Make-Ahead Brunch Bake Recipe
Description
This versatile Make-Ahead Brunch Bake is perfect for those busy mornings when you want a delicious meal without the fuss. Modified from a classic Kraft recipe, this dish can easily be tailored to your preferences using whatever ingredients you have on hand. Prepare it the night before and enjoy a hearty brunch after church or any gathering. With its layers of flavor and customizable ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table.
Recipe Details
| Category | Cooking Time | Prep Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Dish Meal | 1 hour | 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | 8 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 281.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 14.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 144.2 mg |
| Sodium | 579.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 21.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 3.7 g |
| Protein | 14.9 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ground beef |
| 2 | Ground sausage |
| 2 | Ham, chopped |
| 2 | Cups corn |
| 2 | Cups tomatoes, diced |
| 2 | Cups broccoli florets |
| 2 | Green peppers, chopped |
| 2 | Cups peas |
| 2 | Cups cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 4 | Eggs |
| 2 | Cups milk |
| 2 | Packages stuffing mix |
Instructions
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Prepare the Base: In a large 9-inch baking dish, combine your choice of meat—ground beef, ground sausage, or ham—with 2 cups of your preferred vegetables, such as corn, diced tomatoes, broccoli florets, green peppers, and peas. Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and one package of stuffing mix, ensuring all ingredients are well distributed.
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Mix the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs and milk using a wire whisk until they are well blended and frothy. This mixture will bind all the ingredients together and add richness to your bake.
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Combine: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the vegetables and meat for even cooking.
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Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to bake the next day.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the cover from the baking dish and bake the brunch bake for 1 hour, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
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Add Cheese: Once the baking time is up, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Allow the Make-Ahead Brunch Bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the medley of flavors with your family and friends!
Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable; feel free to switch out the proteins and vegetables based on your personal taste or what you have available. Here are a few ideas:
- Protein Substitutes: Instead of beef or sausage, try turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Mix: Spinach, zucchini, or even asparagus can be delightful additions or substitutions for the vegetables listed.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
The Make-Ahead Brunch Bake is not only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for gatherings or simple family breakfasts. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!
This recipe not only meets your breakfast needs but also provides a wholesome and hearty dish for any occasion. Make it your own and share the love at your next brunch gathering!
