Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor to the casserole.

Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture in the egg mixture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the casserole.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

Bread: Acts as the base, soaking up the egg mixture and adding texture.

Cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole, adding a rich, cheesy flavor.

When browning the sausage, make sure to break it into small crumbles for even cooking and better distribution throughout the casserole. This ensures that every bite has a bit of sausage flavor. Additionally, let the bread cubes sit out for a few hours or toast them lightly to prevent them from becoming too soggy when combined with the egg mixture.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Turkey sausage is a leaner option and provides a similar flavor profile.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage to maintain the texture and flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Use an egg substitute like a commercial egg replacer or a mixture of flaxseed and water for a vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to cow's milk and is suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

• bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread to maintain the structure of the casserole.

• bread - Substitute with potatoes: Diced or shredded potatoes can replace bread for a different texture and flavor.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and provides a milder flavor.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Use a plant-based cheese alternative for a dairy-free option.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. This ensures that condensation doesn't form inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, transfer the casserole to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For freezing, cut the cooled casserole into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This makes it easy to reheat single servings.

• Label the freezer-safe bag or container with the date and contents. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• To reheat from frozen, it's best to thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as for refrigerated casserole.

• For a quicker reheating option, you can use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through, until heated thoroughly.

• If you prefer a crispy top, you can reheat the casserole in the oven for the last few minutes without the aluminum foil. This will help to regain some of the original texture and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to retain moisture, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warmed.

• If you prefer a crispy top, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole on a baking sheet, and heat for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the top doesn't burn.

• For an added touch, reheat the casserole on the stovetop. Cut it into smaller pieces, place them in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until warmed through. This method can give the edges a delightful crispiness.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole pieces in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method will also help maintain a crispy texture.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Skillet: Used to cook the breakfast sausage over medium heat until browned.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

• Whisk: Used to blend the egg mixture smoothly.

• Baking dish: Used to layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and cheese, and to bake the casserole.

• Grease brush: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and shredded cheddar cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and ground black pepper accurately.

• Knife: Used to cube the bread slices.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cube the bread slices.

• Spatula: Used to stir and transfer the cooked sausage.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook and drain the sausage the night before. Cube the bread and shred the cheese in advance.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked breakfast sausage to skip the cooking step entirely.

Mix egg mixture early: Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper the night before and store in the fridge.

Assemble and refrigerate: Layer the bread cubes, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish, then pour the egg mixture over. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Use a larger baking dish: A larger dish can reduce baking time by allowing the casserole to cook more evenly.