Christmas Breakfast Casserole

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Golden, bubbly, and packed with cozy holiday flavor, this Christmas Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate way to start your festive morning. With crisped sausage, melty cheese, and pillowy-soft bread cubes all baked into a creamy, savory custard, every bite feels like comfort and celebration wrapped into one. It’s warm, hearty, and satisfying — just what you need after unwrapping gifts or while sipping your first cup of coffee.

What makes this dish especially magical is its make-ahead convenience. Prep it the night before, let it soak up all that rich egg mixture, then bake it fresh in the morning. Whether you’re hosting brunch or looking for an easy yet impressive Christmas morning meal, this casserole brings people together around the table with minimal stress and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients for this Christmas Breakfast Casserole

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or turkey)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 cups day-old French bread, cut into cubes
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra cheesiness)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the baking dish)

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Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the breakfast sausage until browned and fully cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the casserole.

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Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This rich and creamy egg base will soak into the bread, making the casserole custardy and flavorful.

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Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Gently pour the egg mixture over the top, making sure all the bread is soaked. Press the bread down lightly with a spatula if needed.

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Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight (Optional but Recommended)

Cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, giving the casserole a tender, custard-like texture. If you’re short on time, let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking.

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Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes while the oven heats. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a knife inserted in the middle should come out clean).

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a festive touch, then serve warm and enjoy your cozy Christmas morning meal!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers, allow the Christmas Breakfast Casserole to cool completely. Then, cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices into airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm larger amounts in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.

For freezing, wrap the cooled casserole (whole or in portions) in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 195mg
• Sodium: 760mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

(Note: Nutrition values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.

2. Do I have to let it sit overnight?

Not necessarily. While overnight soaking gives the best texture, even 30 minutes of rest will still yield a delicious result.

3. Can I use a different kind of bread?

Yes! Sourdough, brioche, or even whole wheat bread work well. Just make sure it’s slightly stale or toasted for best absorption.

4. What cheese combinations taste best?

Cheddar is classic, but you can mix in gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss for extra flavor.

5. Can I prepare and freeze it before baking?

You can! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

6. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean. If it’s browning too fast, cover loosely with foil.

7. Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?

Yes, but use two baking dishes to ensure even cooking. You may need to increase baking time slightly—check for doneness.

8. What can I serve with this casserole?

Fresh fruit, cinnamon rolls, hash browns, or a light green salad make great sides for a holiday brunch spread.

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