Wake Up to Breakfast — Comfort Food Feast

In the early morning hours, there’s nothing better than cracking an egg into a sizzling hot pan. Unless, that is, breakfast is fixed before you even throw off the covers. Whether you’re looking for a prework meal that beats cereal or a lazy Sunday-morning brunch, these make-ahead breakfast recipes are comforting, easy and perfect for any kind of frosty morning. All you need is some foresight — and maybe a good casserole dish.

Loaded with flavor-packed ingredients like goat cheese, basil and sun-dried tomatoes, Giada’s Italian Sausage and Egg Bake will comfort you to your core without putting you back to sleep.

Jamie Deen’s Breakfast Bake opts for hot Italian turkey sausage instead, and leftovers can be reheated for a stellar future breakfast.

Food Network Kitchens Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Whipped Cream and Strawber

Food Network Kitchens Blueberry French Toast Casserole

Photo by: Matt Armendariz ©2012, Television Food Network, GP. All Rights Reserved

Matt Armendariz, 2012, Television Food Network, GP. All Rights Reserved

Even at the start of the day, some like it sweet. And since French toast generally gets better the longer it soaks, it works as the perfect make-ahead casserole. Do more than add maple syrup with creations like Blueberry French Toast Casserole with Whipped Cream and Strawberries, a decadent recipe best made with day-old challah bread.

Coconut French Toast Casserole
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Or look to a Coconut-Almond French Toast Casserole that’s crunchy on the top but creamy and fluffy on the inside.

With raisins, brown sugar and a hint of rosemary, Alton’s Overnight Monkey Bread melds together for hours on end. Just stick it in the oven when the alarm goes off for a rich morning meal.

Photo by: Brian Kennedy ©2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Brian Kennedy, 2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Need a no-fuss brunch dish fit for a crowd? Make this loaded Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole before anyone arrives so you can spend more time with your guests later — and less time cracking eggs in the kitchen.

Your favorite breakfast side just became the prime make-ahead dish. This vegetarian Hash-Brown Potato Casserole comes with tender potatoes, all bound by creamy cheesy.

And for an early morning kick, we give you an eggy Spicy Strata. A member of the same family as both quiche and frittata, this breakfast casserole comes stacked with layers — or strata — of pickled jalapenos, Jack cheese and more.

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