There’s something magical about gathering friends and family for a festive Christmas brunch, and this delightful spread is the perfect centerpiece! I just love the way the warm aromas of baked eggs and savory sausage fill the house, making it feel like the holidays have truly arrived. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for those joyful family get-togethers. Imagine a hearty slice, bursting with gooey cheese and colorful veggies, that everyone can enjoy together. Trust me, this Christmas brunch recipe will become a cherished tradition in your home!
Ingredients List
- 6 eggs – Large and fresh, they’ll create a fluffy base for our dish.
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for that creamy texture, but you can use any milk you have on hand.
- 2 cups shredded cheese – I love a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melt and flavor.
- 1 cup diced bell peppers – Use a colorful mix! Red, green, and yellow add not just flavor but a festive look.
- 1 cup diced onions – Sweet onions are my go-to for a nice balance of flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage – Go for a good quality sausage, whether links or bulk, for that hearty, savory taste.
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed – A day-old loaf works wonders here; it soaks up all the deliciousness without getting mushy.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Don’t skip this! It enhances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Freshly cracked pepper adds a nice little kick.
- Fresh parsley for garnish – A sprinkle of green on top not only looks lovely but adds a fresh flavor right before serving.
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your dish cooks evenly from the get-go. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a gooey center when you’re expecting a beautifully baked brunch dish!
Cook the Sausage
Next up, let’s cook the sausage. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add your breakfast sausage. I usually break it up with a spatula as it cooks, stirring occasionally. You’ll want it browned and cooked through, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the aroma will have everyone wandering into the kitchen, so don’t let it burn!
Prepare the Egg Mixture
While the sausage is doing its thing, grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and frothy. You want to incorporate some air here for fluffiness! Once it’s well mixed, it’s time to add in the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, and onions. Give it a good stir to combine everything evenly.
Combine Ingredients
Now, it’s time to fold in the cubed bread. I like to gently mix it in until every piece is coated with that delicious egg mixture. The bread should soak up all those yummy flavors but still hold its shape. You’re looking for a slightly thick, chunky mixture that’s ready to be baked!
Bake the Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no jiggles allowed! Once it’s out, let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Then, dive in and enjoy your festive Christmas brunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy holiday mornings when you want to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
- Flavor Explosion: With the delightful combination of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and colorful veggies, every bite is a burst of flavor that will have everyone raving!
- Feeds a Crowd: This dish is designed to serve 8, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings and brunch parties. You’ll have enough to go around, with some leftover for later!
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or cheeses! This recipe is a blank canvas, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next morning. Talk about a stress-free Christmas brunch!
- Festive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the bell peppers and the fresh parsley garnish make this dish as beautiful as it is delicious—perfect for the holiday table!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Christmas brunch dish turns out absolutely fabulous, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the sausage cooking process; browning it properly adds so much depth of flavor. If you want to kick things up a notch, try using flavored sausage, like spicy or herb-infused, for a little extra zing!
Also, consider mixing up your cheese game! A blend of cheddar and pepper jack can add a delightful kick, or you could even go for cream cheese for a rich, creamy texture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy twist. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility!
When it comes to the bread, I recommend using a hearty loaf, like sourdough or challah, for added flavor and texture. And if you’re planning to prep ahead, just be mindful to not let the bread soak too long in the egg mixture if you want it to maintain some structure. Aim for about 30 minutes before baking if you’re making it the night before.
Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time! Every oven is a little different, so check for that beautiful golden color and firm center. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a stunning brunch dish that will impress everyone at your holiday table!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers fresh! After your festive Christmas brunch, if you find yourself with any extra servings, simply let the dish cool completely. Once it’s cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely sealed to prevent any odors from your fridge sneaking in!
When it comes time to reheat, I recommend using the oven to maintain that lovely texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the portion you want to reheat on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You’ll want to check to make sure it’s hot in the center, so use a knife or toothpick to poke it and see if it’s steaming!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works in a pinch. Just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking. But be careful—microwaving can sometimes make it a bit rubbery, so I usually prefer the oven method for the best results. Enjoy every last bite of your scrumptious Christmas brunch!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to enjoying a festive Christmas brunch, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one slice of this delightful dish:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Keep in mind that these values are typical estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with a hearty dish like this, you’re sure to fuel up for a day full of holiday cheer! Enjoy every bite without a worry!
FAQ Section
Can I make this dish ahead of time for my Christmas brunch?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply pour it into your greased baking dish and pop it in the oven. It’s a great way to save time during the busy holiday mornings!
What can I substitute for breakfast sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist! Just make sure to season well to keep that flavor punch!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible. You could use pepper jack for a spicy kick, or even a creamy brie for a rich flavor. Mix and match according to your taste—just remember to keep it melty!
How do I know when the dish is done baking?
You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no jiggles allowed! A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven times can vary!
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or even some diced tomatoes. Just chop them finely and sauté them a bit first to release excess moisture, so the dish doesn’t become soggy.
Christmas Brunch: 5 Magical Flavors to Delight Everyone
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delightful spread for a festive Christmas brunch.
Ingredients
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced onions
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage, cheese, bell peppers, and onions to the egg mixture.
- Fold in the cubed bread until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and set.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Can be prepared a day in advance and baked in the morning.
- Serve with fruit and pastries for a complete brunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: christmas brunch, festive brunch, holiday breakfast
