Christmas Morning Egg Casserole
A comforting overnight egg casserole with cheesy bread layers, perfect for Christmas morning or special brunch gatherings. Rich, savory, and easy to prepare in advance.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the crust off the bread and butter each slice.
- In a greased casserole dish, place a layer of bread and a layer of cheese.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- In a bowl, beat eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese.
- Chill the casserole overnight.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the cheddar with any favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère. If you want to add veggies, sautéed spinach or bell peppers work well. For added flavor, sprinkle herbs like chives or thyme between the layers. Make sure to butter the bread generously for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a festive brunch and pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausages. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or salsa on top for an added kick. Consider complementing your meal with a sweet treat like Apple Cobbler Cake for dessert.
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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Morning Egg Casserole contains roughly 642 calories, with 14g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 596mg per serving (26% 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 the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. Simply assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?
Yes, using whole eggs is perfectly fine for this recipe. The whole eggs will provide structure and richness to the casserole. If you prefer a lighter dish, you might consider using egg whites, but the texture may be slightly different.
What if I want to make this vegetarian?
This casserole is naturally vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your cheese is rennet-free if you're looking for a completely vegetarian option. You can also add in vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to enhance flavor and nutrition.
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).