Oh, there’s just something magical about waking up on Christmas morning, isn’t there? The smell of fresh pine from the tree, the sound of wrapping paper rustling, and the joyous laughter of family filling the air. One of my favorite traditions is putting together this *Christmas morning casserole*. It’s not only hearty and delicious, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, letting me spend more time with my loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like serving a warm, cheesy casserole that everyone can dig into while sipping on hot cocoa or coffee.
I remember one year when we made this casserole, the kids were so excited to open their gifts that they could hardly sit still at the table. But once they took a bite of this creamy, cheesy goodness packed with ham and veggies, all the chatter stopped, and the only sound was the happy munching. It was a moment I’ll cherish forever! So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd, you’ve found it! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this mouthwatering *Christmas morning casserole*. I promise, it’s simple and satisfying!
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed (I like to use a hearty sourdough or French bread for extra flavor!)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole milk gives it the best richness, but you can use any kind you prefer)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is my go-to, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack)
- 1 cup diced ham (or swap in cooked sausage if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (I love using a mix of colors for a festive touch)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Trust me, these ingredients come together to create a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends on Christmas morning!
How to Prepare the *Christmas Morning Casserole*
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this *Christmas morning casserole*! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the end result is so worth it. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to impress your family!
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want your casserole to bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Trust me, this is the base that’s going to hold all those yummy ingredients together!
- Now, gently fold in the cubed bread, shredded cheese, diced ham, chopped bell peppers, and onions into the egg mixture. Make sure everything is coated well—this is where all the flavors mingle, so don’t rush it!
- Once it’s all mixed together, pour the entire mixture into a greased baking dish (I like to use a 9×13 inch dish for this). Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
- Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden and slightly crispy. Oh, that smell will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, I promise!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This little resting period helps everything firm up nicely and makes it easier to cut into squares.
And there you have it! A warm, cheesy, and hearty casserole, perfect for your Christmas morning feast. Just be ready for the compliments to roll in—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about some tips to ensure your *Christmas morning casserole* turns out perfectly every single time! I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that I’m excited to share with you.
- Prep Ahead: If you want to save time on Christmas morning (who doesn’t?), you can prepare this casserole the night before! Just mix everything and pour it into the greased baking dish, then cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, all you have to do is bake it—easy peasy!
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have ham? No worries! You can easily substitute it with cooked sausage or even leave it out for a vegetarian version. Adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach can be a delicious addition too!
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to get creative with your cheese! A combination of cheeses like gouda or feta can add a whole new dimension of flavor. Yum!
- Spice it Up: If you and your family enjoy a little heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mix. It’ll give your casserole a nice kick!
- Don’t Rush the Rest: I can’t stress this enough—let your casserole sit for those 10 minutes after baking. It really helps it hold its shape when you cut into it, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a *Christmas morning casserole* that not only looks amazing but tastes incredible too. I can’t wait for you to try it out!
Why You’ll Love This *Christmas Morning Casserole*
- Hearty and Satisfying: This casserole is packed with protein and flavor, making it the perfect way to start your festive day!
- Quick to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have more time to enjoy the holiday festivities.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it the night before to save time and stress on Christmas morning. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy!
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and fun mix-ins make this a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings! It’s a dish that everyone can dig into, making it a great centerpiece for your holiday breakfast.
- Customizable: You can switch out ingredients based on your family’s preferences—whether it’s different meats, veggies, or cheeses.
- Comfort Food: There’s nothing like a warm, delicious casserole to cozy up to on a chilly Christmas morning!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! While I love indulging in this *Christmas morning casserole*, I also like to keep an eye on what I’m serving to my family. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any substitutions you make. But don’t worry too much about the numbers—what matters most is that this casserole is a delicious way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends!
Serving Suggestions
To make your *Christmas morning casserole* even more special, I love to pair it with a few delightful accompaniments that enhance the meal experience. Here are some of my favorites:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and apples adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. Plus, it looks so festive on the table!
- Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: For the meat lovers in your family, a side of crispy bacon or savory sausage links can take the breakfast spread to the next level. The salty crunch pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole.
- Warm Croissants or Pastries: If you want to add a touch of elegance, serve some warm croissants or flaky pastries. They’re perfect for nibbling alongside the casserole and add a lovely buttery flavor.
- Hot Cocoa or Coffee: A cozy drink is a must on Christmas morning! I love serving rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or a steaming cup of coffee to keep everyone warm and happy.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle of pure maple syrup over individual servings of the casserole can add a sweet touch that complements the savory flavors. It’s a little indulgence that everyone will appreciate!
With these delicious sides, your *Christmas morning casserole* will shine even brighter on the holiday breakfast table. Enjoy the cozy vibes and the joyful company of your loved ones!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delightful *Christmas morning casserole*, and now you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy the deliciousness for days to come.
First off, let the casserole cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can make it soggy (yikes!).
- Storing Leftovers: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Just make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep all that cheesy goodness fresh!
- Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the casserole! Cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. It should keep well for up to 2 months. Just don’t forget to label them with the date so you know when you made it!
Now, when it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that flavor and texture just right:
- Reheating in the Oven: This is my favorite method! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole (or individual portions) in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20–25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1–2 minutes, checking to see if it’s hot enough and stirring if needed. Just watch out, as microwaves can sometimes make it a bit rubbery if you overdo it!
With these tips, you can savor your *Christmas morning casserole* even after the holiday festivities. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite, and let the memories of Christmas mornings linger a little longer!
FAQ Section
Got questions about the *Christmas morning casserole*? No problem! I’m here to help with some of the most common queries I’ve come across. Let’s make sure you’re all set for your holiday breakfast!
Can I make this casserole a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, I often prepare it the night before to save time on Christmas morning. Just follow the steps, pour everything into the baking dish, cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. In the morning, you can bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed!
What can I use instead of ham?
If ham isn’t your thing, don’t worry! You can easily swap it for cooked sausage, crumbled bacon, or even leave it out for a vegetarian version. Adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach can also be a great way to pack in more flavor!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
You bet! Just let the casserole cool completely, then cut it into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. Just label them with the date, so you know when you made them!
How do I reheat the casserole?
There are a couple of great ways to reheat your leftovers! For the best texture, I recommend using the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil, and heat for about 20–25 minutes. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover a portion with a damp paper towel and heat for 1–2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s hot throughout.
What type of bread works best?
For this casserole, I love using a hearty sourdough or French bread, as they add a lovely flavor and texture. But you can use any bread you have on hand—just make sure it’s not too soft or fresh, as a firmer bread holds up better in the casserole!
Can I add veggies to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with the veggies. You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini. Just make sure to chop them finely and consider sautéing them first to reduce excess moisture. It’ll add extra nutrition and flavor!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it’s set in the middle and the top is golden brown. You can also insert a knife in the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Just keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
I hope these FAQs help clear up any questions you might have. Enjoy preparing your *Christmas morning casserole*, and get ready for a cozy, delicious start to your holiday celebrations!
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Christmas Morning Casserole: 7 Comforting Family Favorites
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and delicious casserole perfect for Christmas morning.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Add bread cubes, cheese, ham, bell peppers, and onions to the egg mixture.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until set and golden brown.
Notes
- Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
- Can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.
- Substitute sausage for ham if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: christmas morning casserole
