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A close-up slice of a savory Christmas breakfast casserole on a white plate, showing layers of sausage, egg, and melted cheese. A fork is poised to take a bite.

Christmas Breakfast Casserole (The Ultimate Make-Ahead Recipe)

The ultimate Christmas Breakfast Casserole recipe! This easy, make-ahead dish with sausage, egg, and cheese is perfect for a stress-free and delicious Christmas morning. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for your holiday brunch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound bulk pork sausage mild or hot
  • 1 yellow onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 12 slices day-old bread cubed into 1-inch pieces (about 8 cups)
  • 10 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Skillet
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl

Instructions
 

  1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange the cubed bread in a single layer in the dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess grease.
  3. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dry mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and sausage. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Top with the remaining cheese.
  6. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for the best texture.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge while the oven heats up. Bake, uncovered, for 55-65 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it set up properly.

Notes

Tip 1: Using day-old, sturdy bread is essential to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
Tip 2: For the best flavor and melt, shred your own cheese from a block.
Tip 3: Let the casserole rest before slicing to ensure clean, beautiful servings.
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