Christmas mornings are incredibly special, filled with joy and laughter. One of my absolute favorite ways to celebrate this magical day is a delicious Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe. This dish is warm, all-in-one, and so simple to prepare. As the aromas waft through the house, everyone gathers around the table with eager smiles, anticipating the delightful flavors ahead.
I remember one Christmas when I first made this casserole. It was just after sunrise, and the excitement in the air made it a perfect morning. The family decorated the tree while I prepared this hearty dish. When everyone finally sat down, they were met with a bubbling casserole that was ready to be devoured. Little did I know this would become our holiday tradition.
The Perfect Holiday Morning Dish
A Christmas morning breakfast casserole brings everything together. With flavors of eggs, cheese, and meat, it really satisfies everyone. The beauty of this dish is that you can customize it to fit your family’s tastes. Whether you go with sausage, bacon, or even veggies, you can create a meal that everyone will love.
The best part? It can be put together the night before. You simply pop it in the oven in the morning. That leaves room for gift exchanges, family games, and just enjoying the holiday!
Ingredients for Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe
To make this casserole, you will need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will need to gather:
Basic Ingredients
- 10 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (or bacon)
- 10 slices of bread (cubed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Optional: chopped vegetables like peppers, onions, or spinach
This combination is a classic. Depending on your family preference, you can tweak the meats and cheeses. Don’t hesitate to add in some herbs, too, for that extra flavor!
How to Make Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Getting this casserole ready is quick and easy. Start by cooking the sausage or bacon in a large skillet. I usually prefer breakfast sausage for its savory flavor. After cooking, drain any excess fat and set it aside.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. Make sure to mix well until frothy. This step makes the eggs light and fluffy in the casserole.
Mixing It Up
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked meat, and shredded cheese. Pour the egg mixture over everything and gently fold it together. The bread will soak up the egg mixture, making it wonderfully flavorful.
If you like, you can add in any chopped vegetables at this stage. Spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms add great texture and color.
Make It Ahead of Time
One of the best parts about a Christmas morning casserole is how convenient it is. You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil in your baking dish. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while preheating the oven.
This way, you won’t be stressed about cooking in the morning. Just set it in the oven and relax!
Baking the Casserole
When the time comes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place your casserole covered with foil in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes to start.
After that, remove the foil to let the top get golden brown and bubbly. It usually takes another 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, you can insert a knife into the center. If it comes out clean, your casserole is ready!
Serving Suggestions
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. I find this allows it to set better, making it easier to slice. This dish can be served as is or with a side of fresh fruit.
You may also want to offer toppings like salsa, sour cream, or even hot sauce for an extra kick. Everyone enjoys personalizing their plate.
Leftovers and Storage
If you’re fortunate enough to have some leftovers, they reheat wonderfully! Store any uneaten casserole pieces in an airtight container in the fridge. You can enjoy them for breakfast or brunch in the days following.
Simply pop them in the microwave or reheat in the oven again. It makes for a perfect quick meal on busy mornings!
Variations of Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This Christmas morning breakfast casserole can be customized in countless ways. Do you prefer a sweet twist? Consider incorporating cinnamon and nutmeg into the egg mixture, or adding in some diced apples or raisins.
For a savory variety, how about using different cheeses like mozzarella or feta? A Mediterranean version with spinach and feta is delightful!
Special Traditions
Food has a way of bringing family together. As I reflect on past Christmas celebrations, this casserole stands out as a favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment of togetherness. Preparing it with loved ones builds excitement for the day.
Maybe you can share stories or film clips while cooking. This creates an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for years.
As Christmas approaches, I always get excited about this breakfast casserole. It captures the spirit of the holiday season with its warmth and flavor. Whether you’re sharing it with family or friends, it’s sure to be a hit.
So, embrace the joy of Christmas morning with a fabulous breakfast casserole. You’ll create memories over each delightful bite, ensuring a day filled with laughter and love.