Start your holiday morning off right with this delightful Christmas breakfast casserole recipe. It’s the perfect dish to serve family and friends, combining eggs, cheese, and seasonal veggies, all baked to golden perfection. This casserole not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with the warm, inviting aroma of the holidays, making it an essential part of your festive breakfast table.
Ingredients
– 1 loaf of crusty bread, cubed
– 8 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the casserole) contains approximately: 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled sausage over the bread.
6. Add the chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, and onion on top of the sausage.
7. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the sausage with bacon or ham for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to use any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella or feta, and switch out the veggies based on your family’s favorites.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a side of crispy bacon, or a warm croissant. Consider serving with a festive beverage like mulled cider or a classic mimosa to elevate your breakfast experience.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen before baking; just thaw and cook as directed when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overmixing the egg mixture to prevent a rubbery texture.
– Use stale bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
– Ensure the vegetables are finely chopped for even cooking.
– Don’t skip the resting time to allow flavors to meld before baking.
– Check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
– Cover with foil if it browns too quickly.
– Adjust cooking time based on your oven’s performance.
Helpful Tips
– Prepare the casserole the night before for an easy morning.
– Consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
– Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a flavor boost.
– If you like a crispy top, broil for a few minutes after baking.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning for a hot breakfast.
What can I use in place of the bread?
You can substitute the bread with hash browns or even cooked quinoa for a gluten-free option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it unbaked. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout.
Conclusion
This Christmas breakfast casserole recipe is a must-try for your holiday celebrations. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the festive spirit while sharing a delicious meal with loved ones!
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of crusty bread cubed
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked sausage crumbled
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 1 onion diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled sausage over the bread.
- Add the chopped spinach, diced bell pepper, and onion on top of the sausage.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
