This festive Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a deliciously savory dish perfect for your holiday morning. Made with a rich combination of eggs, cheese, sausage, and seasonal vegetables, it’s easy to prepare the night before and bake in the morning for a hassle-free holiday breakfast. The casserole is hearty, filling, and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for Christmas brunch or a family gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 12 large eggs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 4 cups cubed bread (such as French or sourdough)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sausage: In a large skillet, cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Remove any excess grease and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, and any optional vegetables (such as bell peppers or onions). Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, pressing the bread down slightly to soak up the liquid. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Chill overnight (optional): For best results, cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld. If you prefer to bake it immediately, proceed to step 5.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. If the casserole starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your festive Christmas breakfast!
This casserole can be customized with your favorite ingredients like cooked bacon, spinach, or mushrooms. It’s a great make-ahead dish that will make your holiday morning a little easier!