Christmas Morning Casserole

Celebrate the joy of Christmas morning with a delightful casserole that’s perfect for the whole family. This Christmas Morning Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will make your holiday breakfast unforgettable. Combining eggs, bread, cheese, and a selection of breakfast meats, this dish is sure to become a new holiday tradition!

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (Italian or French, cubed)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread with the sausage, ham, bell peppers, and onion. Toss them together until evenly mixed.
2. Make the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, dried mustard, and paprika until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and meat mixture. Gently stir until all the bread is soaked and the ingredients are well combined. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the egg mixture.
4. Add Cheese: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a handful for topping.
5. Bake the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it. Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Finish Baking: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole:

• For a vegetarian option, swap the meats for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
• Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Feel free to customize by adding your favorite ingredients, such as different cheeses or vegetables.

This Christmas Morning Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a way to bring everyone together and start the holiday with love and laughter. Enjoy your festive breakfast!