Christmas Breakfast Sausage Casserole Recipe

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

Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the dish.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Dry mustard: Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.

Bread: Cubed to provide a base and absorb the egg mixture.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded to add a gooey, cheesy element.

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 balanced flavor. Additionally, allowing the bread cubes to soak in the egg mixture for a few minutes before baking will help them absorb more flavor and create a cohesive texture.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be seasoned to mimic the flavors of breakfast sausage.

• breakfast sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage provides a plant-based alternative while maintaining a similar texture and flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg to create a vegan alternative that helps bind the casserole.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in casseroles and has a mild flavor.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is another dairy-free alternative that has a creamy texture similar to cow's milk.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

• dry mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: Gluten-free bread is a suitable alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

• bread - Substitute with hash browns: Hash browns can add a different texture and flavor, making the casserole heartier.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese has a milder flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese provides a dairy-free option while still offering a cheesy flavor and texture.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread cubes soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. Cut it into individual portions for easy reheating. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This method helps to prevent freezer burn and makes it convenient to reheat only what you need.

• Label the containers with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor of the sausage and cheese.

• Reheat the thawed casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

• For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

• If you prefer a crispy top, you can uncover the casserole during the last few minutes of reheating in the oven or give it a quick broil.

• 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, and bake for about 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, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Check and stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a crispy top, use the broiler. First, reheat the casserole in the microwave for 1-2 minutes to warm it through. Then, place it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

• For those with an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place a portion of the casserole in the air fryer basket, and heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.

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

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

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and other ingredients accurately.

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

• Cutting board: Used to cube the bread slices.

• Knife: Used to cut the bread into cubes.

• Baking dish: A 9x13 inch dish used to bake the casserole.

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

• Spatula: Used to stir the sausage while cooking and to mix the ingredients in the bowl.

• Cheese grater: Used to shred the cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Cook the sausage the night before and store it in the fridge.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

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

Mix and refrigerate: Combine all ingredients the night before and refrigerate. Just pour into the baking dish and bake in the morning.

Use a food processor: Quickly beat the eggs and mix the milk and seasonings using a food processor.