New recipes straight to your inbox Follow on Pinterest
Hushrecipes
Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake
Breakfast Bakes

Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

Prep20 min
Cook35 min
Total55 min
Serves8
Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake
Golden Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

I still remember the first time I made Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake for my family. It was a chilly winter morning, and the aroma of freshly baked monkey bread filled our home, making everyone's mouth water. My kids loved helping me prepare the ingredients, and my husband was impressed by the ease of making such a delicious breakfast dish.

As a h​ome cook, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are not only tasty but also easy to make and perfect for busy mornings. This Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake recipe is a game-changer. It's a one-dish wonder that can be prepared in no time and is sure to become a family favorite.

The best part about this recipe is that it's highly customizable. You can use your favorite fillings, such as sausage, bacon, or ham, and add some diced veggies like bell peppers or onions. The possibilities are endless, and I love that about this recipe.

So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast casserole that's perfect for weekends, holidays, or even busy weekdays, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll share my secrets for making the perfect Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake, including the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions.

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, let's get started and make some delicious Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time.
  • It's perfect for weekends, holidays, or busy weekdays when you need a quick and delicious breakfast.
  • The monkey bread provides a nice texture and flavor, while the eggs and cheese add creaminess and richness.
  • You can customize the recipe to your liking by using your favorite fillings and ingredients.
  • It's a great way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste.
  • The casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use.
  • It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for serving to large groups of people.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making a great Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake is to use the right combination of ingredients and to cook it at the right temperature. The monkey bread provides a nice texture and flavor, while the eggs and cheese add creaminess and richness.

The cooking process is also crucial. By baking the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, we ensure that the eggs are cooked through, and the monkey bread is golden brown. The result is a delicious, fluffy, and savory breakfast dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the layering of ingredients. By placing the monkey bread at the bottom, followed by the egg mixture, and finally the cheese and any desired fillings, we create a beautiful and flavorful casserole that's sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including monkey bread, eggs, cheese, and your desired fillings. When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality items that will add flavor and texture to your dish. For example, use freshly baked monkey bread and real cheese for the best results.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of savory and sweet ingredients to create a unique and delicious flavor profile. From the gooey cheese to the crispy monkey bread, every ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish a success.

  • 1 (12-ounce) package monkey bread, cut into 1-inch piecesFreshly baked monkey bread is essential for this recipe. You can either make your own or purchase it from a bakery. If using store-bought, try to find a high-quality brand that is soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
  • 6 large eggsUse room temperature eggs for the best results. This will help the eggs mix more easily with the other ingredients and create a lighter, fluffier texture.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheeseYou can use any type of cheese you like, but cheddar is a classic choice for breakfast dishes. Feel free to mix and match different types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup diced cooked sausageUse your favorite type of sausage, such as breakfast sausage or Italian sausage. You can also use cooked bacon or ham if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppersAny color bell pepper will work, but red or orange adds a nice pop of color to the dish. You can also use other vegetables, such as onions or mushrooms, if you like.
  • 1/2 cup diced onionUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use shallots or scallions if you prefer.
  • 2 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thymeThyme adds a nice savory flavor to the dish. You can also use other herbs, such as parsley or basil, if you like.
  • 1/2 teaspoon saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. You can also use table salt if you prefer.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use white pepper or green pepper if you prefer.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, meltedUse high-quality butter for the best flavor. You can also use margarine or other types of oil if you prefer.
Ingredients for Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlWhisk9x13-inch baking dishInstant-read thermometerCheese graterCutting board

How to Make Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cheese, sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. 3
    Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and stir until smooth.
  4. 4
    Cut the monkey bread into 1-inch pieces and place half of them in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. 5
    Pour the egg mixture over the monkey bread in the baking dish.
  6. 6
    Top the egg mixture with the remaining monkey bread pieces.
  7. 7
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. 8
    Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. 9
    Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  10. 10
    Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the casserole. The temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
  11. 11
    Slice the casserole into individual servings and serve hot.

