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There’s something magical about waking up on Christmas morning. The twinkling lights, cozy pajamas, the joyful bustle of loved ones—and, if you’re anything like me, the irresistible aroma of a CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE warming gently in the oven. Back when I was a kid growing up in Georgia, the kitchen was where Christmas truly came alive. My mama always had something bubbling on the stove, bless her heart, and casseroles were the crown jewel of our spread.
Fast forward to my own kitchen today in Austin, and it’s still my favorite tradition. One bite of a hearty breakfast casserole loaded with eggs, sausage, cheese, and a little holiday magic—well, it’ll make you believe again. Whether you’re feeding two or twelve, a CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE settles the hunger before the gift wrap flies and the cocoa flows. In this article, I’ll break down my favorite version of this dish, share ingredients and secrets, guide you step-by-step, and even let you in on how to make it ahead with zero stress.
It’s merry, it’s filling, and best of all—it’s completely customizable and fuss-free. Let’s dig in.
Christmas Breakfast Memories & Flavor Fusion
Holiday Morning Magic Starts in the Kitchen
My favorite memories revolve around food—and Christmas morning centers on one staple: CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE. It started out simple: eggs, milk, some stale white bread, sausage if we had it. Over the years, it’s evolved with me. During culinary school in New Orleans, I began swapping white bread for croissants and adding andouille sausage instead of plain beef.
When I started tinkering with popular dishes like this online, I knew I had to pay homage to my roots while adding a twist or two. One version even got a boost from chopped kimchi and shredded cheddar—don’t knock it ‘til you try it. Honestly, casseroles are like a blank canvas, and on Christmas, you get to paint yours with joy, flavor, and family tradition.
From make-ahead marvels to baking it fresh in early dawn light, nothing beats the way a CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE brings everyone to the table like clockwork. Plus, it holds well for seconds—or thirds.
Why Breakfast Casseroles Always Win
A CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE isn’t just delicious, it’s practical. When cooking for a crowd, the last thing you need is eggs made to order or a pancake backlog. That’s where casseroles shine. Toss everything into one dish the night before, and by morning, you’ve got more time for what matters.
They also travel well—I brought one last year to a potluck-style brunch and barely got through the door before folks dug in. It paired well with soft dinner rolls and even make-ahead gravy if you’re feeling indulgent.
Another reason? You can make it kid-friendly or go full gourmet for the adults. Add veggies like roasted red peppers, swap beef for turkey sausage, or sprinkle in some feta cheese for a Greek vibe. Inspired? Good. Keep reading.
Ingredients, Prep & Cooking Guide
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to create this festive dish. I always say—measure with your heart, but here’s a guideline that’ll get you started.
| Ingredient | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Large eggs | 8 |
| Whole milk (or half & half) | 2 cups |
| Cooked sausage (beef, turkey, or spicy) | 1 lb |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Cubed bread or croissants | 4 cups |
| Salt, pepper, garlic powder | To taste |
Want to jazz it up? Add sautéed onions, peppers, even this cinnamon roll casserole as a sweet side idea.
Tools you might need:
Timing Details
This isn’t one of those recipes that eats up your entire morning. It’s practical and efficient.
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 15 minutes |
| Rest/soak time (overnight optional) | 8 hours (fridge) |
| Baking time | 45 minutes |
| Total time | About 1 hour (excluding overnight) |
Use the Mixing bowls with snap lids to store your soaked casserole overnight for a simple morning bake.
Your Guide to a Perfect Christmas Morning Casserole
- Grease your dish with butter (or spray).
- Layer bread or croissant chunks first.
- Scatter sausage, cheese, and optional add-ins.
- Mix eggs, milk, salt, and seasoning.
- Pour mixture evenly over the layers.
- Wrap and refrigerate overnight, or bake immediately.
- Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes.
Pro tip: Let it rest for 10 minutes post-bake so it sets beautifully. Want to explore twist ideas? Check out this breakfast strata recipe next.
