Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and hearty flavor to the casserole.

Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture in the casserole.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the ingredients.

Ground mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor.

Bread: Cubed bread soaks up the egg mixture and adds body to the casserole.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a gooey, cheesy layer.

When browning the sausage, make sure to break it into small, even pieces to ensure it cooks thoroughly and evenly. This will also help distribute the flavor more uniformly throughout the casserole. Additionally, letting the bread cubes sit out for a few hours or toasting them lightly can help them absorb the egg mixture better, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

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

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage which mimics the texture and taste of traditional sausage.

• eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Use a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of flaxseed and water for a vegan alternative.

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

• milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk is another dairy-free alternative that provides a similar consistency.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• ground mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor.

• bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread which will still provide the necessary texture.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: Mozzarella can provide a milder flavor and similar melting properties.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese that melts well.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. This ensures that condensation doesn't form inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Cut it into individual portions for easy reheating. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method helps prevent freezer burn and makes it convenient to thaw only what you need.

• Label the storage container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long the casserole has been stored.

• When ready to reheat, if the casserole is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor of the casserole.

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven. For the oven method, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

• If reheating in the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top before reheating. This adds a fresh, melty layer of cheese that enhances the overall flavor.

• Enjoy your reheated Christmas morning breakfast casserole with a side of fresh fruit or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful start to your day.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 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 a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy texture, use a skillet. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil. Place the casserole slices in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through and slightly crispy.

• For an air fryer method, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole pieces in the basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to bake the casserole until set.

• Skillet: Cook the sausage over medium heat until browned.

• Spatula: Stir and break up the sausage while cooking in the skillet.

• Large bowl: Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and mustard, and combine all ingredients.

• Whisk: Beat the eggs, milk, salt, and mustard together until well combined.

• Measuring cups: Measure out the milk and shredded cheddar cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Measure out the salt and ground mustard.

• Knife: Cube the bread slices.

• Cutting board: Provide a surface to cube the bread.

• 9x13-inch baking dish: Pour the mixture into this greased dish for baking.

• Cooking spray: Grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

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

• Timer: Keep track of the 45-minute baking time.

Cook sausage ahead: Brown the sausage the night before and store it in the fridge to save time in the morning.

Pre-mix ingredients: Whisk the eggs, milk, salt, and mustard together the night before and store in the fridge.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

Pre-cube bread: Cube the bread the night before and store in an airtight container.

Assemble in advance: Combine all ingredients in the baking dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake in the morning.