Christmas Breakfast(Make Ahead Breakfast)
A cheesy, savory make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring eggs, bread, cheddar, and bacon, perfect for festive mornings and easy to prepare in advance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts from bread, crumble the bread, and mix with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spread the bread and cheese mixture in the bottom of a greased 7 1/2 x 12-inch baking dish.
- Beat eggs and milk together and stir in salt, pepper, and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and cheese in the baking dish.
- Lay the chopped bacon on top.
- Refrigerate the assembled casserole overnight.
- Next morning, bake uncovered at 350°F for 50 to 55 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using whole grain or sourdough bread instead of white. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a combination of Gruyère and mozzarella for a different taste. Also, adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions can enhance the dish. If you prefer a meat-free option, omit the bacon entirely or replace it with cooked sausage or a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious breakfast casserole with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Peach Champagne Sorbet for a festive touch. Consider offering a side of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. This dish is perfect for holiday brunches and gatherings, making it a great centerpiece for any breakfast table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This casserole can also be frozen before baking; just adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Breakfast(Make Ahead Breakfast) contains roughly 761 calories, with 35g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (75% of the Daily Value), protein (70% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2240mg per serving (97% 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 prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, this casserole is designed to be made ahead! Assemble all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the egg mixture, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just bake it in the morning as directed for a hassle-free breakfast.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for alternatives to bacon, you can use diced ham, cooked sausage, or even turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add flavor and texture without the meat.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular milk with any non-dairy milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just ensure that the non-dairy milk is unsweetened and unflavored to maintain the savory profile of the casserole.
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).