Breakfast casseroles are like a warm hug in the morning, and let me tell you, my Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser! Imagine layers of fluffy eggs, gooey mozzarella, and zesty pepperoni all baked to perfection—it’s the ultimate way to start your day. I remember the first time I made this for a family brunch; my kitchen was filled with the most heavenly aroma, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in! The kids loved it, and even the adults were sneaking back for seconds. It’s easy to whip up and perfect for gatherings, so you can spend more time enjoying your coffee and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll become a cherished staple in your breakfast repertoire!
Ingredients List
- 8 slices of bread, cubed (I love using a hearty sourdough or Italian bread for extra flavor!)
- 1 cup of pepperoni slices (feel free to cut them into smaller pieces for more even distribution)
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese (the gooier, the better—trust me on this one!)
- 6 large eggs (I always go for farm-fresh if I can find them)
- 2 cups of milk (whole milk gives it that rich and creamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (this adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning; it really brings everything together!)
How to Prepare the Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
Making this Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is a breeze! Let’s dive into the step-by-step process so you can create this delicious dish with confidence.
Prepping the Baking Dish
First things first, you’ll want to grease your baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish for this recipe. Just grab some cooking spray or a little butter and rub it all over the bottom and sides. This will help ensure that your casserole slides right out when it’s done. Trust me, you don’t want it to stick!
Layering the Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part—layering! Start by placing half of the cubed bread at the bottom of your greased dish. Make sure it’s spread out evenly. Next, sprinkle half of the pepperoni slices over the bread, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread, pepperoni, and cheese. You want to see those beautiful layers, so don’t rush this part! Once you’ve got it all stacked up, it’s time to move on to the egg mixture.
Mixing the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until everything’s well combined. This is where the magic happens—seasoning is key! Make sure to whisk thoroughly to break up any egg whites. Once it looks nice and smooth, gently pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in your baking dish. It’ll soak into the bread, making every bite delightful!
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pop that casserole in for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are set and the top is golden brown. I like to give it a little jiggle; if it doesn’t wobble too much, you’re good! Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this will help it hold its shape and make it easier to cut. Enjoy every cheesy, pepperoni-filled bite!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t skip the greasing step—it’s crucial for a smooth release after baking. If you want to lighten things up, swap out regular pepperoni for turkey pepperoni, or even try some diced veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Another tip: let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after baking before serving. This waiting period helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. And if you’re making it ahead of time, prepare it the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. Just pop it in the oven the next morning—how convenient is that? Enjoy your delicious breakfast masterpiece!
Variations of the Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole
The beauty of my Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is how easy it is to customize! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add some veggies? Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can bring a fresh twist and pack in some extra nutrients. If you want a little kick, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat!
As for the cheese, you can swap out the mozzarella for provolone or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. And don’t forget about the toppings! After baking, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, these simple variations will keep your breakfast casserole exciting every time you make it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of my delicious Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a good idea:
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This casserole is not just delicious but also packed with protein to keep you fueled for the day ahead. Enjoy every cheesy bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to a satisfying breakfast!
FAQ Section
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about my Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole is that it can be prepped the night before. Just layer everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, all you have to do is remove the wrap and bake it straight from the fridge. It’s a real time-saver for busy mornings!
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for alternatives to pepperoni, you’ve got options! Turkey pepperoni is a lighter choice that still delivers great flavor. You can also get creative with veggies—diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini can add a delicious twist. If you’re a fan of sausage, feel free to swap in some cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage for a hearty change!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Storing leftovers is super easy! Just cover the casserole with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should keep well for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can either reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Easy peasy!
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, I highly recommend serving my Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole with some fresh fruit on the side. A light fruit salad featuring juicy strawberries, sweet melon, and zesty citrus will brighten up your plate and balance the richness of the casserole perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing crunch. Either way, you’ll have a deliciously satisfying breakfast that everyone will love!
Print
Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole: 3 Creamy Layers to Love
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A savory breakfast casserole with layers of pepperoni, cheese, and eggs.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 1 cup of pepperoni slices
- 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).
- Grease a baking dish.
- Layer half of the bread slices at the bottom of the dish.
- Add half of the pepperoni and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the eggs are set.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or onions.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: Pepperoni Pizza Breakfast Casserole