Muffin Breakfast Casserole: A Hearty Start to Your Day

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm, cheesy breakfast casserole wafting through your kitchen. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate—a meal that not only fills your belly but warms your soul. If you’re looking for a wholesome, satisfying way to start your morning, a muffin breakfast casserole is the answer.

This dish combines the fluffiness of English muffins, the savory bite of ham or Canadian bacon, and the richness of eggs and cheese into a single casserole that’s perfect for feeding your family or guests. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weekday morning or a leisurely Sunday brunch, this muffin breakfast casserole will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep work makes it accessible for busy mornings.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Great for feeding a group at brunch gatherings or family breakfasts.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the night before for a stress-free morning.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with protein, whole grains, and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this muffin breakfast casserole, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Wheat English muffins	6
Diced ham or Canadian bacon	2 ½ cups
Eggs	10
Skim milk	2 cups
Plain non-fat Greek yogurt	½ cup
Grated parmesan cheese	¼ cup
Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded	8 ounces
Ground mustard	½ teaspoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon

Step-By-Step Instructions for the Perfect Muffin Breakfast Casserole

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

The first step in creating your muffin breakfast casserole is to prepare all your ingredients.

• Slice the English muffins into bite-sized pieces. These will form the base of your casserole.
• Dice the ham or Canadian bacon into small chunks.
• Shred the sharp cheddar cheese if it’s not pre-shredded. Freshly grated cheese melts better and offers a richer flavor.

2. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you are. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

3. Assemble the Base

Spread the sliced English muffins evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the diced ham or Canadian bacon over the muffins to ensure every bite gets a hit of savory flavor.

4. Make the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:

• Crack the 10 eggs.
• Add the skim milk, Greek yogurt, ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Whisk everything together until smooth and well-combined. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess without extra fat, making the casserole rich and flavorful.

5. Add the Cheese

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. Save the remaining cheddar for the topping.

6. Pour and Layer

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the muffin and ham layers in your baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the ingredients, ensuring they’re well-soaked in the egg mixture.

7. Top It Off

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a gooey, golden crust when baked.

8. Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set, and the top is golden brown. To check, insert a knife into the middle—if it comes out clean, your breakfast masterpiece is ready.

Pro Tips for the Best Muffin Breakfast Casserole

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and cheese make a big difference in flavor.
• Customize Your Add-Ins: Add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions for extra nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a kick.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make-Ahead Option

You can assemble the casserole the night before. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. The next morning, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, and bake as directed.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, cut the casserole into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional value per serving (based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290
Protein	23g
Carbohydrates	16g
Fat	14g
Fiber	2g
Calcium	220mg

This casserole is high in protein and low in fat, making it a balanced choice for breakfast.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Classic Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• On-The-Go Breakfast: Slice it into squares and pack them for a portable breakfast or snack.
• Brunch Spread: Pair it with mimosas, bagels, and pastries for a crowd-pleasing brunch menu.

FAQs About Muffin Breakfast Casserole

1. Can I use other types of bread instead of English muffins?

Yes, you can substitute English muffins with other bread types like croissants, bagels, or even whole-grain bread for added fiber.

2. How do I make this casserole vegetarian?

Simply replace the ham or Canadian bacon with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

3. Can I use almond milk instead of skim milk?

Absolutely! Unsweetened almond milk or any other milk alternative works just fine.

4. How can I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Ensure the English muffins are slightly toasted before assembling the casserole. This prevents them from soaking up too much liquid.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

6. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free English muffins or bread as a substitute.

Your Next Breakfast Staple

This muffin breakfast casserole is a game-changer for anyone who wants a hearty, flavorful, and easy breakfast option. Whether you’re hosting brunch or meal-prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s versatile, nutritious, and downright delicious. So, the next time you’re craving something cozy and satisfying, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!