Christmas morning is a magical time filled with joy, excitement, and the promise of a wonderful day ahead. One of the best ways to start this special day is with a delicious and hearty breakfast. And what better way to do that than with a make - ahead breakfast casserole? This dish not only saves you time on the big day but also ensures that you can enjoy a scrumptious meal with your loved ones without having to spend hours in the kitchen.
Let's first talk about the benefits of a make - ahead breakfast casserole. On Christmas morning, there are so many things to do - from opening presents to getting ready for the day. Having a pre - made casserole in the fridge means you can simply pop it in the oven and focus on the more important aspects of the holiday. It's also a great option for feeding a large crowd. Whether you have family members visiting or friends dropping by, this casserole can easily be adjusted to serve more people.
Now, let's get into the recipe. You'll need a few basic ingredients. For the base, you'll want some day - old bread. The staler the bread, the better it will absorb the other flavors in the casserole. Cut the bread into cubes and spread them evenly in a greased baking dish. This will form the foundation of your casserole and give it a nice, hearty texture.
Next, it's time to prepare the egg mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together several eggs. The number of eggs will depend on the size of your casserole dish and how many people you're serving. As a general rule, you can use about 6 - 8 eggs for a medium - sized dish. Along with the eggs, add some milk or cream. This will make the eggs creamy and rich. You can also add a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs, such as thyme or parsley, to enhance the flavor.
Once the egg mixture is ready, pour it over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Make sure all the bread is well - soaked. This is where the magic happens - as the casserole bakes, the bread will soak up the egg mixture and become soft and delicious.
Now, it's time to add some toppings. You can get creative here and use whatever ingredients you like. Some popular options include cooked bacon or sausage, diced ham, shredded cheese, and fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Sprinkle these toppings evenly over the egg - soaked bread. The combination of the savory meats, the gooey cheese, and the fresh vegetables will take your casserole to the next level.
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture. When you wake up on Christmas morning, simply remove the plastic wrap, preheat your oven, and bake the casserole according to the recipe instructions. Usually, it takes about 30 - 40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for the casserole to be cooked through and golden brown on top.
As the casserole bakes, the aroma will fill your kitchen and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. When it's done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it with a side of fresh fruit, a cup of coffee, or a glass of orange juice. It's the perfect start to a Christmas morning.
In conclusion, a make - ahead breakfast casserole is a must - have for Christmas morning. It's easy to prepare, delicious to eat, and a great way to bring your family and friends together. So, this Christmas, skip the hassle of a complicated breakfast and opt for this simple yet amazing casserole. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you!