Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to the irresistible aroma of a warm, hearty casserole wafting through your home. The Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a festive experience that brings family and friends together around the breakfast table. Packed with savory breakfast sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, this delightful casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for serving a crowd. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a baking time that allows you to sip on your morning coffee, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to elevate your holiday breakfast with this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a cherished tradition!
Ingredients
- 1 lb breakfast sausage
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 lb of breakfast sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it's browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 8 large eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. Add in the 2 cups of milk, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Mix until everything is fully combined.
- In the same bowl, gently fold in the 4 cups of cubed bread, ensuring that all the bread is coated with the egg mixture.
- Once the bread is well mixed, add in the cooked sausage, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the sausage and bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and lightly golden on top.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit more.
- Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole!
Tips
- Make Ahead: For a stress-free Christmas morning, prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven!
- Sausage Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. You can use spicy sausage for a kick, turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even a meatless sausage for a vegetarian twist.
- Add Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the sausage for added depth.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is delicious, you can mix it up with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, feta, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can also add a nice finishing touch.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast on busy mornings!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 250mg
