Description
This Cheese & Crab Brunch Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and luxurious dish that’s perfect for special occasions, holiday brunches, or a weekend breakfast treat. With layers of buttery English muffins, delicate lump crabmeat, and three types of cheese, this rich and satisfying casserole is sure to impress. Make it ahead of time for an easy, stress-free brunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 6 English muffins (split)
- 8 ounces lump crabmeat (drained)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 12 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half cream
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 green onions (chopped)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet red pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped sweet yellow pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the English Muffins : Spread Dijon mustard on each half of the split English muffins. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Crab and Lemon Flavor : In a small bowl, combine the drained crabmeat, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Distribute this mixture evenly over the English muffin layer in the baking dish.
- Add Cheese Layers : Sprinkle the shredded white cheddar cheese evenly over the crab layer.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, mayonnaise, salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the Egg Mixture and Add Toppings : Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ingredients in the baking dish. Then, sprinkle the Swiss cheese and Parmesan cheese on top, followed by the chopped green onions, red pepper, and yellow pepper.
- Bake the Casserole : Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden and bubbly. You can test doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve : Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Slice and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
- Cheese Variations: Swap Gruyère, Havarti, or Fontina for a unique twist.
- Seafood Alternatives: Try lobster, shrimp, or smoked salmon instead of crab.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American