There’s something incredibly comforting about a big batch breakfast that’s easy to make and feeds a crowd. This Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe is my go-to for busy mornings when I want something hearty, cheesy, and totally hands-off once it’s in the oven. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, which makes it even better.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I’ve made this sheet pan egg bake at least a dozen times for everything from weekend brunches to holiday breakfasts, and it never disappoints. It’s easy, forgiving, and downright delicious every single time.
- Big Batch Friendly: Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead without any fuss.
- Customizable Mix-Ins: Whether you're veggie-forward or love a meaty bite, it’s easy to tailor.
- Hands-Off Baking: Once it’s in the oven, you can relax or focus on other breakfast dishes.
- Melty Cheddar Goodness: The sharp cheddar adds just the right amount of cheesy flavor that everyone raves about.
Ingredients & Why They Work
All the ingredients here combine to create a fluffy, cheesy, and satisfying egg bake that’s easy to slice and serve. Here’s why each one matters, plus a little heads-up on what to look for at the store.
- Eggs: The star of the show; fresh large eggs give you the best texture and flavor.
- Half and half: Adds creaminess so the eggs bake up tender, but not rubbery.
- Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning that brings out the natural flavors—adjust salt based on your mix-ins.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp or medium cheddar melts beautifully and lends a rich, tangy flavor.
- Mix-ins (optional): Think sautéed veggies or cooked meats—these add texture, flavor, and personality to the bake.
Make It Your Way
One of the best parts of this Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe is how you can make it truly yours. I love switching up the veggies or adding whatever cheese I have on hand to keep it exciting.
- Vegetarian version: I often toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and roasted red peppers to keep the bake colorful and fresh.
- Meaty twist: Crispy bacon or diced ham work wonders here—you’ll get a smoky, savory punch.
- Cheese blend: Mixing in mozzarella or Swiss with cheddar makes it extra melty and rich.
- Spicy kick: Add paprika, cayenne, or chili flakes if you want to wake up your taste buds.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Whisk It All Together
Start by cracking 18 large eggs into a big mixing bowl. I like to whisk the yolks and whites together until well blended—that way, the texture is uniform and fluffy. Then, stir in ¾ cup of half and half, salt, and pepper. This combo gives you creamy eggs without feeling too heavy.
Step 2: Cheese & Mix-In Time
Next, fold in about 1 to 1 ½ cups of grated cheddar cheese—sharp cheddar has my heart, but feel free to experiment. If you’re adding mix-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed spinach, or tomatoes, stir those in now. If you prefer, sprinkle cheese on top instead for a golden, melty crust.
Step 3: Prep the Pan & Pour
Spray a large rimmed baking sheet (about 18 by 13 inches) generously with non-stick cooking spray—this helps the egg bake release easily. Pour your egg mixture into the pan and gently spread it out evenly. Here’s a tip: do this on your countertop close to the oven to avoid spills when transferring.
Step 4: Bake Until Just Set
Bake in a 325°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the eggs are just set in the center. You’re looking for a little jiggle, not a liquid puddle. This slow bake keeps the eggs soft and tender without drying out.
Top Tip
Over the years, I’ve learned a few things that make this sheet pan egg bake an absolute winner every time. Here’s what I’ve found really helps with consistency and flavor.
- Use a rimmed baking sheet: It keeps the eggs from spilling over, and gives you nice even cooking.
- Don’t overbake: Pull it out while the center still has a slight jiggle—it will finish cooking with residual heat and avoid dryness.
- Mix-ins at room temp: If you’re adding cooked meats or veggies, let them cool before stirring in to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely.
- Cheese is key: Sharp cheddar delivers the flavor punch; I never skip it since it melts beautifully and keeps the bake luscious.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle chopped fresh chives or parsley on top after baking—it adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the whole dish. A dash of hot sauce on the side never hurts either.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs perfectly with crispy breakfast potatoes or a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness. On busy mornings, I serve it alongside toasted artisan bread and seasonal berries and everyone digs right in.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve baked this in cupcake tins for individual servings, then topped each with a little dollop of sour cream and smoked paprika for a fancy brunch feel. Makes for a fun, grab-and-go option your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually slice the leftover egg bake into squares, let them cool completely, and store in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 4 days and tastes great cold or reheated.
Freezing
Freezing works surprisingly well! I wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer bag. They thaw quickly overnight in the fridge and reheat perfectly for a quick breakfast fix.
Reheating
To keep the edges from getting too tough, I reheat leftovers gently in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the top. Or better yet, pop them in a toaster oven for 5–7 minutes until warmed through with a slightly crisp edge.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! You can mix everything the night before and store it covered in the fridge. Pour it into the pan and bake in the morning—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s cold from the fridge.
Baking low and slow at 325°F and pulling the bake out while the center still jiggles helps keep the eggs tender. Avoid overbaking since eggs carry residual heat well.
Yes, you can substitute milk for half and half to cut calories. Just know the bake might be slightly less creamy but will still be delicious.
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, cooked bacon, ham, sausage, and different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss are all fantastic choices. Fresh herbs and seasonings like parsley, chives, or paprika enhance flavor too.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s easy, adaptable, and such a crowd-pleaser. Honestly, it’s a relief to have a reliable breakfast that looks impressive but demands minimal effort. Give it a try—I’m confident it’ll win a regular spot at your table, too!
Print
Sheet Pan Egg Bake with Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A simple and versatile sheet pan eggs recipe that is perfect for making a large batch of baked eggs with cheese and optional mix-ins like vegetables and meats. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a protein-packed snack, this recipe is easy to prepare and bake all at once.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture
- 18 large eggs
- ¾ cup half and half
- 1 ½ teaspoon salt*
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups grated cheddar cheese (sharp or medium)
Optional Mix-Ins
- 2 to 3 cups mix-ins such as sautéed vegetables (mushrooms, red bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, asparagus, red onion, green onion, spinach, fresh tomatoes)
- Cooked meats like 12 to 16 oz bacon, ham, pork sausage or chorizo
- Additional cheeses like gruyere, Monterey jack, Swiss, mozzarella, fontina, gouda, or parmesan
- Seasonings such as parsley, chives, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking of the eggs.
- Mix Eggs and Dairy: Crack the 18 eggs into a large mixing bowl. Break the yolks with a whisk and whisk together thoroughly. Add half and half, salt, and black pepper, and mix well to combine.
- Add Cheese and Mix-Ins: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and any optional mix-ins you like, or alternatively, you can sprinkle the cheese over the top after pouring the eggs into the pan.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Spray a rimmed 18 by 13 by 1-inch baking sheet very well with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture into the prepared baking sheet carefully. It is helpful to do this near your oven to avoid spills while transferring.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake until the eggs are just barely cooked through in the center, about 25 minutes.
Notes
- Adjust salt according to taste, especially if adding salty mix-ins like bacon or ham.
- Nutrition estimates exclude mix-ins other than 1 cup cheddar cheese as these will vary.
- Optional mix-ins include sautéed vegetables, cooked meats, various cheeses, and additional seasonings for extra flavor.
- To prevent sogginess, make sure vegetables like spinach are steamed and dabbed dry before adding.
- Using a rimmed baking sheet helps contain the liquid eggs during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 185 mg
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