Start your holiday morning with a warm, comforting breakfast that fills the house with irresistible aromas. This Christmas Morning Casserole combines savory sausage, creamy eggs, melty cheese, and golden toasted bread into a make-ahead dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy holiday breakfast.
Christmas Morning Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground sausage | 1 pound |
| Mustard powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher salt | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Large eggs (beaten) | 4 |
| Whole milk | 2 quarts |
| Toasted white bread (diced) | 6 slices |
| Mild cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Why This Christmas Morning Casserole Is a Must-Try
This classic casserole layers the rich flavors of sausage and cheddar with a silky, custard-like egg mixture soaked into cubes of toasted bread. It’s a make-ahead dream, letting you relax and enjoy the holiday morning with a slice of comfort food ready to serve.
Instructions
-
Cook the Sausage:
In a medium skillet, crumble and cook the ground sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Break the sausage into small, even pieces for better distribution in the casserole. -
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add 1/3 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon mustard powder, and 2 quarts of whole milk. This creates the creamy custard base that will soak into the bread, tying the casserole together. -
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, diced toasted bread, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Pour the egg and milk mixture over the top, stirring gently so the bread is evenly soaked and everything is coated. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. At this point, you can refrigerate the casserole overnight to let flavors meld and save prep time on Christmas morning. -
Refrigerate Overnight (Optional):
Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours. This step enhances flavor and ensures the bread absorbs the custard fully. -
Bake the Casserole:
On the morning of serving, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for 45–60 minutes. Then, remove foil, reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C), and bake an additional 30 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust and ensure the center is set. -
Rest and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, savory flavors that make this dish a Christmas morning favorite.