Crowd-Pleasing Variations & Pairings
Customizing to Fit Your Crowd
The beauty of a CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE lies in its flexibility. Got vegetarians in the house? Swap sausage for roasted mushrooms and add baby spinach. Want heat? Toss in jalapeños alongside pepper jack cheese. Hosting toddlers or picky eaters? Stick with soft white bread, creamy eggs, and mild cheddar.
One reader raved about a version made with biscuit dough. Give it a try using this biscuit casserole as inspiration. Another favorite: hash browns layered in the base. Just like this hash brown casserole, crispy magic meets eggy richness.
For a complementary dish, serve with a zesty citrus salad or roasted tomatoes.
Nutrition, Balance & Storage Tips
A protein-packed breakfast like this sets the tone for a festive but balanced day. According to MyPlate by the USDA, starting with protein and fat can help control cravings for the sweeter indulgences that follow.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. They microwave like a dream and can even be cubed into breakfast wraps.
Pair with coffee or mulled cider, and you’ve got an encore ready.
More Inspiration & Classic Casseroles
Retro Recipes That Still Rock
Classic CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE recipes are timeless for a reason—but if you’re a culinary rebel like I am, trying something like Jackie Kennedy’s breakfast casserole or even evolving it with John Wayne’s western influence is worth a peek.
This recipe is all-American comfort food, blending nostalgic tradition with just enough room for creative freedom. Researching classic alternatives like John Wayne’s casserole helps you understand how regional ingredients tell different Christmas stories.
Consider using this glass casserole dish for presentation—the kind you pull out for guests because it’s just that nice.
Make-Ahead & Gift-Worthy Ideas
Need to feed folks early, or sleep in and let the oven do the work? CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE can always be prepped the night before. Assemble, cover, and chill. Come sunrise? Just bake and enjoy the morning.
Want to take it up a notch? Bake in mini casserole dishes and wrap with ribbon for edible gifts your guests can take home.
Glass storage containers like these set of 10 meal preps help with portion control and eliminate waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Christmas breakfast menu?
A traditional menu could include a CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE paired with soft dinner rolls, fresh fruit, orange juice, and something sweet like cinnamon rolls. Don’t forget fresh coffee or cocoa to round it off.
What is Jackie Kennedy’s casserole?
Jackie Kennedy’s breakfast casserole is a simple overnight egg and cheese dish, often served with lightly buttered toast or jam. It’s minimal yet elegant.
What to eat on Christmas Day morning?
Opt for warm, satisfying foods that carry you through the present-opening madness—think casseroles, stratas, baked goods, and maybe even sweet potatoes or festive muffins.
What is John Wayne’s casserole?
John Wayne’s version includes ground beef, jalapeños, and biscuit dough—giving it a Tex-Mex twist perfect for spicing up your Christmas table.
Conclusion
So there you have it. A loaded, flavorful, customizable CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE that makes holiday breakfast magical—not stressful. Whether you’re feeding a full house or treating your significant other to something special, this dish works every time.
Feel free to mix and match, just like I do. Add a dash of your family’s flavor and your own creative take. For even more brunch-worthy recipes, check out our Christmas brunch collection, and keep your kitchen rich with memory and aroma.
Because when it comes to the holidays, there’s no better place than around the table.
Print
CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE: A Festive Tradition with Flavor
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A hearty, customizable CHRISTMAS MORNING CASSEROLE featuring eggs, sausage, cheese, and bread—ideal for festive family breakfasts. Prep ahead and bake fresh Christmas morning for maximum joy with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk (or half & half)
1 lb cooked sausage
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 cups cubed bread or croissants
Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Optional: sautéed onions, roasted peppers, baby spinach, jalapeños, feta cheese
Instructions
1. Grease a non-stick baking dish with butter or spray.
2. Layer bread or croissant chunks in the dish.
3. Scatter sausage, cheese, and optional add-ins on top.
4. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and seasonings.
5. Pour egg mixture evenly over the layers.
6. Cover and refrigerate overnight (optional).
7. Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes until set.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be customized with vegetarian options or added heat for adult palates.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Perfect for potlucks and giftable when made in mini dishes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Christmas breakfast, casserole, make-ahead, family brunch