Ah, Christmas morning! The air is filled with excitement, laughter, and the delightful aroma of delicious food. It’s a time when friends and family gather around the table, and I believe breakfast is the heart of the celebration. When it comes to *christmas breakfast ideas for a crowd*, nothing beats a hearty, comforting dish that brings everyone together. Imagine everyone waking up to the smell of baked goodness wafting through the house, ready to dive into a warm, cheesy breakfast casserole that sets the tone for a joyful day.

For me, breakfast during the holidays is especially significant. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to connect before the day’s festivities kick into high gear. I love serving something that can feed many, allowing us to linger at the table, share memories, and create new ones. This recipe brings all those warm, fuzzy feelings and is perfect for feeding a crowd without spending all morning in the kitchen. Trust me, this is the breakfast everyone will be talking about long after the last present is unwrapped!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this festive breakfast casserole. Gather these ingredients and let’s get started!

• 12 eggs: Large, room temperature for easier whisking.
• 1 cup milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can use any milk you prefer.
• 2 cups shredded cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella works beautifully, but feel free to use your favorite.
• 1 pound cooked sausage: Crumbled. You can use breakfast sausage or any variety you like, including turkey or chicken.
• 1 loaf of bread: Cubed. Day-old bread or a hearty loaf like sourdough or brioche adds great texture.
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers: Any color you like! They add a nice crunch and sweetness.
• 1/2 cup diced onions: Yellow or white onions work best for flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out all the flavors!
• Fresh herbs for garnish: Such as parsley or chives, to add a lovely touch before serving.

How to Prepare Instructions

Let’s get that oven preheated and dive into the steps for this delightful breakfast casserole! Follow along, and you’ll have a beautiful dish ready to impress your guests.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring even cooking, so don’t skip this step!
2. Whisk the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 12 eggs and 1 cup of milk until well combined. You want everything to be nice and frothy – it helps the casserole rise beautifully.
3. Add the goodies: Now, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the 2 cups of shredded cheese, crumbled sausage, cubed bread, diced bell peppers, and diced onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good mix to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. I suggest a 9×13 inch pan for this recipe, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Just make sure it’s greased to prevent sticking!
5. Bake it: Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the center and a golden crust forms on top. If you gently shake the dish, it should look firm, not jiggly.
6. Rest before serving: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to cut into squares.
7. Garnish: Finally, sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Parsley or chives work wonders here!

And there you have it! A simple, tasty breakfast casserole that’s sure to be a hit. Now, just imagine the smiles on everyone’s faces as they dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This breakfast casserole is not just another dish; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings everyone together! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this dish ready to bake and spend more time enjoying the festivities.
• Perfect for Large Gatherings: It serves 8, making it an ideal choice for Christmas breakfast with family and friends.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of eggs, cheese, and sausage creates a hearty meal that everyone will love.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it the night before, allowing you to relax on Christmas morning while it bakes.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your guests’ preferences, whether it’s going vegetarian or adding in your favorite veggies.

This casserole is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition that everyone looks forward to year after year!

Tips for Success

To make sure your breakfast casserole turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few pro tips to share! These little tricks have saved me from many kitchen mishaps, and I’m excited to pass them on to you.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and milk sit out for about 30 minutes before you start. This helps everything blend more easily and creates a fluffier texture in the final dish.
• Prep Ahead: If you’re planning a big gathering, prepare the mixture the night before. Just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, all you have to do is pour it into the baking dish and bake it! Trust me, this will be a lifesaver on Christmas morning.
• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.
• Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Allowing the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes helps it set, making it easier to cut into neat squares without falling apart.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in your favorite spices or veggies! A pinch of paprika or a handful of spinach can elevate this dish to a whole new level.

With these tips, you’re set for breakfast success! Enjoy the deliciousness and the smiles it brings to your holiday table.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or have specific tastes to accommodate, there are plenty of ways to switch up this breakfast casserole recipe! Here are a few delicious variations to consider:

• Veggie Delight: Swap out the sausage for a medley of sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms. This not only makes it vegetarian-friendly but also adds a burst of color and nutrients!
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs by adding chopped basil, cilantro, or dill into the egg mixture. Each herb brings its unique flavor, taking your casserole to a whole new level.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. The spiciness pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness and will delight your guests!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or your guests’ preferences. The possibilities are endless!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! This breakfast casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for enjoying more than once. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:

• Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual portions. Just cut the cooled casserole into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 2-3 months!

When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole again, reheating is a breeze:

• Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave Option: For a quicker option, you can microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated evenly. Just be careful not to overdo it, or it might dry out!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your Christmas breakfast casserole long after the holiday is over!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional benefits of this delicious breakfast casserole! While enjoying a hearty meal, it’s always good to have an idea of what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per serving (1 slice):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Sugar: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. It’s a filling and satisfying option to fuel your festive day ahead!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I make this breakfast casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it in the morning. This makes it one of the easiest *christmas breakfast ideas for a crowd*, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends on Christmas morning.

Q2. What can I substitute for sausage in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option or just want to switch things up, you can omit the sausage entirely or replace it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. This keeps the casserole hearty and delicious!

Q3. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
You’ll want to look for the casserole to be set in the center and a golden crust on top. When you gently shake the dish, it should look firm rather than jiggly. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Q4. Can I freeze leftovers from this casserole?
Yes! Once the casserole has cooled completely, you can cut it into squares and freeze individual portions. Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. It’s a great way to enjoy this festive dish later on!

Q5. What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
There are plenty of ways to customize this breakfast casserole! Try adding different cheeses, like feta or pepper jack, or incorporate fresh herbs like dill or basil. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes or add in your favorite seasonal vegetables!

Christmas Breakfast Ideas for a Crowd That Will Wow Everyone

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious breakfast ideas perfect for a Christmas gathering.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 pound cooked sausage, crumbled
• 1 loaf of bread, cubed
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
3. Add cheese, sausage, bread, bell peppers, onions, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix well and pour into a greased baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until set.
6. Let cool slightly and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Notes

• Prepare the mixture the night before for easier cooking in the morning.
• Serve with a side of fresh fruit.
• Can be made vegetarian by omitting sausage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 220mg

Keywords: christmas breakfast ideas for a crowd