Best Oatmeal Breakfast Bake

You know those mornings when you wake up late and the kids are yelling while the toast is burnt, so your coffee tastes…meh? Yeah, me too because that’s exactly when I discovered Breakfast Bake.

Honestly, I hadn’t even planned to make it that day, since I had a bunch of leftover bread and some sad-looking veggies in the fridge, as well as a tiny bit of cheese hiding in the back. But guess what? The Breakfast Bake turned out amazing because it was like, shockingly amazing.

I still remember my first bite because I was so tired and expecting disappointment, yet it was soft and just the right amount of savory. Have you ever tried Breakfast Bake that feels like a hug?

That’s exactly what this is and don’t worry if your kitchen’s a mess or your chopping isn’t perfect since that’s the beauty of it because mistakes are totally allowed and burned edges just add character so I promise it tastes way better than it looks sometimes.

ingredients

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or bacon, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 2 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

ingredients notes

• Eggs: These are the main part of our bake. They make it soft and fluffy.
• Milk: Helps the eggs stay creamy and light.
• Cheese: You can use any cheese you like, even mix two kinds for extra flavor.
• Meat: Sausage or bacon adds a yummy salty taste. You can skip it if you want a veggie version.
• Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, and spinach add color, flavor, and healthy vitamins.
• Bread: Day-old bread soaks up the egg mixture nicely without getting too soggy.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional spices make everything taste better.

How to make Breakfast Bake?

step 1: prepare the oven and pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This keeps the bake from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

step 2: cook your meat

If using sausage or bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Then chop into small pieces. If you like, you can drain extra fat, so it’s not too greasy.

step 3: chop the vegetables

Dice your bell pepper and onion into small pieces. Chop spinach roughly. This makes them cook evenly and taste delicious in every bite.

step 4: mix the eggs and milk

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth. Add salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or paprika. This is the “egg sauce” that holds everything together.

step 5: combine all ingredients

Add your bread cubes, cooked meat, vegetables, and half of the cheese into the egg mixture. Stir gently until everything is coated.

step 6: pour into the pan

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top so it melts and turns golden in the oven.

step 7: bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly browned. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

step 8: cool and serve

Let the breakfast bake cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes it easier to serve.

kitchen equipment needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

storage options!

Breakfast bake can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. To reheat, microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes, or warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil and thaw in the fridge before reheating.

variations!

You can make breakfast bake in many ways! Swap sausage for ham or bacon. Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick. Add mushrooms, zucchini, or tomatoes for more veggies. Try using whole wheat bread for a healthier version. You can even make it vegetarian by skipping the meat entirely. The options are endless!

what to enjoy with Breakfast Bake?

The first time I tried this recipe, I was shocked because it turned out way better than I expected and the flavors all came together perfectly so I grabbed a slice and then I thought, hmm what else could go well with this? That’s when I remembered the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars in the pantry.

Wow, these pairings are amazing because the sweet bars balance the savory Breakfast Bake, the cheesy pumpkin ball adds a fun crunch, so have you ever tried Breakfast Bake with something unexpected? Because I swear it’s a game changer, and also it makes breakfast feel like a little celebration?

Because it keeps things feeling light and adds a little brightness, I also like to eat my breakfast bake with a side of fresh fruit salad. Seeing these meals on my table with my spouse and happy kids at the end made me very pleased.

tips for making the best breakfast bake

• Use day-old bread to avoid soggy texture.
• Don’t overmix the egg mixture, or the bake can get tough.
• Let it cool slightly before cutting to keep slices neat.
• Add your favorite herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
• Taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasoning.

FAQs

what is breakfast bake made of?

It’s made of eggs, milk, bread, cheese, meat like sausage or bacon, and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and spinach.

can i make it vegetarian?

Yes! Simply leave out the meat and use extra vegetables or cheese.

can i use different cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a mix works great.

can i prep it the night before?

Yes! Assemble the bake in the evening, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning.

how long does it last in the fridge?

Up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container.

can i freeze breakfast bake?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

is it kid-friendly?

Very much! Kids love the soft eggs and melty cheese. You can sneak in veggies too.

can i add more vegetables?

Yes, carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or tomatoes all work well.

what does it taste like?

It’s cheesy, savory, soft, and fluffy with a mix of flavors from meat and veggies.

is it gluten-free?

Not with regular bread, but you can use gluten-free bread.

can i make it spicy?

Sure! Add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a pinch of chili powder.

what drink goes best with it?

Milk, orange juice, coffee, or cocoa all pair nicely with breakfast bake.