Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Introduction
Holiday mornings feel extra special when a warm and comforting dish comes out of the oven. A Christmas breakfast casserole is the kind of recipe that brings family together around the table before the celebrations begin. Its hearty layers of eggs, bread, cheese, and sausage create a rich and filling meal that keeps everyone energized for a busy day. The best part about this casserole is that it can be prepared the night before, making the morning stress free and enjoyable. With the aroma of baked goodness filling the kitchen, it sets the perfect festive tone for Christmas morning.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast sausage | 1 pound | 320 |
| Large eggs | 10 | 700 |
| Whole milk | 2 cups | 300 |
| White bread, cubed | 6 slices | 420 |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 2 cups | 640 |
| Green bell pepper, chopped | 1 | 25 |
| Red bell pepper, chopped | 1 | 25 |
| Onion, diced | 1 small | 40 |
| Salt | 1 tsp | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 0 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the sausage in a skillet until browned and crumbly.
Step 2: Add chopped onions and peppers to the skillet and sauté lightly.
Step 3: Grease a large baking dish and layer cubed bread evenly.
Step 4: Spread the cooked sausage and vegetables over the bread.
Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top.
Step 6: Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
Step 7: Pour the egg mixture over the casserole layers.
Step 8: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight if desired.
Step 9: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit in the morning.
Step 10: Bake for 45 minutes until golden and set in the center.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
A Christmas breakfast casserole offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust it to your taste. Try swapping cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of cheeses for a creamier texture. For a lighter version, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of traditional pork. Adding spinach or mushrooms introduces more vegetables and enhances the flavors while keeping the dish wholesome. Those who prefer a little spice can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For families with different tastes, you can prepare half the casserole with extra vegetables and leave the other half classic.
Nutritional Information
This recipe provides a balanced combination of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, making it a filling meal. A single serving of this casserole contains approximately 380 to 420 calories depending on the cheese and sausage type used. It provides about 22 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. The vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, while the eggs and sausage add valuable protein to keep you satisfied.
Serving Suggestions
Christmas breakfast casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides that balance its richness. A fresh fruit salad with seasonal berries or citrus slices brings brightness to the table. Warm muffins or croissants complement the savory casserole and complete the holiday breakfast spread. Serving it with a side of hash browns or roasted potatoes creates a more indulgent feast. For beverages, a hot cup of coffee, cocoa, or spiced apple cider adds warmth and enhances the festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
Gathering loved ones on Christmas morning becomes even more memorable when a delicious casserole is part of the meal. The dish is simple to make ahead, feeds a group, and allows endless variations to suit different tastes. It is more than just a breakfast recipe, it becomes a tradition that adds comfort and joy to the holiday season. A warm serving of this casserole makes the day feel brighter and brings holiday spirit straight to the table.