This Festive Christmas Morning Casserole is the perfect dish to kick off your holiday celebrations. Packed with savory flavors and a touch of seasonal spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will fill your home with the warmth of the season.
Ground breakfast sausage brings a hearty, savory base to the casserole, adding depth and richness. The combination of red bell pepper and green bell pepper not only provides a festive pop of color but also adds a sweet and slightly crunchy texture. Onion is included to balance the flavors with its mild sweetness and aroma. Sharp cheddar cheese is essential for its tangy, robust flavor that melts beautifully into the dish. Eggs and whole milk form the custard that binds everything together, ensuring each bite is creamy and satisfying. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the overall flavor profile, while a dash of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that’s perfect for the holidays. White bread acts as a canvas, absorbing the rich egg mixture and providing structure. Finally, a sprinkle of parsley brings a fresh finish to the dish.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a simple side of sautéed greens. For drinks, consider serving with a spiced apple cider or a festive mimosa to keep the holiday spirit alive.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground breakfast sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat, as we don’t want a greasy casserole.
Next, add the diced red and green bell peppers, and chopped onion to the sausage. Cook them together until the vegetables are softened — this should take around 5 minutes.
Now, take a 9x13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly. Line the bottom with half of the white bread slices. Spread the cooked sausage and pepper mixture evenly over this bread layer. Then, sprinkle half of the sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
Layer the remaining bread slices on top of the cheese. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg. Pour this egg mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring the bread soaks it up well.
Top everything with the rest of the cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake it for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once it's done, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top before serving.
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