When mornings blur into a hectic scramble, this egg bake casserole with ground beef steps in like an old friend who knows exactly what you need. The aroma of sizzling onions and peppers mingles with the scent of browned ground beef, filling the kitchen with a cozy promise that breakfast is worth slowing down for. It’s that kind of dish you can almost taste before it’s even out of the oven—rich, cheesy, and satisfying in a way that feels like a small celebration amid the chaos.
I remember one morning when I was half-distracted by the buzzing phone and the lazy sun sneaking through the blinds. I wasn’t even sure I’d timed the bake perfectly, but that first bite—warm, gooey cheese, the smoky hint of paprika in the beef, and the tender eggs holding it all together—made the little kitchen chaos fade away. It’s the kind of comfort food that doesn’t ask for much attention but rewards you with plenty, even if your mind is a few steps ahead.
- It’s versatile enough to serve any time of day, but especially great for those rushed mornings when you need something filling and fuss-free.
- The combination of ground beef and eggs isn’t fancy, and that’s kind of the point—it’s straightforward and dependable.
- It makes enough to feed a crowd or to enjoy leftovers that reheat beautifully, though they might lose a bit of that fresh-from-the-oven charm.
- While it’s rich and hearty, the vegetables add a subtle brightness that keeps it from feeling too heavy.
And hey, if you’re worried about the cleanup or the timing, don’t be. This casserole mostly bakes itself once you get the beef mixture going, giving you a little breathing room to gather your thoughts or sneak in a quick scroll through your phone.
PrintEgg Bake Casserole with Ground Beef
A hearty and savory egg bake casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, eggs, cheese, and vegetables. Perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
8 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well and remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until fully combined.
Spread the cooked ground beef and vegetable mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the beef layer.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need any fancy gadgets here—just a good skillet and a baking dish to get the job done. This casserole pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some fresh fruit to balance out the richness. If you want to switch things up, I’ve sometimes swapped the cheddar for pepper jack to add a little kick, or tossed in some diced mushrooms with the peppers, though the texture can get a bit softer than I usually like. If you’re short on time, you can brown the beef mixture a day ahead and pop everything together in the morning.
FAQ: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, prepping the beef mixture a day before helps save time. Does it freeze well? Absolutely—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Is it spicy? Only if you add extra paprika or pepper jack cheese; otherwise, it’s mild and comforting.
Next time the morning feels like it’s moving too fast, remember this egg bake casserole with ground beef. It’s your quiet little victory at the start of the day.

