If you are searching for a soul-warming, hearty option to kick off your holiday festivities, this Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe is a must-try. Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of savory sausage mingled with melted cheese and fluffy eggs, all nestled within cozy cubes of bread. This dish is a perfect blend of textures and flavors that come together to satisfy every breakfast lover’s cravings, especially when shared with family and friends on a special morning. It’s simple to make yet packed full of heartiness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, bringing layers of flavor, texture, and color in a way that feels effortlessly festive. Whether it’s the savory punch from the sausage or the creamy, cheesy topping, every bite will feel like a warm holiday hug.
- 1 lb breakfast sausage: Brings a rich, savory depth and a little spice that complements the eggs perfectly.
- 6 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent, creating that luscious, custard-like texture throughout the casserole.
- 2 cups milk: Adds creaminess and lightness, ensuring the casserole is moist and tender.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness with a sharp, tangy bite.
- 3 cups cubed bread: Provides a comforting base, soaking up the egg mixture while maintaining a slight crispness.
- Salt and pepper: Essentials to season and bring balance to every flavor note in the casserole.
How to Make Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sausage
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s nice and ready when your casserole is assembled. Brown one pound of breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it’s cooked through and slightly crispy. Drain off any excess fat – this keeps the casserole from becoming greasy while preserving that wonderful sausage flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Base
In a greased baking dish, layer three cups of cubed bread evenly. Then sprinkle the hot, browned sausage over the bread, followed by two cups of shredded cheddar cheese. This layering helps distribute flavors evenly and creates charming pockets of melty cheese throughout the casserole.
Step 3: Mix the Custard and Pour
In a large bowl, whisk together six large eggs and two cups of milk until fully combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese, allowing the bread to soak up all the delicious custard.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Set
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The casserole is done when the egg mixture is fully set and the top is golden brown. Resist the urge to cut into it too soon—it will firm up beautifully as it cools just slightly, making serving a breeze.
How to Serve Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
To make this Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe even more festive, consider sprinkling fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or chives on top right after baking. They add a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
The richness of this casserole pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Fresh fruit or a bright citrus salad can provide a refreshing counterpoint as well, keeping the whole breakfast balanced and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini skillets for a cute, personalized touch. Alternatively, add a festive flair by topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for those who like a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When properly refrigerated, the flavors actually meld and deepen, making the next day’s breakfast just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
This Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results when reheating leftovers, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and keeps the texture tender rather than rubbery, just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese provides a sharp, classic flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder, gooey texture or pepper jack if you prefer a bit more spice.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the breakfast sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative that still packs plenty of savory flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it fresh the next morning for a convenient and delicious holiday breakfast.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Swap the regular bread cubes for gluten-free bread of your choice. Make sure your sausage and other ingredients are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe and tasty.
What sides go best with this breakfast casserole?
Fresh fruit, light salads, or crispy roasted potatoes all complement this rich and hearty casserole nicely, adding balance to your Christmas morning meal.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe truly brings a festive spirit to your holiday breakfast table. Easy to prepare, packed with familiar, comforting flavors, and perfect for feeding a crowd, it’s the kind of dish that promises smiles, full bellies, and warm memories. I can’t recommend it enough for your next holiday gathering or cozy weekend morning. Give it a try, and watch it become an instant family favorite!
Print
Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole with Eggs and Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole combines savory sausage, cheesy goodness, and hearty bread cubes baked to perfection. It’s an ideal make-ahead breakfast that feeds a crowd with minimal effort and brings festive warmth to your holiday morning table.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
Egg Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the casserole components.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the breakfast sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink inside. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness in the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, evenly layer the cubed bread first. Then sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the bread, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until fully combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered casserole ingredients, making sure it seeps through all the bread cubes. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool and set for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm for a festive breakfast treat.
Notes
- Use day-old or stale bread for best texture; fresh bread may result in a soggy casserole.
- You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it; bake it in the morning but add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or herbs for extra flavor.
- Low-fat milk or milk alternatives can be substituted but may slightly alter texture.
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