Christmas Breakfast Casserole
|

Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe – Easy Holiday Brunch

ByBella Skye
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Christmas mornings are meant to be warm, joyful, and stress-free, and nothing embodies that more than a Christmas breakfast casserole. This dish is the ultimate blend of comfort and convenience, combining fluffy eggs, golden hashbrowns, savory meats, and rich cheeses into a hearty bake that pleases every member of the family. The aroma of a Christmas breakfast casserole filling the kitchen instantly evokes memories of festive gatherings, laughter, and cozy mornings.

More Christmas Recipes

What makes this casserole special is its versatility. You can adapt it to your family’s tastes, using a variety of vegetables, cheeses, and proteins. Whether you prefer a classic breakfast casserole with sausage, a more decadent Christmas breakfast strata, or a make-ahead hashbrown breakfast casserole, this dish is designed to deliver layers of flavor that are rich but not overwhelming. The textures range from crispy edges to creamy interiors, making each bite a satisfying mix of savory comfort.

From casual holiday mornings to fancy Christmas brunches, a Christmas breakfast casserole fits seamlessly into any celebration. It’s a dish that can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. This recipe brings together the best aspects of savory Christmas morning casseroles while keeping the steps approachable for home cooks of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Christmas breakfast casserole isn’t just another dish it’s a centerpiece of holiday morning joy. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with it:

  • Stress-Free Holiday Mornings
    This casserole is a make-ahead breakfast that allows you to prep the night before. Simply assemble, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for a hot, hearty meal that feels like it came from a gourmet brunch buffet.
  • Layered Flavors and Textures
    The combination of tender eggs, crisped edges of baked hashbrowns, melted cheese, and flavorful proteins creates a dish that is rich, satisfying, and indulgent without being overly complicated.
  • Versatility for Every Taste
    Whether you love a classic German breakfast casserole, a savory Christmas breakfast with bacon and sausage, or a festive Christmas morning egg bake with vegetables, this recipe is easily customizable. It accommodates vegetarian variations, fancy Christmas breakfast versions, and even frozen options for convenience.
  • Family-Friendly
    Everyone can enjoy it. Children love the cheesy, fluffy texture, while adults appreciate the complexity of flavors when you add fresh herbs or smoked meats. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser and perfect for holiday gatherings or company breakfasts.
  • Impressive Presentation
    This dish doubles as a centerpiece for holiday brunch. With its golden crust, bubbling cheese, and colorful vegetable layers, it looks as impressive as it tastes, making it perfect for Christmas brunch dishes or a festive holiday morning table.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Servings: 8-10

This timing works perfectly for a holiday morning, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities while the oven does most of the work.

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed (or shredded fresh potatoes)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or diced ham/bacon)
  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking dish

Substitution Notes:

  • Milk can be replaced with half-and-half for a richer casserole or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Hashbrowns can be substituted with diced potatoes or even a combination of sweet potatoes for a sweeter, festive twist.
  • Cheeses can vary depending on preference; Gruyère or Swiss cheese adds a fancy, gourmet flavor.
  • Sausage can be swapped with cooked turkey sausage, ham, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Step-by-Step Instructions

casserole vector 2

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. A well-greased dish ensures that your Christmas breakfast casserole doesn’t stick and allows the edges to crisp beautifully.

casserole vector 2

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. The egg mixture is the foundation of the casserole, so whisk thoroughly to ensure a uniform texture and flavor.

casserole vector 2

Step 3: Layer the Hashbrowns

Evenly spread the thawed hashbrowns across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press them lightly to create an even layer. This layer acts as a hearty base that crisps at the edges while remaining tender in the center.

casserole vector 2

Step 4: Add the Protein and Vegetables

Scatter the cooked sausage (or your chosen protein) over the hashbrowns. Next, evenly distribute any optional vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or greens. Layering the vegetables ensures each bite has a balance of flavors and textures.

casserole vector 2

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the layered hashbrowns, meats, and vegetables. Cheese is critical for binding the casserole and adding a rich, gooey texture that melts into every layer.

casserole vector 2

Step 6: Pour the Egg Mixture

Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers, ensuring it seeps through evenly. Gently shake the dish to allow the eggs to settle and fill in gaps. This step ensures that the casserole sets evenly and every layer is coated with the custard-like eggs.

casserole vector 2

Step 7: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, the top is golden brown, and the edges are crisp. To test, insert a knife into the center if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

casserole vector 2

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat portions and enhancing the flavor as the residual heat continues to meld the ingredients.

