nice, cheesy layer because who doesn’t love extra cheese, right?
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until it’s all well combined. This mixture is what brings everything together, so give it a good whisk! Now, pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and toppings in your baking dish, making sure to soak that bread nicely.
Pop it in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. Once it’s done, resist the urge to dive in right away! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This casserole is best enjoyed warm, and the cooling time helps everything settle beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Quick preparation time – You can whip this up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Family-friendly and filling – Everyone loves pizza, and this casserole is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites!
- Customizable with favorite toppings – Want to add some veggies or switch up the cheese? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.
- Perfect for meal prep – Make it ahead of time for a convenient breakfast all week long!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again!
Tips for Success with Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
To ensure your Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are my top tips! First, make sure to let the casserole cool for a bit before serving; this helps it set nicely and makes slicing easier. If you want extra flavor, try adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the layers—they’ll add a delicious twist! Also, don’t be shy with seasoning; a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can kick up the flavor if you like a little heat. Lastly, if you prefer a crispier top, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end—just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying this Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole, you might be curious about the nutritional side of things. Each serving (about one slice) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
These values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so feel free to adjust based on any substitutions you make. It’s a hearty dish that balances flavors and satisfaction, making it perfect for a filling breakfast. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ About Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
I know you might have a few questions about this delicious Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole, so let’s tackle them!
Can I prepare this casserole the night before? Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly in the fridge, and just pop it in the oven in the morning. So convenient!
What are some good toppings to add? Great question! You can add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even some olives. If you like a little spice, try adding jalapeños!
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Serving Suggestions for Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
This Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is truly a star on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your breakfast experience even more! I love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. You might also consider some sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy twist. And don’t forget the drinks! A chilled glass of orange juice or a steaming cup of coffee makes the perfect accompaniment. Trust me, this combo will have everyone raving about breakfast!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy those delicious flavors throughout the week. When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that delightful texture. Just preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place a slice on a baking sheet, and warm it up for about 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just pop it in for about a minute, and you’re good to go! Enjoy every bite again!
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole: 5 Cozy Layers of Yum
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A savory breakfast casserole featuring layers of pepperoni, cheese, and eggs.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of pepperoni, sliced
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, layer the cubed bread.
- Top with pepperoni and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and toppings in the baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite toppings.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can prepare this casserole the night before and bake it in the morning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole