Festive Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipes

Christmas breakfast casserole is a delightful and convenient dish that brings warmth and joy to your holiday morning. This casserole combines savory ingredients like sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread into a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd, this make-ahead dish allows you to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that’s sure to become a holiday tradition.

Ingredients

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon, cooked and crumbled)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 6 cups cubed bread (French bread, croissants, or brioche work well)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Layer half of the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and shredded cheeses over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread, sausage, vegetables, and cheeses.
5. Add the Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers in the baking dish, pressing down slightly to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours.
6. Preheat the Oven: In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
7. Bake the Casserole: Uncover the baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the eggs are set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce if desired. Enjoy this festive and hearty dish with your loved ones!

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, this casserole is designed to be made ahead of time. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply bake as directed.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Absolutely! You can use cooked bacon, ham, or even a plant-based sausage alternative. Just make sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Christmas breakfast casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream? A: If you prefer not to use heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half or additional milk. The casserole will still be delicious, though slightly less rich.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the egg mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

This Christmas breakfast casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it a perfect addition to your holiday traditions. Enjoy!