The holidays are all about family, and nothing brings us together like a hearty breakfast. I remember one Christmas morning when my son, Jake, woke up at the crack of dawn, excited to dive into our Christmas breakfast casserole. This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a delightful way to kick off your holiday morning, combining all the flavors of a festive feast into one easy dish. It’s one of those easy holiday breakfast ideas that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
- You can prepare it the night before, saving you time on Christmas morning.
- It’s packed with delicious flavors that even picky eaters will enjoy.
- This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd, making it the ultimate Christmas breakfast.
Pure Comfort
There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of a warm breakfast casserole on Christmas morning. This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace, filling your home with the scent of eggs, cheese, and savory goodness. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Every bite brings back memories of laughter and joy, making it a cherished holiday tradition.
What You Need
- 1 1 lb breakfast sausage, crumbled – You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Shallots work well as a substitute.
- 1 1 red bell pepper, diced – Feel free to use green or yellow bell peppers.
- 6 6 large eggs – Egg whites can be used for a healthier version.
- 2 2 cups milk – Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 4 4 cups cubed bread (stale or fresh) – Any bread works, but sourdough adds a nice flavor.
- 2 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Feel free to mix in your favorite cheese.
- 1 1 tsp garlic powder – Fresh minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
- 1 1 tsp salt – Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 1/2 tsp black pepper – Add more for extra spice.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 45 minutes | Total: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, prepare it the night before.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. The warmth will set the stage for a cozy breakfast.
- In a large skillet, brown the crumbled sausage over medium heat. Let it cook until it’s golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the veggies are soft and the onion is translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture should be smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the cubed bread and the sausage mixture into the egg mixture. Make sure everything is well combined and the bread is soaked.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, and then pour the entire mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. The smell will be irresistible!
- Serve warm and watch your family dig in with smiles on their faces. Enjoy every magical bite!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Make It Perfect
- Use stale bread for a better texture; it absorbs the egg mixture nicely.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture.
- Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Mix It Up
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist.
- Mix in some spinach and feta for a Mediterranean flair.
- Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with fresh fruit salad for a refreshing side.
- Pair with warm pastries or muffins for a festive spread.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee to complete the holiday morning.
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FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
What can I substitute for the sausage?
You can use turkey sausage or even skip the meat for a vegetarian option.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is truly a festive treat that brings everyone together. With Martha Stewart's touch, it’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family and joy. So, gather your loved ones, whip up this easy holiday breakfast idea, and enjoy a magical Christmas morning!
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, brown the crumbled sausage over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the veggies are soft and the onion is translucent, around 3-4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Stir in the cubed bread and the sausage mixture into the egg mixture until combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, and pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.