There’s something truly magical about family breakfasts during Christmas morning, isn’t there? The scent of warm bread and savory sausage fills the air as everyone gathers around the table, ready to share laughter and create lasting memories. My *Christmas Morning Casserole* is the star of the show—it’s hearty, satisfying, and so easy to prepare! With layers of fluffy bread, cheesy goodness, and perfectly cooked sausage, it’s a one-dish wonder that brings everyone together. Plus, you can prepare it the night before to make your morning a breeze! Trust me, this casserole will have your loved ones asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds) before you can say, “Merry Christmas!”
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to whip up your delicious *Christmas Morning Casserole*! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 slices of bread, cubed: Choose your favorite bread—white, whole wheat, or even a nice crusty sourdough works beautifully. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized cubes for even baking!
- 1 cup of shredded cheese: I love using a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melty texture! Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices—pepper jack adds a nice kick!
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage: Go for your favorite brand, whether it’s spicy or mild. You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
- 6 large eggs: These will bind everything together and give your casserole a lovely fluffy texture. Fresh eggs are the best for flavor!
- 2 cups of milk: Whole milk is my go-to for richness, but you can use 2% or even a non-dairy milk if you prefer.
- 1 teaspoon of salt: This helps to enhance all the flavors in the casserole. Adjust to taste, especially if your sausage is on the salty side!
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a nice bite; you can always add more if you like it spicier.
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder: This gives a wonderful depth of flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder: Like garlic powder, this brings a nice savory note to the dish, complementing the sausage perfectly!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a warm and comforting breakfast that your family will love!
How to Prepare *Christmas Morning Casserole*
Alright, let’s dive into the joyful process of preparing this mouthwatering *Christmas Morning Casserole*! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a hearty breakfast that will have everyone smiling.
Preheat and Cook
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures even cooking throughout the casserole. While the oven is warming up, grab a skillet and cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until it’s nice and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. This not only helps with even cooking but also distributes that delicious flavor throughout your casserole!
Mix the Ingredients
Now, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything’s combined and fluffy—about a minute should do it! This mixture is what binds all the tasty ingredients together, so take your time to get it nice and smooth. You want to make sure the seasonings are well incorporated to give your casserole that pop of flavor!
Layer the Casserole
Next up, it’s time to layer! Grease your baking dish (a 9×13 inch is perfect) so nothing sticks. Start by spreading the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the cooked sausage and shredded cheese over the bread. Make sure everything is distributed evenly—this is key to getting a bite of all the yummy ingredients in every slice!
Bake and Serve
Pour your egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring it seeps through the bread. Pop it in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set—no jiggle here! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, this short wait is worth it; it helps everything hold together beautifully! Serve it warm, and watch the smiles spread across your family’s faces as they dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip this up in no time, leaving you plenty of moments to soak in the holiday spirit!
- Hearty Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and fluffy bread creates a comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
- Family-Friendly: Everyone—young and old—will love this casserole. It’s a warm hug in a dish that brings people together around the breakfast table!
- Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up the ingredients! Whether you want to swap the sausage for bacon or add in some veggies, this casserole can adapt to your family’s tastes!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy a stress-free breakfast while still keeping the festive vibe alive!
- Perfect for Leftovers: If there are any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), they reheat beautifully, making for a delicious brunch option the next day!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *Christmas Morning Casserole* turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Stale Bread Works Best: Using stale bread or day-old bread enhances the texture of your casserole. It absorbs the egg mixture better and prevents it from becoming soggy. If your bread is fresh, just leave it out for a few hours to dry out a bit before cubing!
- Don’t Skip the Sausage Browning: Browning your sausage not only adds flavor but also gives it a nice texture. Trust me, those crispy bits make all the difference! Just be sure to cook it thoroughly to avoid any undercooked pieces in the casserole.
- Mix Well: When whisking the egg and milk mixture, make sure you’re mixing until it’s fully combined and frothy. This ensures that every bite of your casserole is packed with flavor. If you notice any lumps, keep whisking until it’s nice and smooth!
- Even Layers are Key: Layering the ingredients evenly is crucial for consistent flavor and texture throughout the casserole. Take your time to spread everything out and ensure each slice has a good mix of bread, sausage, and cheese.
- Let it Sit: After baking, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set properly and makes slicing much easier! Plus, it’ll be just the right temperature for enjoying.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t hesitate to customize your casserole! Adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds a lovely color and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them first to reduce moisture!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of the *Christmas Morning Casserole*! Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize your *Christmas Morning Casserole*! Here are some delicious variations to inspire your creativity:
- Protein Switch-Up: Instead of breakfast sausage, try using crispy bacon or diced ham for a different flavor profile. You could even go meatless with a savory veggie sausage for a delicious vegetarian option!
- Veggie Delight: Add some colorful veggies to amp up the nutrition! Think sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Cheese Variations: Get creative with your cheese choices! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or go with a creamy gouda for a rich flavor. Mixing different cheeses can also add a wonderful depth to the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or even a sprinkle of thyme to elevate the flavor. They add a lovely freshness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. It’ll give your casserole a delightful little kick that wakes up the taste buds!
- Sweet Twist: For a sweet and savory combo, try adding some diced apples or pears and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This unexpected addition creates a cozy, comforting flavor that’s perfect for holiday mornings.
With these variations, you can make your *Christmas Morning Casserole* uniquely yours every year! So, don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorite combination. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some delicious *Christmas Morning Casserole* left over? No worries! Storing and reheating it is super simple, and I’ve got all the tips you need to keep that flavor and texture just right.
First, let the casserole cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—trust me, it won’t last long, but it’s great to have some on hand for those busy post-holiday mornings!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the casserole. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can pull out a piece anytime you’re craving a cozy breakfast. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply take the container or slices out of the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re reheating the entire casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed all the way through.
This way, you’ll have that warm, comforting feeling of a freshly baked casserole without all the work! Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share if you can (though I won’t blame you if you keep it all to yourself!).
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying delicious food like my *Christmas Morning Casserole*, it’s always good to be aware of the nutritional content! Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Here’s a typical breakdown per serving (1 slice):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 18g
These numbers give you a good idea of what to expect, but remember, everyone’s dietary needs are unique! Enjoy this hearty dish in moderation, and feel free to customize it to fit your family’s preferences. Happy cooking and nourishing your loved ones!
FAQs
Can I prepare the *Christmas Morning Casserole* the night before?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this casserole is that you can assemble it the night before. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. In the morning, pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a warm, delicious breakfast with minimal effort!
What type of bread works best for this casserole?
I recommend using a sturdy bread like sourdough, challah, or even a nice whole grain. Stale bread is ideal because it absorbs the egg mixture better without getting too soggy. If your bread is fresh, just let it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit before cubing it!
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! You can easily make a vegetarian version of this *Christmas Morning Casserole* by omitting the sausage and replacing it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You could even toss in some black beans for added protein!
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Your casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set—if you gently shake the dish, it shouldn’t jiggle excessively. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
What toppings can I add to enhance the flavor?
There are so many delicious toppings you can add! Fresh herbs like chives or parsley give a nice pop of color and flavor. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or serve it with salsa on the side for a spicy kick. And if you like a little sweetness, a dollop of applesauce can be a delightful contrast to the savory flavors!
Christmas Morning Casserole: 5 Tips for a Perfect Breakfast
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty casserole perfect for Christmas morning.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread, cubed
- 1 cup of shredded cheese
- 1 pound of breakfast sausage
- 6 large 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).
- Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Layer the bread cubes in a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage and cheese over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layers evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute sausage with bacon or ham.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- This can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: christmas morning casserole
