Christmas Morning "Wife Saver"
A hearty breakfast casserole layered with bread, Canadian bacon, cheese, and a flavorful egg mixture, baked to perfection—ideal for festive mornings or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a buttered 9 x 13-inch glass dish, place 8 slices of bread.
- Cover the bread with Canadian bacon, then sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Top with the remaining 8 slices of bread to resemble a sandwich layer.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs; add dry mustard, minced onion, minced green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, milk, and Tabasco, then mix well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cheese.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, melt butter and pour it evenly over the casserole.
- Sprinkle crushed corn flakes on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting Canadian bacon with cooked sausage or ham for varied flavor. You can also use whole grain bread for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, add an extra half cup of milk to the egg mixture. Don’t skip the resting time in the fridge; it allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture fully, enhancing the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, a light salad, or a side of crispy hash browns for a hearty breakfast spread. For a complete brunch, consider serving it alongside a refreshing beverage like a mimosa or coffee.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy it as a quick breakfast option throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Morning "Wife Saver" contains roughly 743 calories, with 15g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), calcium (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 747mg per serving (32% 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 in advance?
Yes, this casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when baked the following morning.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese option, you can substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a blend of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While this casserole is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To bake from frozen, add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing for the best results.
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).