Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

Christmas morning can get busy fast, especially when everyone is hungry and there’s a lot to do. This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is a delicious way to bring everyone to the table without juggling several pans. It’s packed with savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and bread baked until golden.

What makes this recipe special is how easily it fits into your holiday plans. Prepare it ahead, pop it in the oven, and enjoy a cozy breakfast while the family opens presents or catches up over coffee.

Whether you’re hosting Christmas brunch or keeping breakfast simple at home, this casserole is a comforting dish worth adding to your holiday menu. Read on for the ingredients, easy instructions, and tips to make it just right.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Make-ahead friendly: Assemble it on Christmas Eve for an easier morning.

Hearty and satisfying: Eggs, sausage, bread, and cheese make a filling breakfast.

Festive colors: Red bell peppers and fresh green herbs add a holiday touch.

Great for a crowd: One baking dish serves the whole family.

Ingredients

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (about 6–8 slices)
• 1 pound (450 g) breakfast sausage
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ green bell pepper, diced
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter or oil, for cooking
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional

How to make Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Cook the sausage and vegetables

Heat the butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles. Add the onion and bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Step 2: Layer the ingredients

Grease a 9 × 13-inch (23 × 33 cm) baking dish. Spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom. Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture, then sprinkle the cheddar cheese over everything.

Step 3: Prepare the egg mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the bread, sausage, and cheese so the bread can absorb the liquid.

Step 4: Refrigerate overnight

Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This gives the bread time to soak up the egg mixture and helps the casserole bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake until golden

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and bake for 45–60 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden. If the casserole was refrigerated overnight, allow a little extra baking time if needed. Check that the center reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 6: Rest and serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with your favorite Christmas breakfast sides.

Tips for the best casserole

Use slightly stale bread: It absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too mushy.

Prep it on Christmas Eve: Keep the assembled casserole covered in the refrigerator until baking.

Change the filling: Cooked bacon or diced ham can replace the sausage. You can also add spinach or mushrooms.

Make it extra cheesy: Reserve a little cheddar to sprinkle over the top before baking.

Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate within 2 hours in an airtight container and enjoy within 3–4 days. Reheat portions to 165°F (74°C).

What to serve with it

Pair this casserole with fresh fruit, cinnamon rolls, yogurt, or coffee for an easy holiday breakfast spread. For a bigger brunch, add pancakes or a simple fruit salad.