Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and hearty flavor to the casserole. Cook and crumble it before adding to the mixture.

Eggs: The base of the casserole, providing structure and richness.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture and blend the ingredients together.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the casserole.

Bread: Cubed and mixed in to provide texture and absorb the egg mixture.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a rich and cheesy flavor throughout the casserole.

To ensure your casserole has a perfect texture, make sure the bread cubes are slightly stale. Fresh bread can become too soggy when mixed with the egg and milk mixture. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by toasting it lightly in the oven for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole. This will help the bread absorb the liquid without becoming mushy, resulting in a more satisfying bite.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with cooked and crumbled vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage is a great alternative for a meat-free option while maintaining the same texture.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes are ideal for those with egg allergies or for a lower-cholesterol option.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to cow's milk and is suitable for those avoiding dairy.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory depth of flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is less visually noticeable in the dish.

• cubed bread - Substitute with cubed gluten-free bread: Gluten-free bread is essential for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• cubed bread - Substitute with cubed cornbread: Cornbread adds a slightly sweet flavor and a different texture to the casserole.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and provides a milder flavor.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded dairy-free cheese: Dairy-free cheese is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to store individual portions, cut the casserole into squares and place them in airtight containers. This makes reheating easier and more convenient.

• To freeze the casserole, first ensure it is completely cooled. Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn.

• For individual servings, wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

• Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. If reheating individual portions, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until hot.

• For a crispier top, you can uncover the casserole for the last 10 minutes of reheating in the oven.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even warming.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, sausage, bread cubes, and cheese.

• Whisk: Helps to beat the eggs and mix them thoroughly with the milk, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and shredded cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the salt and black pepper precisely.

• Baking dish: The container in which the casserole mixture is poured and baked.

• Cooking spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the mixture and ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

• Knife: Needed to cube the bread slices.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cubing the bread.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and taking it out.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool evenly after baking.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook and crumble the sausage the night before.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Pre-cut bread: Cube the bread slices in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Mix and refrigerate: Combine the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper the night before, then refrigerate.

Line the baking dish: Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.