This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a warm and cozy mix of eggs, bread, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
I love how easy it is to make the night before! Just pop it in the oven in the morning, and you’ll have a tasty breakfast ready while you enjoy your holiday coffee.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Large eggs are essential here for fluffiness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using egg whites or a mix of whole eggs and egg whites.
Bread: Day-old bread adds great texture. You can use any bread you have on hand. I often go for sourdough or French bread for a bit more flavor. Gluten-free bread works too if you have dietary needs.
Breakfast Sausage: Feel free to swap with turkey sausage or even chorizo for a spicy kick. If avoiding meat, consider using mushrooms or spinach as a hearty alternative.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds richness. Turkey bacon can be a leaner option or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can bring a nice twist. You can also use dairy-free cheese if preferred.
Veggies: The red bell pepper brings sweetness. Swap it for spinach, tomatoes, or even zucchini for different flavors and colors.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole is Creamy and Fluffy?
The secret to fluffy casserole is letting the bread soak in the egg mixture. This allows it to absorb the liquid properly, resulting in a creamy texture. Here’s how to ensure it turns out great:
- Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly; this helps incorporate air, making the casserole fluffier.
- Let the bread sit in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes. If you have time, letting it soak longer can enhance the texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Watch the baking time! Consider checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overcooking.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 6 cups cubed bread (preferably slightly stale or day-old)
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: extra chopped green onions and diced tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Christmas Breakfast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to bake. It’s a perfect way to serve a delicious breakfast to your family while you enjoy the holiday spirit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will be the base of your casserole.
3. Soak the Bread:
Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and gently stir to ensure all pieces are coated. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the egg mixture. This will help create a moist and tender casserole!
4. Mix in the Add-Ins:
Carefully fold in the crumbled breakfast sausage, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, chopped red bell pepper, and most of the sliced green onions (save a little for later garnish!). Make sure it’s all mixed together well.
5. Pour Into the Baking Dish:
Transfer the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly across the dish to ensure it cooks evenly.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.
7. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up a bit.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your casserole with the reserved green onions and diced tomatoes if you like. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors with your family on Christmas morning!
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, just take it out of the fridge, let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to come to room temperature, then bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for a busy Christmas morning!
What Can I Substitute for the Milk?
If you need a dairy-free option, you can easily substitute the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk. Just choose an unsweetened variety to keep the flavors balanced.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your casserole by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to reduce excess moisture in the dish.
