Easy Brunch Casserole – Make-Ahead Breakfast Recipe

If you love waking up to the smell of a warm, comforting breakfast but don’t love spending hours in the kitchen first thing in the morning, then this Easy Brunch Casserole is for you. Inspired by the beloved Eggs Benedict, this recipe takes all the flavors of the classic brunch dish—savory Canadian bacon, fluffy eggs, and buttery English muffins—and turns them into a rich, creamy, make-ahead casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, prepping for a holiday morning, or simply want an easy gourmet breakfast that feels indulgent without the stress, this dish hits the mark. Not only is it simple to prep the night before, but it also bakes to golden, flavorful perfection while you sip your coffee and relax.

So, if you’ve been searching for a brunch make ahead dish that delivers in both taste and presentation, or you’re curious about making a Joanna Gaines Eggs Benedict Casserole at home, keep reading—this might just become your new favorite breakfast recipe.

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What Is an Easy Brunch Casserole?

An easy brunch casserole is a one-dish meal designed to bring all the classic breakfast flavors together in one warm, satisfying bite. In this version, it’s all about channeling the essence of Eggs Benedict—the luxurious combination of English muffins, Canadian bacon, eggs, and creamy hollandaise—into a dish that’s baked instead of assembled individually.

While traditional Eggs Benedict requires careful poaching and timing, this casserole simplifies everything. Layered and baked in a single pan, it’s much less work but just as delicious. The texture is soft but structured, the flavor is rich without being too heavy, and the best part is, you can make it ahead and bake it fresh the next day.

Why This Casserole Is Perfect for Brunch

This dish is practically made for brunch. First of all, it feeds a crowd, which makes it ideal for family gatherings, baby showers, or Sunday mornings with friends. Secondly, it’s a true brunch make ahead winner—prep everything the night before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.

Additionally, it looks elegant and tastes like something straight out of a boutique café, yet it’s incredibly easy to make. The balance of savory Canadian bacon, soft bread, and rich egg custard means it feels fancy without the fuss. If you’ve ever tried a Taste of Home breakfast casserole, you know how satisfying these baked dishes can be.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Canadian bacon breakfast casserole:

• 6 English muffins, split and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz Canadian bacon, diced
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss or cheddar work great)
• 1 packet hollandaise sauce mix (plus ingredients to prepare, usually butter and milk)

These ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly, yet they come together to make something truly delicious.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this casserole, you’ll need just a few common kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Skillet (optional, for browning bacon if desired)
• Foil (for covering while baking)

As you can see, no fancy appliances are needed—making this perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish and preheat the oven to 375°F (if baking immediately).
2. Layer the base: Spread the chopped English muffins evenly in the bottom of the dish. Top with the diced Canadian bacon.
3. Mix the egg custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour and chill: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and bacon layers. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight—or for at least 2 hours if you’re short on time.
5. Bake the casserole: Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Prepare the hollandaise: While the casserole finishes baking, prepare the hollandaise sauce according to the package directions.
7. Serve: Drizzle the warm hollandaise over each serving, or serve on the side for guests to spoon over themselves.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use stale bread or toast the muffins: This prevents sogginess and gives the casserole structure.
• Let the casserole rest before baking: Chilling allows the custard to absorb fully into the bread.
• Don’t overbake: Once the center is just set and no longer jiggly, it’s done.
• Add fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or chives adds brightness and a gourmet touch.

By following these tips, your brunch casserole will come out beautifully every time.

Customization Ideas

Although this version is based on Joanna Gaines’ Eggs Benedict Casserole, you can easily switch it up:

• Vegetarian: Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers.
• Sausage instead of bacon: Ground sausage adds a slightly spicy twist.
• Bread alternatives: Try croissants or brioche for extra richness.
• Cheese upgrades: Gruyère, fontina, or pepper jack can elevate the flavor.

As with many Thebigmansworld recipes, versatility is key—you can make it your own while sticking to the basics.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even easy recipes can be improved by avoiding a few pitfalls:

• Too much liquid: Measure carefully to prevent the casserole from being too soft.
• Skipping the chill: Allow time for the custard to soak into the bread.
• Burning the top: Cover with foil during the first bake to prevent over-browning.
• Uneven layering: Spread everything evenly for consistent texture.

These small adjustments make a big difference in the final result.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once baked, this casserole is golden, puffy, and full of aroma. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a rustic feel, or cut it into squares and plate individually with a drizzle of hollandaise.

Here are a few ways to dress it up:

• Top with chopped chives or green onions
• Add a light side salad with vinaigrette
• Serve with seasonal fruit or a smoothie
• Include fresh croissants or muffins on the table

This easy gourmet breakfast looks as good as it tastes!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes.

Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Whether served fresh or reheated, the flavors stay delicious.

Best Pairings and Side Suggestions

To round out your brunch table, consider these no-alcohol drink and side pairings:

• Fresh orange juice or sparkling water with berries
• Iced herbal tea or chai latte
• Crispy hash browns or sweet potato fries
• Mini muffins, pastries, or fruit salad

These pairings enhance the overall meal and create a full easy brunch make ahead spread.

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FAQs About Easy Brunch Casserole

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk and a dairy-free hollandaise.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute gluten-free bread or muffins.

Do I have to use hollandaise?
It’s traditional, but you can skip it or replace with cheese sauce if preferred.

Can I bake it without chilling?
Yes, but the texture improves with at least 2 hours of rest.

Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely—kids love the cheesy, soft texture and familiar flavors.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a breakfast casserole with Canadian bacon that’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for entertaining, this Easy Brunch Casserole delivers. It’s cozy enough for a quiet morning and impressive enough for special occasions.

So go ahead—make this your next brunch centerpiece. And if you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends, and subscribe to our blog for more easy brunch make ahead ideas and Taste of Home-inspired breakfasts the whole family will enjoy.

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