How to Serve

Serving a Christmas breakfast casserole is all about presentation, balance, and pairing it with complementary sides to create a festive holiday meal. Slice the casserole into generous portions and place them on warm plates to keep them inviting. For a classic holiday table, pair the casserole with lightly dressed fresh fruit, such as orange segments, grapes, or berries, to add a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors. You can also serve it alongside a green salad or roasted winter vegetables for a more balanced brunch, or offer warm muffins, croissants, or a crusty baguette to round out the meal.

Christmas Breakfast Casserole

To elevate your casserole for a special Christmas brunch, consider small garnishes and sauces that enhance both flavor and visual appeal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma. Drizzle with hot sauce, hollandaise, or a tangy tomato chutney for those who enjoy a flavor boost. Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee, hot cocoa, or spiced tea to complete the cozy holiday experience. By thoughtfully pairing sides and garnishes, your Christmas breakfast casserole can shine as the centerpiece of a festive, memorable, and visually stunning holiday table.

Additional Tips

  • Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed.
  • Even Cooking: Let frozen hashbrowns thaw completely and squeeze excess moisture to prevent a soggy bottom.
  • Crispier Edges: Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to achieve golden, crunchy edges.
  • Layering Strategy: Denser ingredients like meats and vegetables should sit closer to the bottom; cheese in the middle and top helps bind everything beautifully.
  • Knife Trick: Use a serrated knife to cut clean slices without dragging or mashing the layers.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Christmas Breakfast Casserole
    Skip the meat and use a mix of seasonal vegetables such as roasted mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and fresh spinach. Add a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheese for richness. You can also include sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions for deeper flavor. This version is perfect for a lighter, yet equally satisfying, holiday breakfast.
  • Fancy Christmas Breakfast Casserole
    Elevate your casserole for a more gourmet presentation by adding smoked salmon, caramelized onions, and Gruyère cheese. Garnish with fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This variation works beautifully for a Christmas brunch with guests, combining festive elegance with comforting flavors.
  • German Breakfast Casserole Twist
    Incorporate bratwurst, sauerkraut, and a hint of nutmeg for a savory European-inspired version. This adds a hearty, slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with melted cheese and eggs. Top with fresh parsley for color and serve with crusty bread for a complete holiday meal.
  • Make-Ahead Hashbrown Casserole
    Perfect for busy mornings, assemble the casserole the night before and freeze it unbaked. This variation is convenient for holidays when you want a stress-free breakfast that can be baked fresh in the morning. Use frozen hashbrowns and your choice of protein and cheese for a reliable, ready-to-bake meal.
  • Breakfast Casserole with a Sweet Twist
    For a fun holiday variation, add cubed apples or pears, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg to the egg mixture. Pair with mild cheddar or a sweet cream cheese layer. This combination creates a sweet-savory Christmas breakfast casserole perfect for festive mornings or a brunch buffet.
  • Italian-Inspired Christmas Breakfast Casserole
    Layer in cooked Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. Drizzle a little marinara sauce over the top before baking for an Italian flair. This version adds bold flavors while maintaining the comforting texture of a traditional breakfast casserole.
  • Holiday Brunch Casserole with Seafood
    For a luxurious twist, add cooked crab meat or shrimp with scallions and a creamy cheese blend. This variation makes your casserole feel like a fancy Christmas morning dish, perfect for entertaining or a special family celebration.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storing Leftovers: Cool the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to ensure thorough cooking.
  • Reheating: For refrigerated portions, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Microwave portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes for convenience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Sugar: 3g

These values will vary depending on substitutions and additions such as extra cheese, vegetables, or meats.

