Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

Sausage: Provides a savory and flavorful base for the casserole.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.

Milk: Adds creaminess and helps to set the casserole.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground mustard: Adds a subtle tangy flavor to the dish.

Bread: Forms the base layer and adds texture.

Cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, delicious topping.

When preparing the bread cubes, make sure they are slightly stale or toasted. This helps them absorb the egg mixture better, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful casserole. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, to add a unique twist to the dish.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of breakfast sausage.

• cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage provides a plant-based option while maintaining a similar texture and flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Egg substitutes are ideal for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.

• eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Silken tofu can be blended to create a similar consistency to eggs and is a good vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk provides a creamy texture similar to cow's milk and is suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct replacement and may offer a slightly different mineral content.

• ground mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor and is often readily available.

• ground mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can be used in a pinch and will still add a mustard flavor, though slightly milder.

• cubed bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: Gluten-free bread is perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

• cubed bread - Substitute with sourdough bread: Sourdough bread adds a tangy flavor and a slightly different texture to the casserole.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and offers a milder flavor.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese is a dairy-free option that can still provide a cheesy flavor and texture.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you prefer to store individual portions, cut the casserole into squares and place them in airtight containers. This makes it easy to grab a quick breakfast during busy mornings.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap the entire dish or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the casserole with the date before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating individual portions, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
• To keep the casserole moist while reheating, cover it with aluminum foil during the first half of the reheating process, then remove the foil to allow the top to crisp up.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures the casserole remains moist and the cheese stays melty.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the eggs rubbery.

• If you prefer a crispy top, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the casserole on a toaster oven-safe tray and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese and bread cubes.

• For stovetop reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the skillet. Place a portion of the casserole in the skillet, cover with a lid, and heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives a slightly crispy bottom while keeping the top moist.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the casserole in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method provides a quick and crispy reheating option.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Medium bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and ground mustard.

• Whisk: Essential for mixing the egg mixture thoroughly.

• 9x13 inch baking dish: The container where you will layer the bread cubes, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese, and pour the egg mixture over.

• Grease or cooking spray: Used to coat the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the milk and shredded cheese accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and ground mustard precisely.

• Knife: For cubing the bread slices.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the bread into cubes.

• Spatula: Useful for spreading the layers evenly in the baking dish.

• Timer: To keep track of the 45-minute baking time and the 10-minute resting period.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook and crumble the sausage the night before.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

Pre-cube the bread: Cube the bread in advance and store it in an airtight container.

Mix egg mixture in advance: Whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and ground mustard the night before and refrigerate.

Assemble the night before: Layer the bread cubes, sausage, and cheese in the baking dish and pour the egg mixture over it. Cover and refrigerate overnight.