This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a cozy and tasty way to start your holiday morning! It’s packed with eggs, cheese, sausage, and bread, making it super filling.
It’s so easy to prepare ahead of time, which means more time for presents and less time in the kitchen! I love serving it warm, right out of the oven. Perfect for sharing with family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Breakfast Sausage: This adds a wonderful flavor. If you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, ground turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage works well as a substitute.
Cubed Bread: French bread is my go-to choice for this recipe. However, you can also use whole wheat bread, sourdough, or any leftover bread you have. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up when soaked with the egg mixture!
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for fluffiness. If you need to avoid eggs, a mixture of silken tofu and a little nutritional yeast can create a similar texture.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its flavor, you can mix it up! Monterey Jack or even a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and provolone can add a unique twist.
Red Bell Pepper: This brings a nice pop of color and sweetness. Feel free to substitute with other bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Well?
A key concern with casseroles is making sure they set properly. The egg mixture needs to soak into the bread mix well. Here are my tips:
- After pouring the egg mixture, gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the eggs.
- Cover the casserole with foil while baking for the first part to lock in moisture, then uncover to let it brown on top.
- Let the casserole sit after baking for a few minutes. This will help it firm up and make serving easier.
With these simple steps and substitution options, your Christmas Breakfast Casserole will be a hit at your holiday gathering!
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 6 cups cubed bread (such as French bread or Texas toast)
- 10 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Butter or cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This wonderful casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 50-60 minutes to bake. It’s a great dish to prepare before the festivities start, allowing you to spend quality time with family and friends while breakfast is baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your baking dish by greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread Base
Evenly spread the cubed bread across the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. The bread will act as a delightful base that soaks up the egg mixture beautifully.
3. Add the Sausage
Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage evenly over the bread cubes. This savory layer adds fantastic flavor and helps make the casserole filling.
4. Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder. Whisk everything together until well combined. This mixture is what brings everything together!
5. Combine Everything
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage in the casserole dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread to help it soak up the egg mixture.
6. Top with Delicious Extras
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
7. Bake the Casserole
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 minutes to allow it to set. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is a nice golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is finished baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s perfect to enjoy warm, and your family will love this festive breakfast to kick off Christmas morning!
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake it as directed, though you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Additional veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or even diced tomatoes can enhance the flavor. You can also add different types of cheese or even some cooked bacon or ham for extra protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! Before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
