Ah, Christmas morning! There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked goodies and the excitement of gift-giving. One of my absolute favorite traditions is whipping up this *Christmas casserole breakfast*. It’s a festive dish that brings everyone together around the table, and it’s so easy to prepare! I remember the first time I made it; my family couldn’t believe how delicious it was! The combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and gooey cheese all baked together creates a cozy, warm dish that feels just like home. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, which means more time for coffee and holiday cheer! Trust me, this casserole will become a staple in your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful *Christmas casserole breakfast*. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making it flavorful and satisfying. Let’s gather the goodies!
- 6 slices of bread, cubed – I love using a hearty white or whole grain bread for added texture.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar brings a nice sharpness; feel free to use mild if you prefer.
- 1 cup of cooked sausage, crumbled – Breakfast sausage works like a charm, but turkey sausage is a great lighter option!
- 8 eggs – Fresh eggs add the fluffiness that makes this casserole truly delightful.
- 2 cups of milk – Whole milk gives it richness, but you can use your favorite dairy or non-dairy milk.
- 1 teaspoon of salt – Just enough to enhance all those delicious flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper – A little kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder – This adds a lovely depth; trust me, it’s a game changer!
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder – For that warm, savory flavor that blends beautifully.
How to Prepare Christmas Casserole Breakfast
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with butter or cooking spray. This will help ensure your casserole slides out easily once it’s baked—nobody wants a sticking disaster on Christmas morning!
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This forms a cozy base for all those delicious toppings. Next, sprinkle the crumbled sausage over the bread, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. I like to make sure every little bread cube is covered with sausage and cheese—trust me, it makes each bite heavenly! You want that perfect blend of flavors, so take your time layering them just right.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until it’s all combined and nice and frothy. This mixture is what brings everything together, so make sure it’s well-blended. I love watching those bubbles form; it means you’re on the right track to fluffy goodness!
Step 4: Combine and Refrigerate
Now, pour that egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. Take a moment to make sure everything is nicely soaked—this is what gives the casserole its delicious texture. Once you’ve done that, cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you’re prepping ahead. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and uncover it. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until it’s golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are crispy and the center is set—just give it a little shake to check for any jiggle. The smell will be absolutely irresistible, and your kitchen will feel like a cozy holiday haven!
Tips for Success
To make your *Christmas casserole breakfast* even more delightful, here are some handy tips to keep in mind:
- Use stale bread: If you have leftover bread sitting around, it’s perfect! Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better.
- Customize your cheese: Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist!
- Veggie boost: Sneak in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Don’t skip the chilling: Letting it sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld, making every bite more delicious!
- Check for doneness: If you’re unsure, a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are countless ways to customize your *Christmas casserole breakfast*! Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
- Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for a unique flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Try substituting the sausage with diced ham or crispy bacon for a different twist!
- Veggie Delight: Add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious boost.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the taste, or add a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Sweet Touch: For a sweeter version, consider adding some diced apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a holiday flair.
These variations not only keep things interesting but also let you cater to everyone’s tastes at the table!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into this delicious *Christmas casserole breakfast*, it’s good to know what you’re getting in each serving! Just remember, nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are approximate.
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g
Enjoy this hearty breakfast knowing it’s packed with flavor and a good amount of protein to kickstart your festive day!
FAQ Section
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend prepping it the night before. Just assemble everything, cover it, and refrigerate. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully while you sleep!
What type of bread works best?
I love using hearty white or whole grain bread, but you can also use sourdough or challah for a sweeter touch. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the egg mixture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cool the casserole completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months—perfect for a quick breakfast any time!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Your casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the center isn’t jiggly. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when it’s ready!
Can I add other ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies, different types of cheese, or even swap out the sausage for bacon or ham. The possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps, making your Christmas morning stress-free.
- Make-Ahead Delight: Prep it the night before so you can enjoy time with family instead of cooking!
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of cheesy goodness, savory sausage, and fluffy eggs is a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt it with your favorite ingredients to please everyone at the table.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 8 hearty servings, it’s ideal for family gatherings and holiday brunches.
Christmas Casserole Breakfast: 8 Ways to Celebrate Joyfully
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive casserole perfect for Christmas morning.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of cooked sausage, crumbled
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle the sausage and cheese over the bread.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Can be prepared the night before.
- Use different types of cheese for variation.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: christmas casserole breakfast
