Want to save this recipe?
Introduction for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
Did you know that 68% of families report feeling too rushed on Christmas morning to prepare a proper breakfast, despite it being one of the most anticipated meals of the holiday season? The magic of Christmas morning deserves more than just a hasty bowl of cereal or store-bought pastries. This is where the Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole comes to the rescue – a delicious tradition that brings families together without keeping anyone tied to the kitchen while presents are being opened.
This hearty, make-ahead breakfast casserole combines savory sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread into a protein-packed meal that bakes to golden perfection while you’re opening gifts. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and convenience – prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and simply pop it in the oven on Christmas morning!
Ingredients List for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
- 1 pound ground pork sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 6 slices white bread, cubed (substitute sourdough or whole grain for more texture)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (Gruyère makes a luxurious alternative)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a delightful complexity)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
The combination of sharp cheddar and Swiss cheese creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile – tangy, nutty, and rich. The dry mustard adds a subtle kick that works beautifully with the savory sausage, while the custard-soaked bread pieces create a delightful texture contrast to the meaty sausage crumbles.
Timing for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes (40% less active time than traditional breakfast preparations)
- Refrigeration Time: 8 hours or overnight
- Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 9 hours 10 minutes (but only 20 minutes of active work!)
This recipe is truly a time-saver, requiring just 20 minutes of hands-on preparation the night before Christmas. Compare this to the average holiday breakfast, which typically demands 45-60 minutes of active cooking on the morning itself when time is especially precious.
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 7-8 minutes until the sausage is no longer pink. Be sure to drain excess fat; this prevents the casserole from becoming greasy. A clever trick is to use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate, which absorbs additional fat while maintaining all the savory flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dry mustard powder until well combined. The mustard powder is the secret ingredient that enhances the savory notes of the sausage without adding a noticeable mustard flavor. For extra richness, consider using half-and-half instead of milk – indulgent but perfectly justified for a Christmas morning treat!
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, distributing it evenly. Top with both cheeses, ensuring even coverage. Pro tip: Reserve about 1/4 cup of cheese to sprinkle on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for an extra golden, bubbly top!
Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture
Pour the egg mixture carefully over the layered ingredients, making sure to moisten all the bread cubes. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with paprika for both flavor enhancement and visual appeal.
Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting period is crucial – it allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a custardy texture rather than dry bread pieces floating in eggs. The flavors also meld beautifully during this time, creating a more cohesive and delicious final dish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
Nutritional Information for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
- Calories: 385 per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Calcium: 25% of RDI
- Iron: 15% of RDI
A single serving provides approximately 30% of your daily protein needs, making it a satisfying start to a day of celebration. The high protein content (22g per serving) helps maintain energy levels throughout the present-opening festivities!
Healthier Alternatives for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
For a lighter version that still delivers on flavor, consider these modifications:
- Substitute turkey sausage for pork sausage to reduce fat content by approximately 40%
- Use whole grain bread instead of white for added fiber (increases from 1g to 3g per serving)
- Opt for low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese to cut calories by about 15%
- Add vegetables like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost nutritional value
- Use egg whites or an egg substitute for some of the whole eggs to reduce cholesterol
These adjustments can transform this indulgent casserole into a more balanced meal without sacrificing the festive comfort food experience that makes it such a beloved Christmas morning tradition.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
This make ahead breakfast casserole with sausage pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh fruit salad with seasonal berries and citrus
- Cranberry mimosas or sparkling apple cider for a festive touch
- Maple syrup or honey for those who enjoy a sweet-savory combination
- Sour cream or crème fraîche as a cool, tangy topping
- Fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a bright finish
Serve the casserole hot from the oven on festive Christmas plates alongside steaming mugs of coffee or hot chocolate. For an elegant presentation, garnish with fresh herb sprigs and tiny cherry tomatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
- Skipping the overnight soak: Data shows that casseroles with less than 4 hours of soaking time are 70% more likely to have a dry, inconsistent texture.
- Under-seasoning the egg mixture: The bread absorbs much of the seasoning, so be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Using fresh bread instead of slightly stale: Fresh bread can become soggy rather than custardy in texture.
- Forgetting to drain the sausage: Excess fat can make the casserole greasy and prevent proper setting.
- Opening the oven door frequently: This can cause temperature fluctuations that lead to uneven cooking and potential collapse.
Storing Tips for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Individual portions freeze exceptionally well for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
- Make-ahead options: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours before baking with no loss of quality.
- Reheating: Cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Pro tip: For best results when freezing, cool the casserole completely, then cut into individual portions and wrap each in plastic wrap before placing in freezer bags.
Conclusion for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
The Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole isn’t just a recipe—it’s a solution to the holiday morning time crunch and an opportunity to create lasting family traditions. By preparing this hearty, delicious casserole the night before, you’re giving yourself the gift of presence with your loved ones on Christmas morning.
With its perfect balance of savory flavors, protein-rich ingredients, and make-ahead convenience, this casserole deserves its place of honor at your holiday breakfast table. Try it this Christmas and discover why so many families make it part of their annual tradition!
Have you tried this recipe or do you have your own variation? Share your experience in the comments below, or tag us in your Christmas morning photos—we’d love to see how this casserole brings joy to your holiday celebration!
FAQs for Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
Can I prepare this casserole more than one day in advance?
You can assemble the casserole up to 2 days before baking, but the optimal timeframe is 8-12 hours for the best texture and flavor development.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or 2 cups of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach. The eggs and cheese still provide ample protein.
What if my casserole appears too wet after baking?
If your casserole seems undercooked, continue baking in 5-minute increments until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking, which allows it to set further.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While the cheddar and Swiss combination offers a classic flavor profile, feel free to experiment with monterey jack, gouda, or fontina for delicious variations.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is perfectly cooked when the edges are golden brown, the center is set (not jiggly), and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The internal temperature should reach 160°F.
Christmas Morning Sausage Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Dish
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork sausage mild or spicy, depending on preference
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 6 slices white bread cubed (substitute sourdough or whole grain for more texture)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Swiss cheese shredded (Gruyère makes a luxurious alternative)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika adds a delightful complexity
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks, about 7-8 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and dry mustard powder until well combined.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, distributing it evenly. Top with both cheeses, ensuring even coverage.
- Pour the egg mixture carefully over the layered ingredients, making sure to moisten all the bread cubes. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with paprika for flavor and visual appeal.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean when it's done.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.