Christmas Breakfast
A hearty Christmas breakfast casserole featuring seasoned croutons, savory sausage, eggs, cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for festive mornings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread croutons in a lightly greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Cook sausage until well browned, stirring to crumble. Drain well.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage over the croutons.
- Combine eggs, milk, cream of mushroom soup, drained mushrooms, and dry mustard; mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and croutons.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F (160°C) for 50 to 55 minutes.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or a mixture of sausage types. You can substitute the croutons with stale bread, cut into cubes, for a homemade touch. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute. This dish can also be customized with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a kick, or a blend of cheeses for richness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious breakfast casserole with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Overnight Egg Bake for a festive brunch spread. For an extra touch, consider drizzling a bit of hot sauce or salsa on top for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick breakfast, but the oven method helps maintain the dish's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Breakfast contains roughly 965 calories, with 33g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1275mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this breakfast casserole is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the dish the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want to avoid cream of mushroom soup, you can use a homemade white sauce or a different cream soup, such as cream of chicken or broccoli. Alternatively, mixing sour cream or Greek yogurt with some broth can create a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).