Hosting a brunch for a crowd can feel like a daunting task, but let me tell you, it doesn’t have to be! I remember the first time I decided to throw a brunch for my friends. I was excited, but also a bit overwhelmed trying to figure out what to make that would please everyone and still be easy to prepare. That’s when I discovered the magic of simple, hearty dishes that can feed a group without breaking a sweat. Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of something delicious baking in the oven while you sip on your coffee and catch up with friends!
This recipe for a savory egg bake is my go-to when I want to impress without the stress. It’s packed with flavor, easy to whip up, and can feed a crowd with ease. Plus, it’s super versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or swap out the sausage for bacon or even keep it vegetarian. It’s all about making your brunch experience enjoyable and stress-free. So grab your ingredients, and let’s dive right into these new! brunch recipes for a crowd—you’ll be the brunch hero before you know it!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious egg bake for your brunch gathering. It’s a straightforward list, so no need to stress—just gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to brunch bliss!
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best for creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (I love a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, but feel free to use your favorite!)
- 1 pound cooked sausage (Italian sausage adds great flavor, but bacon or a veggie option works too)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color you like—red, green, or yellow for a pop of color!)
- 1 cup diced onions (sweet onions are my favorite for a milder taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the veggies)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but start small—you can always add more!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick!)
Make sure to check your pantry for any of these ingredients before heading to the store. I always find it handy to have a few extras on hand, just in case I get inspired to make a last-minute tweak. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare the New! Brunch Recipes for a Crowd
Alright, let’s get cooking! Preparing this delicious egg bake is super simple and totally rewarding. Just follow these steps, and I promise you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish in no time!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your egg bake cooks evenly. No one wants a soggy center, right? So set your oven and let it warm up while you work on the rest of the recipe!
Whisk the Egg Mixture
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together those 12 large eggs and 1 cup of milk. I like to use a whisk for this—it makes it easier to get everything nicely combined. You want a smooth mixture with a bit of fluffiness to it! If you happen to have an electric mixer, that’ll work too, but a good old whisk should do the trick just fine.
Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to mix in the good stuff! Add in the cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, diced onions, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely combined. This is where you can get creative! Want to toss in some spinach or mushrooms? Go for it! Just make sure everything is evenly distributed in the egg mixture.
Cook on the Stovetop
Heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you’ll see it shimmering), pour your egg mixture into the skillet. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the edges start to set and you see those lovely curds forming. You can gently lift the edges with a spatula to let the uncooked egg flow underneath. This step is key to getting that perfect texture!
Bake the Dish
Carefully sprinkle those 2 cups of shredded cheese on top (I love a good cheesy layer!). Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the eggs are fully set and the top is slightly golden. Pro tip: insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. If it’s still runny, just pop it back in for another few minutes!
Cool and Slice
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This makes slicing easier and prevents you from burning your fingers (trust me, I’ve been there!). Once it’s slightly cooled, cut it into squares, and serve warm. It’s perfect on its own, but feel free to pair it with a fresh salad or some crispy toast for a complete brunch spread!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to whip up this fabulous egg bake, here are some handy tips to ensure everything goes smoothly. Trust me; these little pointers can make a big difference!
- Check for Doneness: It’s super important to check if your egg bake is fully cooked. Remember that toothpick test? If it comes out clean, you’re golden! If not, just give it a few more minutes in the oven. You want it set, not jiggly!
- Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t have sausage on hand? No worries! Bacon, ham, or even a mix of your favorite veggies work beautifully too. Just make sure any meat you use is cooked beforehand. And if you want to keep it vegetarian, load up on extra peppers, mushrooms, or spinach!
- Season to Taste: When it comes to salt and pepper, start with a little and add more as needed. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so you might want to let your guests sprinkle on their own seasoning if they like!
- Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepped the night before! Just combine all the ingredients and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, all you have to do is pour it into the skillet and bake—easy peasy!
- Keep an Eye on the Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover like me, don’t skimp on that cheesy layer! Just be careful not to let it burn. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil while it bakes.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to brunch success. Happy cooking, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to come your way!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious egg bake ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your brunch experience! Trust me, a few complementary dishes and drinks can really take your gathering to the next level.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus not only adds a refreshing touch but also balances the savory flavors of your egg bake. Plus, it brings a lovely pop of color to your table!
- Breakfast Potatoes: Crispy roasted or sautéed potatoes seasoned with herbs can be a fantastic side. They’re hearty and pair perfectly with the egg bake. You can even toss in some diced onions and bell peppers to tie everything together!
- Toast Bar: Set up a little toast station with various breads and toppings. Think avocado spread, cream cheese, or even flavored butters. It’s fun, interactive, and your guests will love customizing their own creations!
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer some yogurt with granola and fruit in individual cups for a light and tasty dessert option. It’s a sweet way to finish off the meal and adds a nice crunch!
- Refreshing Beverages: Don’t forget the drinks! A selection of coffee and tea is a must, but consider adding a fun twist with mimosas or a fruity punch. Sparkling water with slices of lemon or cucumber can also be a refreshing non-alcoholic option!
With these serving suggestions, your brunch will not only be delicious but also visually appealing and satisfying for your guests. Enjoy creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, and don’t forget to relax and enjoy the time with your friends and family!
Nutritional Information
As you gather around the table with your friends and family, it’s good to know what you’re serving up! Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each serving of this delightful egg bake. Keep in mind these are just estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g
This dish is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also packs a nice protein punch to keep you fueled for your day ahead. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re treating yourself and your guests to something delicious and nourishing!
FAQ Section
Got questions? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most frequently asked questions about this egg bake recipe. Let’s dive in!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap out the sausage for your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also use plant-based sausage if you want that meaty flavor without the meat. It’s super flexible!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, because it’s that good!), let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Just cut it into squares, wrap them tightly, and pop them in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I add different ingredients?
For sure! This recipe is all about customization. Love spicy food? Add some jalapeños or hot sauce! Want more greens? Toss in some kale or spinach. You can really make it your own, and that’s the best part!
What if I don’t have a skillet?
No skillet? No problem! You can use a large oven-safe baking dish instead. Just follow the same steps and keep an eye on the baking time since it might vary a bit depending on the dish you use.
Can I prepare this the night before?
You bet! Just mix all your ingredients, cover it, and pop it in the fridge overnight. In the morning, pour it into your skillet and bake. It’s a real lifesaver for busy mornings!
How do I know when it’s done?
Great question! Look for the edges to be set and the center to be firm. Remember that toothpick test? Stick one in the center, and if it comes out clean, it’s ready to go! Just keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary.
Got more questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments! I love helping out fellow brunch enthusiasts!
Your Next Steps
Now that you’ve got all the details for this scrumptious egg bake, it’s time to get cooking! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. If you try this recipe, please come back and let me know how it went! Did you make any fun substitutions? Any special toppings you added? I love hearing your stories and ideas!
Also, if you have any questions while you’re cooking, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below. I’m here to help you out and make sure your brunch is a hit! And if you enjoyed this recipe, feel free to share it with your friends and family. The more, the merrier when it comes to brunch!
So, gather your ingredients, set your table, and enjoy the wonderful experience of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Happy brunching, and I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures!
Print
New! Brunch Recipes for a Crowd: 5 Steps to Success
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious brunch recipes perfect for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 pound cooked sausage
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Add the cooked sausage, bell peppers, onions, salt, and pepper to the egg mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Pour the egg mixture into the skillet. Cook until the edges start to set.
- Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- You can substitute sausage with bacon or vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: new brunch recipes for a crowd
