My Favorite Christmas Breakfast Casserole Tradition

by

Christmas morning just wouldn’t be complete without this Warm and Hearty Breakfast Casserole — my family’s long-standing holiday tradition. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish that fills the house with mouthwatering aromas while you unwrap gifts and sip coffee. With layers of soft bread, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and savory sausage or ham, it’s a one-dish wonder that feels like Christmas comfort on a plate.

This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years — easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and full of cozy holiday flavor. Whether you serve it for brunch, breakfast, or even a late-morning feast, it’s that special dish everyone looks forward to all season long.

2. Ingredients

This breakfast casserole uses simple ingredients that come together for the perfect balance of richness, texture, and flavor.

Ingredients List

For the Base

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra gooeyness)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp dried thyme or parsley

For the Filling

  • 6 cups cubed bread (French, brioche, or sandwich bread)
  • 1 lb breakfast sausage (or diced ham, bacon, or turkey sausage)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • ½ red bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • ½ cup baby spinach or chopped kale (optional for color and freshness)

Optional Add-Ons

  • ¼ cup chopped green onions
  • ½ cup mushrooms, sautéed
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or pepper jack for extra flavor

Key Ingredients

Bread: Acts as the base, soaking up all the eggy goodness for a fluffy, baked texture.
Sausage or Ham: Adds savory flavor that makes this casserole hearty and satisfying.
Eggs & Milk: Form the custard that binds everything together.
Cheese: The melty magic that makes every bite irresistible.
Herbs: Add that warm, festive touch.

Optional Add-Ons / Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add more veggies like peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.
  • Sweet-Savory Twist: Add caramelized onions or a sprinkle of maple syrup.
  • Make-Ahead Overnight Casserole: Prepare the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
  • Holiday Deluxe: Mix sausage and bacon for a flavor-packed combo.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

This casserole is easy enough for anyone to make, even when the kitchen is full of holiday cheer (and chaos).

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  3. Cook sausage in a skillet until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, sauté onions and peppers until soft.

Cooking Steps

  1. Layer the bread:
    • Spread cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  2. Add the fillings:
    • Scatter cooked sausage, onions, and any veggies evenly over the bread.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
  3. Make the egg mixture:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs.
    • Pour mixture evenly over the bread and fillings.
  4. Soak:
    • Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes (or overnight if prepping ahead) so the bread absorbs the custard.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
  6. Cool & serve:
    • Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of fresh fruit or orange juice for a balanced breakfast.
  • Drizzle with hot sauce, salsa, or ketchup for a flavorful kick.
  • Pair with cinnamon rolls or pastries for a festive brunch spread.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of extra cheese before serving.

4. Tips, Substitutions & Notes

Pro Tips for Better Results

  • Use day-old bread — it soaks up the egg mixture better.
  • Let the casserole rest before cutting for clean slices.
  • For an extra crispy top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy holiday twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using too much milk — can make the casserole soggy.
  • Overbaking — the eggs will become rubbery.
  • Skipping the rest time before baking — bread won’t absorb enough custard.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Sausage → ham, bacon, or turkey sausage
  • Cheddar → Swiss, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack
  • Milk → half-and-half or non-dairy milk (for lactose-free version)
  • Bread → croissants, rolls, or gluten-free bread

Texture, Flavor & Health Variations

  • Add spinach or kale for nutrients.
  • Reduce cheese for a lighter version.
  • Add diced tomatoes or herbs for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Use egg whites and lean turkey sausage for a lower-fat option.

5. Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezing

Freeze fully baked casserole for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.

Reheating

  • Oven: 350°F for 10–15 minutes, covered with foil.
  • Microwave: Heat slices 45–60 seconds each.
  • Air Fryer: 325°F for 5 minutes for crisp edges.

6. Nutrition (Approximate)

(per serving, 1/8 of casserole)

  • Calories: 350–420
  • Protein: 22–28g
  • Carbs: 25–30g
  • Fat: 18–22g
  • Fiber: 2–3g
  • Sodium: Moderate

7. Conclusion

This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is more than just a recipe — it’s a holiday tradition that brings family together. Easy to prepare, warm, and bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect start to your festive morning. Whether you make it fresh or prepare it overnight, this dish guarantees full bellies, happy smiles, and that comforting feeling that only Christmas breakfast can bring.

Leave a Comment