There’s something truly magical about waking up on Christmas morning to the aroma of a hearty breakfast baking in the oven. The anticipation of unwrapping gifts and spending quality time with loved ones is amplified by the comforting warmth of a breakfast casserole that’s been prepared in advance. Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a cherished family tradition in many households, combining savory sausage, creamy eggs, and gooey cheese in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.
This recipe was passed down to me by my grandmother, who always knew how to make holiday mornings special. I remember waking up to the delightful scent of this casserole baking, mingling with the crisp winter air and the faint sound of holiday music. It was always a joy to gather around the table and enjoy a meal that was both comforting and festive. This Christmas Breakfast Casserole captures those nostalgic feelings and makes it easy to bring a touch of holiday magic to your own home.
The beauty of this casserole is not only in its rich flavors but also in its convenience. By preparing it the night before, you free up your morning to enjoy the holiday festivities rather than spending it in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of planning, you can create a breakfast that will have everyone raving.
Here’s how you can make this scrumptious Christmas Breakfast Casserole.
Ingredients
1 pound ground sausage
1 teaspoon mustard powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
4 large eggs, beaten
2 cups whole milk
6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
1 cup mild Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage
Cook the Sausage: Start by crumbling 1 pound of ground sausage into a medium skillet. Place the skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is evenly browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes. The sausage should be fully cooked with no pink remaining.
Drain Excess Fat: Once the sausage is cooked, carefully drain the excess fat from the skillet. You can do this by tilting the skillet slightly and using a spoon to remove the fat or by draining it into a paper towel-lined bowl. It’s important to remove the excess fat to ensure that your casserole isn’t greasy.
2. Mix the Egg Mixture
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large beaten eggs, 2 cups of whole milk, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. The mustard powder adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor to the casserole, complementing the sausage and cheese perfectly.
Stir in Sausage and Bread: Add the cooked sausage to the egg mixture. Next, add 6 slices of white bread that have been toasted and cut into cubes. The toasted bread cubes help to absorb the egg mixture and create a hearty texture. Stir gently to coat the bread and sausage evenly with the egg mixture.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded mild Cheddar cheese. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously creamy and gooey texture throughout the casserole.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking. You can use non-stick cooking spray or lightly brush the dish with butter or oil.
Pour Mixture into Dish: Pour the sausage, bread, and egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure that it bakes uniformly.
Cover and Chill: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight. Chilling the casserole allows the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish.
4. Bake the Casserole
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Bake Covered: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and uncover it. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes. The casserole should start to set and turn golden brown on top.
Reduce Temperature: After the initial baking time, uncover the casserole and reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C). Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. This step ensures that the casserole cooks through evenly and that the center is fully set.
Check for Doneness: To test if the casserole is done, insert a knife or toothpick into the center. It should come out clean, without any wet egg mixture sticking to it.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before cutting. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
Slice and Serve: Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad for a complete holiday breakfast.
Variations and Substitutions
Sausage Alternatives: You can use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider substituting the sausage with a meat alternative like soy sausage or extra vegetables.
Bread Choices: While white bread works well, you can use whole wheat bread or even croissants for a richer flavor and texture. Just ensure that whatever bread you use is toasted to help it hold its shape and absorb the egg mixture.
Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss. Each will add its unique flavor and melt differently.
Add-Ins: Customize the casserole with additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions. Adding these vegetables can enhance the flavor and make the dish even more satisfying.
Summary
Christmas Breakfast Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a tradition that brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. Its ease of preparation, combined with the hearty and comforting flavors, makes it a perfect choice for busy holiday mornings. By preparing it the night before, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast without any morning stress, allowing you to focus on making memories with your loved ones. This casserole’s ability to be customized with various ingredients and substitutions ensures that it can be tailored to suit any taste, making it a versatile and beloved holiday recipe.
