Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), unless you are making this the night before.
Beat the eggs, milk, and pepper in a medium. Set aside.
6 eggs, 1 ¾ cups milk, ¾ teaspoon pepper
Place the cubes of bread in a 9x13 baking dish sprayed with non stick cooking spray.
8 ounces bread, cubed
Layer ingredients on top in this order: bacon, mushrooms, hash browns, cheese.
1 pound cooked bacon, roughly chopped, 1 cup white mushrooms, roughly chopped, 1 cup hash browns, 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar
Pour the egg mixture on top (give it a good mix, first).
If you are making this the night before, cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Otherwise, let the dish stand for 5-10 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes (a little longer if the dish was in the refrigerator overnight), until the eggs are cooked and the cheese is melted and browning.
Notes
To prep in advance, assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover and refrigerate so you can simply bake in the morning.
If desired, add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes to add color and a nutritional boost. Cook them slightly before adding to the casserole.
Swap bacon for breakfast sausage, ham, or even a vegetarian sausage option to mix up the flavors if you prefer.
Try a mix of cheeses, like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or pepper jack for a mild kick.
Use whole-grain or sourdough bread cubes to add extra fiber and a heartier texture.
Serve alongside coffee, juice, and pastries to make it a standout at any brunch gathering.
Additional Serving Suggestions
Top with freshly chopped green onions, parsley, or cilantro for a fresh, colorful touch. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on the side.
Balance the casserole’s rich flavors with a fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfait on the side for a complete breakfast.