Holiday Breakfast Casserole

When you are hosting a holiday gathering and need to feed a large group of people in the morning, having a delicious and easy breakfast option is essential. An Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd is the perfect solution to ensure a stress-free morning while still impressing your guests. This make-ahead dish allows you to prepare everything the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and serve a warm and satisfying meal that will please everyone.

With layers of bread, eggs, cheese, and savory ingredients, this breakfast casserole is not only flavorful but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic ham and cheese combination or want to add some vegetables for a healthier twist, this recipe can be adapted to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.

In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, the steps to prepare this delicious casserole, some variations to try, helpful tips for a successful outcome, and answer some common questions to ensure your Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

For this Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd, you will need the following ingredients:

– 12 slices of bread, cubed

– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 pound of cooked breakfast sausage

– 1 diced onion

– 1 diced bell pepper

– 10 eggs

– 3 cups of milk

– 1 teaspoon of salt

– 1 teaspoon of pepper

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on the number of people you are serving and any personal preferences you may have.

Steps

To prepare the Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd, follow these simple steps:

1. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes, half of the cooked sausage, half of the cheese, half of the onion, and half of the bell pepper.

2. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.

5. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight.

6. In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

7. Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 45-50 minutes or until set and golden brown.

8. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

This casserole can be served hot with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a complete breakfast spread.

Variations

There are endless possibilities to customize your Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd:

– Swap the breakfast sausage for cooked bacon or ham for a different flavor profile.

– Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes for a vegetarian option.

– Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, feta, or pepper jack.

– Incorporate herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, or red pepper flakes for added depth of flavor.

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and tailor the casserole to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.

Tips

Here are some tips to ensure your Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd turns out perfectly:

– Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.

– Grease the baking dish well to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

– Let the casserole sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

– Cover the casserole with foil if the top is browning too quickly during baking.

Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious and satisfying breakfast dish that will impress your guests.

Conclusion

Preparing an Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd is a convenient and delicious way to start your holiday morning. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a customizable nature, this dish is sure to become a staple in your holiday menu rotation.

Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or a festive brunch with friends, this make-ahead casserole allows you to spend more time enjoying the company of your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd?

A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: How long can I keep the leftovers?

A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for a quick and easy meal.

Q: Can I prepare the casserole without meat?

A: Absolutely! Simply omit the breakfast sausage or substitute it with your favorite meat alternative or additional vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients and prepare a delicious Overnight Holiday Breakfast Casserole for a Crowd that will make your holiday morning memorable!