Holiday Breakfast Casserole: A Festive and Hearty Dish Recipe

Introduction

This Holiday Breakfast Casserole is a festive and hearty dish perfect for gatherings and chilly mornings. Packed with eggs, bread, cheese, and optional savory additions, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.

Ingredients

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 6 cups cubed bread (such as French bread or sourdough)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled (optional)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
3. Step 3: Layer the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bread. Add cooked sausage or bacon, bell peppers, and spinach or kale if using.
4. Step 4: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and other ingredients, making sure everything is well soaked.
5. Step 5: Let the casserole sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is set and lightly golden on top.
7. Step 7: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old bread for best texture; it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
• Try different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for varied flavors.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra depth.
• Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more vegetables.
• Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate; bake fresh in the morning to save time.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use other types of bread?

Absolutely. Sturdy breads like French, sourdough, or even a good quality sandwich bread work well. Avoid very soft or thin bread as it may become too soggy.

Holiday Breakfast Casserole: A Festive and Hearty Dish Recipe

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This Holiday Breakfast Casserole is a festive and hearty dish perfect for holiday mornings or special occasions. Loaded with eggs, bread, cheese, and optional meats and vegetables, it offers a flavorful and comforting start to your day. The casserole is soaked in a savory egg mixture and baked to golden perfection, making it easy to prepare ahead and serve warm with a fresh herb garnish.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Casserole:

• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 6 cups cubed bread (such as French bread or sourdough)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup cooked sausage or bacon, crumbled (optional)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Evenly layer the cubed bread across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the bread. If using, add the cooked sausage or bacon, diced bell peppers, and chopped spinach or kale. Pour the egg mixture evenly over all the ingredients, ensuring the bread is well soaked.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the assembled casserole to rest for about 15 minutes at room temperature so the bread absorbs the egg mixture thoroughly.
5. Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is fully set and the top is lightly golden.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses.
• Using day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
• To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage or bacon and add extra vegetables or cheese.
• The casserole can be prepared the night before; refrigerate covered before baking in the morning.
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave before serving.

Keywords: holiday breakfast casserole, breakfast casserole recipe, festive breakfast, baked egg casserole, easy breakfast bake, savory breakfast