Start your holiday mornings off right with the ultimate crowd-pleaser: the Christmas Morning Egg Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole! This hearty dish combines savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, all nestled atop a bed of delicious cubed bread. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or a festive gathering, this casserole promises to fill your home with mouthwatering aromas and smiles all around. With just 20 minutes of prep and a little patience while it bakes, you’ll have a show-stopping breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your Christmas brunch? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 10 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pound of breakfast sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.
- While the sausage is cooking, take the half loaf of bread and cut it into small cubes. You should have about 4-5 cups of cubed bread, depending on the size of the loaf. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs and whisk them together until well combined. Add in the 2 cups of milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- In a large greased baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom. This will serve as the base for your casserole.
- Next, sprinkle the cooked sausage evenly over the cubed bread, ensuring that it is distributed evenly.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and sausage layers, making sure to cover everything evenly. Gently press down on the bread cubes with a spatula to ensure they soak up the egg mixture.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole, adding as much or as little as you prefer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will help the casserole hold its shape when serving.
- Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Morning Egg Cheese Sausage Breakfast Casserole with family and friends!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on Christmas morning, consider assembling the casserole the night before. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Customize Your Cheese: While shredded cheese is a must, feel free to mix it up! Try using a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
- Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, add some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sausage before layering it in the casserole. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a pop of color.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape and make serving a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 220mg
