Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Looking for the perfect Christmas morning dish? Try our easy and delicious Christmas Breakfast Casserole. Made with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs, this make-ahead breakfast bake is ideal for holiday gatherings. Prepare it the night before and simply bake on Christmas morning. Enjoy a stress-free and tasty breakfast with this simple recipe. Perfect for family and friends, this casserole will become a holiday favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Christmas Breakfast Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups whole milk
• 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
• 1 cup mild Cheddar cheese, shredded

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Christmas Breakfast Casserole

1. Cook the Sausage

Start by crumbling the sausage into a medium skillet. Cook over medium heat until the sausage is evenly browned. Once cooked, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the mustard powder, kosher salt, beaten eggs, and whole milk. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended. This mixture will give the casserole its rich and creamy texture.

3. Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked sausage, toasted bread cubes, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the egg mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the sausage and bread are evenly coated with the egg mixture. The bread cubes will absorb the flavors and become deliciously soft when baked.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the sausage, bread, and egg mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and ensures the bread absorbs the egg mixture.

5. Bake the Casserole

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the covered casserole in the oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. This initial baking time sets the structure of the casserole.

6. Final Bake

After the initial bake, uncover the casserole and reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. Serve warm and enjoy the savory goodness of this Christmas Breakfast Casserole. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, coffee, or a glass of orange juice.

Why This Recipe Works

Flavorful and Satisfying

The combination of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The mustard powder adds a subtle kick that enhances the overall taste, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its make-ahead convenience. Preparing the casserole the night before allows you to relax and enjoy Christmas morning with your loved ones. Simply bake and serve, making your holiday breakfast stress-free and enjoyable.

Customizable Options

This recipe is highly customizable. You can easily swap out the sausage for bacon or ham, or add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to suit your family’s preferences. The versatility of this dish makes it a staple for any holiday breakfast.

Tips for the Best Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Choosing the Right Bread

Using day-old or slightly stale bread is ideal for this recipe. It soaks up the egg mixture better than fresh bread, resulting in a more cohesive casserole. If you only have fresh bread, lightly toasting it will achieve a similar effect.

Cheese Variations

While mild Cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor profile to the casserole.

Adding Vegetables

For an added nutritional boost, consider incorporating vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add color and texture to the dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the sausage with bacon, ham, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.

2. What if I don’t have mustard powder?

You can substitute mustard powder with a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a similar flavor profile.

3. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach can enhance the flavor and add a nutritional boost.

4. How long can I refrigerate the casserole before baking?

You can refrigerate the assembled casserole for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly before freezing. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.