Christmas mornings in our house have always been filled with joy and the irresistible aroma of this delicious sausage casserole baking in the oven. The tradition of preparing this casserole the night before and baking it in the morning has been a cherished ritual, bringing everyone to the table with eager anticipation. The rich, savory blend of sausage, eggs, cheese, and a hint of mustard has become synonymous with the holiday, creating a comforting and heartwarming start to the festivities. Every bite, with its crispy edges and gooey, cheesy center, is a delightful reminder of family gatherings and festive celebrations.
One of my earliest memories is helping my mom prepare this casserole on Christmas Eve. We would brown the sausage together, mix it with the other ingredients, and pour it into the baking dish. The waiting overnight as it chilled in the refrigerator only built the excitement for the next morning. The smell of it baking in the oven was the first thing that greeted us on Christmas Day, making the house feel even more festive. It’s not just a meal but a tradition that has been passed down and one that I look forward to continuing with my own family.
As my children have grown, they’ve joined in the preparation, making this dish a collaborative family effort. Seeing their enthusiasm and anticipation brings back fond memories of my own childhood. The casserole has evolved slightly with each generation, as we’ve added our personal touches and preferences, but the core essence remains the same. This tradition not only fills our bellies but also our hearts, creating lasting memories that we will cherish for years to come.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground pork sausage
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 eggs, beaten
2 cups milk
6 slices white bread, toasted and cut into cubes
8 ounces mild Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
Cook the Sausage: In a medium skillet, crumble and cook the sausage over medium heat until evenly browned. Drain the fat.
Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine mustard powder, salt, beaten eggs, and milk. Add the cooked sausage, bread cubes, and shredded cheese, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Chill the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole and bake for 45 to 60 minutes. Uncover, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C), and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until set.
Variations and Substitutions:
Bread Choices: Substitute white bread with whole grain, sourdough, or gluten-free bread to suit your preference.
Cheese Variations: Use sharp Cheddar, Swiss, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: Include chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach to add color and nutrition.
Meat Substitutions: Swap pork sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or a vegetarian sausage for dietary needs.
Spices and Herbs: Add herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to enhance the flavor. A dash of paprika or cayenne can also add a subtle heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Lower Fat Version: Opt for low-fat sausage, reduced-fat cheese, and skim milk to make a lighter version of this casserole without compromising the taste.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this casserole with a side of fresh fruit salad, yogurt, or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Why This Recipe Is a Hit:
This casserole is a hit for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare ahead of time, making Christmas morning less stressful and more enjoyable. The overnight chilling allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious, cohesive dish. The combination of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheese over toasted bread creates a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Additionally, its versatility makes it a reliable favorite for holiday breakfasts. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs, whether by changing the type of bread, cheese, or adding vegetables. The ability to prepare it the night before means more time spent with loved ones on Christmas morning, rather than in the kitchen. The aroma that fills the house as it bakes is enough to draw everyone to the table, making it a wonderful start to the holiday celebrations.
The casserole’s ability to be customized ensures it never gets old; you can experiment with different ingredients to keep it interesting year after year. It’s also a great dish to bring to holiday potlucks or family gatherings, as it transports well and can be reheated easily. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole is sure to become a beloved part of your holiday traditions, just as it has in our family.
