Christmas Breakfast Casserole: A Delightful Start to Your Holiday Morning

The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter, and of course, delicious food. Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the delightful aroma of a savory breakfast casserole baking in the oven. This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor, making it the perfect festive breakfast to start your day of celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Time-Saving: Prepare it the night before, so all you need to do is bake it in the morning.
• Flavorful: Packed with savory sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs.
• Simple Ingredients: Requires just a few common ingredients you likely already have at home.
• Versatile: Pair it with a fresh fruit salad, yogurt dip, or an orange juice smoothie for a complete breakfast spread.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• A skillet for cooking sausage
• A medium mixing bowl
• A whisk for beating eggs
• Foil for covering the dish

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork sausage (or maple sausage)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 eggs, beaten
• 1-1 1/2 cups half and half
• 6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

• Grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
• In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat.
• In a medium bowl, mix the salt, eggs, and half and half. Then, add the sausage, bread cubes, and cheese. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the covered casserole for 50-60 minutes.
• Reduce the heat to 325°F, uncover the casserole, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole has set.

Tips for Success

• Use day-old bread to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
• If using maple sausage, adjust the salt accordingly to balance the sweetness.
• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
• Swap cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and color.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is rich in protein from the eggs and sausage, providing a hearty start to your day. The cheese adds a good dose of calcium, while the bread provides carbohydrates for energy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Yes, substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage or add more vegetables.
• How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy a special morning with your loved ones. With its savory flavors and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Give it a try this Christmas and let us know how it turned out! Share your experiences and any creative twists you added in the comments below. Happy Holidays!