Christmas Morning Casserole
🕒 Total Time: 9 hours 45 minutes
🥣 Prep Time: 9 hours
🍳 Cook Time: 45 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 12
Description:
Originating from the beloved Cooking in the West with WAASCOE cookbook, this Christmas Morning Casserole has become a cherished tradition in many families. A perfect dish to start your holiday festivities, this casserole is also delightful any time of the year. Prepare to be enchanted by its cheesy, hearty goodness!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 12 | eggs |
| 3/4 | cup milk |
| 1 | pound bulk sausage |
| 1 | can cream of mushroom soup |
| 6 | slices bread |
| 1 | cup shredded cheese |
| Butter (for bread) | |
| Mushrooms (optional) |
Instructions:
-
Preparation:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, milk, and cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
- If using mushrooms, add them to the egg mixture.
-
Assembling the Casserole:
- Spray or grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Remove the crust from the bread slices, then butter one side of each slice.
- Arrange the buttered bread slices, butter side down, in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring they are well coated.
- Top the egg mixture with the bulk sausage, distributing it evenly across the pan.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sausage layer.
-
Chill Overnight:
- Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a richer flavor and texture.
-
Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
- Once the oven is ready, bake the casserole for approximately 45 minutes, or until the center is set and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve alongside your favorite breakfast sides.
Additional Tips:
- For an extra indulgent touch, consider using homemade French bread for the casserole base.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to suit your preferences. Some enthusiasts recommend adding a little extra cheese for an irresistibly gooey finish!
- If you’re a fan of mushrooms, don’t hesitate to add more than the recipe calls for.
- This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.
Prepare to make cherished memories around the breakfast table with this delightful Christmas Morning Casserole. Whether it’s a special holiday treat or a weekday indulgence, this comforting dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household too!