Final Words

Making a Christmas breakfast casserole at home is more than just preparing a meal it’s about creating a memorable experience that your family and guests will cherish. This dish combines convenience, flavor, and festive presentation, allowing you to serve a hearty, comforting breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. The layers of crispy hashbrowns, creamy eggs, savory meats, and melted cheese come together to create a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday morning.

By preparing this casserole, you’re giving yourself the freedom to enjoy the holiday morning without stress. The make-ahead nature of the dish allows you to assemble it the night before, so all you need to do is bake it in the morning and serve. This flexibility makes it ideal for Christmas morning, company breakfasts, or holiday brunch gatherings, letting you focus on connecting with loved ones while the oven does the work. Even home cooks with minimal experience can achieve a professional-looking, flavorful casserole that feels indulgent and celebratory.

Cooking a Christmas breakfast casserole also allows for creativity and personalization. You can adjust the proteins, vegetables, and cheeses to suit your family’s tastes or try festive variations like a German breakfast casserole twist, a fancy Christmas brunch version, or a completely vegetarian option. By preparing this dish at home, you not only enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast but also create traditions, memories, and a sense of togetherness that store-bought alternatives can’t match. This Christmas, give yourself the gift of a warm, homemade breakfast that delights every guest and sets a joyful tone for the holiday morning.

FAQ’s

Yes, simply omit the meat and substitute with vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add plant-based proteins.

Yes, but it’s best to freeze before baking for optimal texture. Fully baked casseroles can be frozen, but may become slightly watery when reheated.

Yes, dice them into small cubes and partially cook before layering to ensure even baking.

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are classic choices. For a gourmet twist, use Gruyère, Swiss, or smoked cheeses.

Thaw frozen hashbrowns completely and squeeze out excess water. Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to crisp the edges.

Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Easy Holiday Brunch
Print

Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe – Easy Holiday Brunch

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Christmas Recipes
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

50

minutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs

  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 4 cups frozen hashbrowns, thawed (or shredded fresh potatoes)

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled (or diced ham/bacon)

  • 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

  • 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the baking dish

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. A well-greased dish ensures that your Christmas breakfast casserole doesn’t stick and allows the edges to crisp beautifully.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. The egg mixture is the foundation of the casserole, so whisk thoroughly to ensure a uniform texture and flavor.
  • Evenly spread the thawed hashbrowns across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Press them lightly to create an even layer. This layer acts as a hearty base that crisps at the edges while remaining tender in the center.
  • Scatter the cooked sausage (or your chosen protein) over the hashbrowns. Next, evenly distribute any optional vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or greens. Layering the vegetables ensures each bite has a balance of flavors and textures.
  • Sprinkle cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the layered hashbrowns, meats, and vegetables. Cheese is critical for binding the casserole and adding a rich, gooey texture that melts into every layer.
  • Slowly pour the egg mixture over the layers, ensuring it seeps through evenly. Gently shake the dish to allow the eggs to settle and fill in gaps. This step ensures that the casserole sets evenly and every layer is coated with the custard-like eggs.
  • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set, the top is golden brown, and the edges are crisp. To test, insert a knife into the center if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
  • Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Resting helps the layers set, making it easier to cut neat portions and enhancing the flavor as the residual heat continues to meld the ingredients.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed.
  • Even Cooking: Let frozen hashbrowns thaw completely and squeeze excess moisture to prevent a soggy bottom.
  • Crispier Edges: Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to achieve golden, crunchy edges.
  • Layering Strategy: Denser ingredients like meats and vegetables should sit closer to the bottom; cheese in the middle and top helps bind everything beautifully.
  • Knife Trick: Use a serrated knife to cut clean slices without dragging or mashing the layers.

Similar Posts