Easy Make-Ahead Brunch Recipe

Easy Make-Ahead Brunch Recipe

Cheesy Turkey Bacon and Red Pepper Breakfast Casserole – Easy Make-Ahead Brunch Recipe

This Cheesy Turkey Bacon and Red Pepper Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting breakfast packed with fluffy eggs, crispy turkey bacon, tender potatoes, sweet bell peppers, and melted cheese. Every bite combines savory flavors with a deliciously creamy texture.

Perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or family gatherings, this easy breakfast casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh the following morning. 

With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this easy cheesy breakfast casserole is an excellent choice when you need a satisfying meal that feeds the whole family.

Why You'll Love This Breakfast Casserole

  • Hearty and filling: Eggs, potatoes, cheese, and turkey bacon make a satisfying breakfast.
  • Easy to prepare: Simple steps and everyday ingredients.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Prepare ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
  • Deliciously cheesy: Cheddar and mozzarella create a creamy, melted topping.
  • Colorful vegetables: Red bell peppers add sweetness and freshness.
  • Great for gatherings: One baking dish provides eight generous servings.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40–50 minutes
  • Resting Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Course: Breakfast, Brunch
  • Cuisine: American-Inspired
  • Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for Cheesy Turkey Bacon Breakfast Casserole

  • 10 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 8 slices halal turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and squeezed dry
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or chives, optional

Ingredient tip: Choose fully cooked or cook-before-eating halal turkey bacon according to its packaging. Turkey bacon is generally leaner than traditional bacon, so a small amount of butter helps it brown without drying out.

How to Make Cheesy Turkey Bacon and Red Pepper Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the turkey bacon and cook according to the package instructions until browned and slightly crisp.

Transfer to a plate, allow it to cool, and chop into small pieces.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the butter to the skillet.

Stir in the diced onion and red bell pepper.

Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and release some of their moisture.

Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Hash Browns

Place the thawed hash browns in a clean kitchen towel.

Squeeze firmly to remove excess moisture. This step helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Spread the potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Turkey Bacon and Vegetables

Scatter the cooked turkey bacon, sautéed onion, and red bell pepper over the hash browns.

Distribute everything evenly so each serving contains a balanced amount of filling.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle 1½ cups cheddar cheese and all the mozzarella over the turkey bacon and vegetables.

Reserve the remaining cheddar for the topping.

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