Joan'S Christmas Bake
A hearty, cheesy breakfast casserole combining bread, sausage, eggs, and sharp cheddar, perfect for holiday mornings or family brunches with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bread cubes in a shallow baking dish.
- Top with cooked sausage, breaking up lumps as needed.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the sausage and bread.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, mustard, and Tabasco if using.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sourdough or whole grain bread instead of regular white bread. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute half of the milk with unsweetened almond milk. Adding sautéed onions or bell peppers can enhance the dish further. Also, feel free to swap out Cheddar cheese for a sharper cheese like Gruyère for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Joan's Christmas Bake warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or a light fruit salad for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside No Bake Cherry Cream Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a versatile choice for brunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joan'S Christmas Bake contains roughly 645 calories, with 20g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (75% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2015mg per serving (88% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. In the morning, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
What can I use instead of sausage?
For a vegetarian option, substitute the bulk sausage with crumbled tofu or tempeh seasoned with your favorite spices. Alternatively, cooked turkey sausage or chicken sausage can be used for a lighter meat option.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to two months. Cut the bake into portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).