| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Sausage | 1 pound |
| Mustard Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Kosher Salt | 1/3 teaspoon |
| Large Eggs (beaten) | 4 |
| Whole Milk | 2 quarts |
| Toasted White Bread (diced) | 6 slices |
| Mild Cheddar Cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
Why This Christmas Morning Casserole is the Best
This classic breakfast casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of sausage and cheddar cheese with a silky, custard-like egg mixture that gets soaked into cubes of crispy toasted bread. It’s an effortless dish you can prepare the night before, allowing you to relax and enjoy your holiday morning with a warm slice of comfort food ready to go.
How to Make the Perfect Christmas Morning Casserole
1. Cook the Sausage to Golden Perfection
In a medium skillet, crumble the ground sausage and cook over medium heat until it turns a uniform brown. This step is crucial for developing deep, meaty flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to avoid an oily casserole.
. Prepare the Rich Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they’re fully whisked. Add 1/3 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of mustard powder, and pour in 2 quarts of whole milk. This mixture forms the creamy custard base of the casserole that soaks into the bread, binding the layers together.
Combine the Key Components
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked sausage
- Diced toasted white bread
- 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
Pour the egg and milk mixture over the sausage, bread, and cheese. Stir gently to ensure the bread is evenly soaked and everything is coated thoroughly. The bread will absorb the egg mixture and act as the backbone of the casserole.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help in getting those perfectly golden edges we all love.
Let It Rest and Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the baking dish with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This resting time is essential for the flavors to intensify and the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
6. Bake the Casserole to Perfection
On Christmas morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Keep the casserole covered with foil and bake it for 45 to 60 minutes. This step ensures the center gets cooked thoroughly.
Then, remove the foil, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C), and continue baking for 30 more minutes. This final step helps develop a beautiful golden-brown crust on top and ensures the casserole sets perfectly.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. The cheesy, savory aroma will signal that your Christmas brunch is ready to delight every guest at the table
