Ah, Christmas morning! There’s just something magical about waking up to the scent of pine and the sound of laughter, isn’t there? For me, it’s not just about the gifts or the decorations—it’s all about the food! And my absolute favorite part? The *Christmas breakfast casserole*. It’s a tradition in my family, bringing everyone together around the table, the warm, cheesy aroma filling the house like a cozy hug. I remember my grandmother used to whip it up every holiday, and now I carry on that legacy. It’s hearty, comforting, and so easy to make! Plus, it gives us more time to enjoy each other’s company instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Trust me, this dish will become a staple in your holiday celebrations, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a scrumptious *Christmas breakfast casserole*. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed – Use your favorite bread, whether it’s a hearty whole grain or a fluffy white loaf. Just make sure it’s day-old for the best texture!
- 12 eggs – Large eggs work best for this recipe, giving the casserole that rich, delicious base.
- 2 cups milk – Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can use any milk you prefer. Almond or oat milk can work too if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar is my go-to for its melty goodness, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or mozzarella!
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled – You can use pork sausage for a classic flavor, or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Vegetarian sausage works too!
- 1 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice kick!
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For that savory depth that makes everything taste amazing.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Another layer of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
How to Prepare Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Making this *Christmas breakfast casserole* is a breeze, and I promise it’ll fill your kitchen with the most delightful aromas. Let’s get cooking!
- Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and toasty when your casserole goes in.
- Whisk the egg mixture: In a large bowl, crack those 12 eggs and add in the 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Whisk it all together until it’s well combined and frothy—this is where the magic begins!
- Add the bread: Now, toss in your cubed bread and stir gently to make sure every piece gets coated in that creamy egg mixture.
- Incorporate the sausage and cheese: Fold in the cooked and crumbled sausage along with the 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix it just enough to combine, but be careful not to squish the bread too much—those little cubes should hold their shape!
- Transfer to baking dish: Grease a baking dish (I love using a 9×13 inch for this) and pour in your mixture, spreading it evenly. It should look all cozy in there!
- Bake to perfection: Pop it in the oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. If you gently shake the dish, it shouldn’t jiggle too much—just a little is okay!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. You’ll want to savor that first bite—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Breakfast Casserole
This *Christmas breakfast casserole* isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration on a plate! Here’s why it’s going to steal the spotlight at your holiday brunch:
- Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty dish baking while you enjoy coffee and holiday cheer.
- Comfort food at its finest: The combination of fluffy eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese wrapped in tender bread is pure bliss!
- Perfect for feeding a crowd: This casserole yields 8 generous servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or festive mornings with friends.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning—less stress and more time for joy!
- Customizable: Toss in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese—this dish can be tailored to suit everyone’s tastes!
- Leftovers are a treat: If you’re lucky enough to have any left, they make for a delicious breakfast or snack the next day!
Tips for Success with Your Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Want to make sure your *Christmas breakfast casserole* turns out absolutely perfect? I’ve got you covered with some tried-and-true tips that will elevate your dish to the next level!
- Stale bread is best: Using day-old bread is key! It soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without becoming mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, just leave fresh bread out for a few hours to dry out a bit.
- Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix in some creamy goat cheese or sharp Gruyère for a gourmet twist. Each cheese brings a unique flavor to the casserole!
- Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a little heat. Trust me, it adds a fun kick!
- Veggie lovers rejoice: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms to sneak in some veggies. Just make sure to cook them first to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it’ll be oh-so-deliciously cheesy!
- Make it your own: Feel free to substitute the sausage with cooked bacon or ham, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. This dish is super versatile!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone with your delicious *Christmas breakfast casserole*! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Christmas Breakfast Casserole
When it comes to enjoying a hearty *Christmas breakfast casserole*, it’s good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving. Remember, these figures are approximate, as ingredients can vary!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This casserole is a filling and satisfying way to start your day, packed with protein and comfort! Just remember, everything in moderation—so enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ About Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Got questions about making the perfect *Christmas breakfast casserole*? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you get ready to whip up this delicious dish:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this *Christmas breakfast casserole* is that you can prepare it the night before. Just assemble everything, cover it well, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed!
What can I substitute for the sausage?
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can swap the sausage for cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. The flavors will still shine through, and you can tailor the dish to fit different dietary needs!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The best way to check if your casserole is finished baking is to look for that lovely golden brown top. Gently shake the dish—if it jiggles just a little in the middle, it’s perfect! It’ll firm up as it cools, making it easier to slice.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, yes, yes! Feel free to add some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms to sneak in some veggies. Just make sure to cook them first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole!
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Let’s talk about how to keep your *Christmas breakfast casserole* fresh and tasty for those delightful leftovers! Trust me, you won’t want to let any of this goodness go to waste!
First off, once your casserole has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This is super important because it keeps the casserole from drying out or absorbing any funky fridge odors. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy it again!
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of options. For the best results, I recommend popping it back into the oven. Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with aluminum foil (to prevent it from drying out), and heat it for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. This way, it’ll stay nice and fluffy, just like the first time you made it!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just cut a slice (or two) and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it in 30-second intervals, checking to make sure it’s heated evenly. But be careful not to overdo it—no one likes rubbery eggs!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last bite of your *Christmas breakfast casserole* and keep that festive spirit alive a little longer!
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious *Christmas breakfast casserole*, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to create the ultimate festive breakfast spread! Trust me, these pairings will take your holiday brunch to the next level!
- Fresh fruit platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits like cranberries, oranges, and pomegranate seeds adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the casserole.
- Warm pastries: Flaky croissants or cinnamon rolls are perfect for indulging in that sweet morning vibe. Plus, they’re great for sharing!
- Maple syrup or honey: Drizzling a little maple syrup or honey over individual servings of the casserole can add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors.
- Coffee and hot cocoa: Brew up a pot of your favorite coffee or serve up some hot cocoa with whipped cream for a cozy beverage option that everyone will love.
- Breakfast cocktails: Consider whipping up some mimosas or a festive cranberry mimosa. The bubbly and citrusy notes are a lovely way to toast the holiday spirit!
- Yogurt parfaits: Layer some yogurt with granola and berries for a light, creamy contrast to the casserole. It’s a fantastic way to add some texture and flavor variety!
These serving suggestions will not only enhance your *Christmas breakfast casserole* but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your holiday gathering. Enjoy every bite and every moment with your loved ones!
Drucken
Christmas Breakfast Casserole: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Gesamtzeit: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Ertrag: 8 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Vegetarisch
Beschreibung
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for Christmas morning.
Zutaten
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 12 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Anweisungen
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
- Fold in the cooked sausage and cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set and golden brown.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish the night before and refrigerate it.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 50 minutes
- Kategorie: Breakfast
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 slice
- Kalorien: 350
- Zucker: 2g
- Natrium: 800mg
- Fett: 25g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 10g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 20g
- Faser: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterin: 200mg
Keywords: christmas breakfast casserole, holiday breakfast, breakfast bake
