Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

Breakfast sausage: Adds a savory and hearty flavor to the casserole.

Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Dry mustard: Adds a subtle tangy flavor.

Bread cubes: Give the casserole its body and texture.

Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor.

When cooking the sausage, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces as it browns. This ensures that the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the casserole, giving each bite a consistent flavor. Additionally, allowing the bread cubes to soak in the egg mixture for a few minutes before baking can help the casserole achieve a more cohesive texture.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with turkey sausage: Lower in fat and calories, but still provides a similar flavor and texture.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Ideal for a vegetarian option while maintaining the savory taste.

• eggs - Substitute with egg substitute: Suitable for those with egg allergies or for a lower cholesterol option.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: A vegan alternative that mimics the binding properties of eggs.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free option that works well in casseroles.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Another dairy-free alternative that adds a slightly sweet flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Adds a different depth of flavor and umami, but use less to avoid overpowering the dish.

• salt - Substitute with herb seasoning blend: Provides flavor without the sodium.

• dry mustard - Substitute with prepared mustard: Use a bit more to account for the milder flavor.

• dry mustard - Substitute with horseradish: Adds a similar tangy and spicy note.

• bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• bread - Substitute with hash browns: Adds a different texture and flavor while still providing a starchy base.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella: A milder cheese that melts well.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: A vegan option that provides a cheesy flavor.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread cubes soggy.
• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, portion the casserole into individual servings. Wrap each serving tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This method helps in easy reheating and prevents freezer burn.
• Label the freezer bags with the date and contents to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches the desired temperature.
• If reheating from frozen, cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes 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. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

• 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 another plate to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• On the stovetop, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the casserole in the skillet, cover with a lid, and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

• Skillet: Used to cook the sausage over medium heat until evenly browned.

• Mixing bowl: Used to beat the eggs and mix in the milk, salt, dry mustard, bread cubes, cheese, and cooked sausage.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix the ingredients in the mixing bowl.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and shredded cheddar cheese.

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

• Knife: Used to cube the bread and check if the casserole is done by inserting it into the center.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cube the bread.

• 9x13 inch baking dish: Used to pour the mixture into and bake the casserole.

• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) and used to bake the casserole.

• Spatula: Used to stir the ingredients in the mixing bowl and to transfer the cooked sausage.

• Grease brush: Used to grease the baking dish before pouring in the mixture.

Cook sausage in advance: Prepare and cook the sausage the night before. Store it in the fridge to save time in the morning.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to cut down on prep time.

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

Mix ingredients ahead: Combine eggs, milk, salt, and dry mustard in a bowl the night before. Store in the fridge and add the rest in the morning.

Grease the baking dish: Grease the baking dish ahead of time to streamline assembly.