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality ingredients, such as freshly baked monkey bread and real cheese, for the best flavor.
  • Don't overmix the egg mixture, as this can create a tough or rubbery texture.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the eggs to set and the flavors to meld together.
  • Use a variety of fillings, such as sausage, bacon, or ham, to create a unique and delicious flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella, to find your favorite.
  • Consider making the casserole ahead of time and refrigerating or freezing it for later use.
  • Use a cheese grater to grate the cheese fresh for the best flavor.
  • Don't overcrowd the baking dish, as this can prevent the casserole from cooking evenly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the egg mixture, which can create a tough or rubbery texture.
  • Not using high-quality ingredients, such as freshly baked monkey bread and real cheese.
  • Not letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving, which can cause the eggs to be runny or the flavors to be unbalanced.
  • Overcrowding the baking dish, which can prevent the casserole from cooking evenly.
  • Not using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the casserole, which can lead to food safety issues.
  • Not covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first 25 minutes of baking, which can cause the top to brown too quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add some diced ham or bacon to the egg mixture for added flavor.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, to create a unique flavor profile.
  • Add some chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the egg mixture for added flavor.
  • Use a variety of fillings, such as sausage, bacon, or ham, to create a unique and delicious flavor profile.
  • Experiment with different types of bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, to create a unique texture and flavor.
  • Add some diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or onions, to the egg mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use a cheese grater to grate the cheese fresh for the best flavor.

What to Serve With Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

This Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake is perfect for serving to a crowd, whether it's a holiday gathering or a weekend brunch. You can serve it with a variety of sides, such as fresh fruit, hash browns, or yogurt parfait.

Consider pairing it with a refreshing drink, such as orange juice or coffee, for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch. You can also serve it with a green salad or a fruit salad for a lighter option.

Fresh fruitHash brownsYogurt parfaitOrange juiceCoffeeGreen saladFruit salad

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, simply cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

To freeze, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Reheating the casserole is easy. Simply cover it with aluminum foil and bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the eggs to become tough or rubbery.

When reheating, make sure to check the internal temperature of the casserole to ensure food safety. The temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) to prevent foodborne illness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply follow the instructions for refrigerating or freezing, and then reheat it when you're ready to serve.

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes, you can use different types of bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, to create a unique texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.

Can I add other fillings to the egg mixture?

Yes, you can add other fillings, such as diced ham or bacon, to the egg mixture to create a unique and delicious flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.

How do I store the casserole?

You can store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months. Simply follow the instructions for refrigerating or freezing, and then reheat it when you're ready to serve.

Can I reheat the casserole in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat the casserole in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, as this can cause the eggs to become tough or rubbery. Simply cover the casserole with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and heat it on high for about 30-60 seconds, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

What is the internal temperature of the casserole when it's done?

The internal temperature of the casserole should be at least 160°F (71°C) when it's done. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can make this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients as needed, and adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. You can also make individual servings of the casserole for a more personalized touch.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly fillings, such as bell peppers or onions. Simply omit the sausage or bacon, and add your favorite vegetarian fillings to the egg mixture.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

Monkey Bread Breakfast Bake

A delicious, easy-to-make breakfast casserole with monkey bread, perfect for weekends and holidays, made with love and care in my home kitchen

Prep20 min
Cook35 min
Total55 min
Serves8
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 (12-ounce) package monkey bread, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced cooked sausage
  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cheese, sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Add the melted butter to the egg mixture and stir until smooth.
  4. Cut the monkey bread into 1-inch pieces and place half of them in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Pour the egg mixture over the monkey bread in the baking dish.
  6. Top the egg mixture with the remaining monkey bread pieces.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  9. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
  10. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the casserole. The temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
  11. Slice the casserole into individual servings and serve hot.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

350Calories
20gProtein
30gCarbs
15gFat