As the festive season approaches and the scent of cinnamon wafts through the air, the anticipation of a cozy holiday morning fills my heart. It’s that special time of year when families gather around the table, creating memories to last a lifetime. The centerpiece of our celebratory breakfast? A scrumptious Christmas Breakfast Casserole that combines gooey cheese, flaky croissants, and savory ham, all kissed by the colors and flavors of fresh peppers.
This dish not only satisfies those sweet holiday cravings, but it also eases the hustle of morning prep. Just picture it: a golden, fluffy casserole pulled from the oven, bubbling with deliciousness and ready to be shared with loved ones. It’s the perfect way to start Christmas Day, whether you’re hosting a bustling brunch or enjoying a quiet morning with family. With easy preparation and family-friendly ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this recipe year after year. Let’s dive into building this delicious holiday tradition!
Why is Christmas Breakfast Casserole a Must-Make?
Culinary Comfort: This breakfast casserole is a warm embrace on a chilly holiday morning, combining comforting flavors that everyone adores.
Effortless Prep: With simple steps, you can prepare a hearty meal without stress, leaving you more time to enjoy family.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Made to serve a group, this dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing everyone to the table.
Customizable: Want to cater to dietary preferences? Switch up the ingredients easily, from ham to vegetarian options ensure that you can make it ahead and enjoy the morning with less hassle.
Festive Presentation: Golden and fluffy, this casserole not only tastes great but looks stunning, making it a feast for the eyes as well!
Christmas Breakfast Casserole Ingredients
For the Base
• Croissants – They provide a rich, buttery texture that forms the heart of the casserole.
• Olive Oil – For sautéing vegetables; canola oil is a great substitute if needed.
• Medium Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
• Red Bell Pepper – This ingredient brings sweetness and vibrant color; yellow or orange bell pepper can work too.
• Green Bell Pepper – Provides earthiness; feel free to omit if desired.
For the Flavor
• Deli Ham – Adds savory flavor and protein; swap with cooked bacon or sausage, or omit for a vegetarian option.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular table salt can be used but should be pared back.
• Black Pepper – Gives a hint of heat; white pepper can be used for a less visible seasoning.
• Fresh Thyme – Offers lovely herbaceous notes; dried thyme is an acceptable substitute at 1/3 the amount.
For the Creamy Filling
• Large Eggs – They bind everything together; for a vegan version, consider flax eggs or a commercial egg substitute.
• Milk – Adds creaminess; almond milk or other non-dairy milk can replace it.
• Half-and-Half – Enhances richness; you can use milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for extra decadence.
• Hot Sauce – Adds a flavorful kick; you can omit or replace it with a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
For the Cheesy Topping
• Grated White Cheddar Cheese – Delivers sharp flavor; mozzarella or Gruyère also makes for a lovely substitute.
• Grated Pepper Jack Cheese – Adds a delightful spice; you can substitute with Monterey Jack or simply omit for a milder taste.
Embrace the joy of holiday cooking with this Christmas Breakfast Casserole that’s not just a meal, but a cherished tradition!
How to Make Christmas Breakfast Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F, allowing it to warm up while you prepare the casserole. This ensures an even cooking environment for that perfect golden brown top.
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Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Watch for their vibrant colors to shine and release their delicious aroma.
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Stir in the diced deli ham, then season with kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, mixing until everything is nicely coated and fragrant.
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Whisk together in a bowl the milk, half-and-half, eggs, and a few dashes of hot sauce until well-combined. This creamy mixture will bind all the delicious ingredients together.
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Layer the croissant pieces in a greased baking dish, ensuring they cover the bottom evenly. Then pour the egg mixture over the croissants, followed by distributing the sautéed veggies and ham, and finally sprinkle the cheese on top.
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Chill the assembled casserole in the fridge for 1 hour to allow the croissants to absorb the egg mixture, making it fluffy and delightful when baked.
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Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes or until it’s set in the center and beautifully golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it to prevent excess browning!
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Cool slightly before serving, then enjoy with fresh fruit salad and festive drinks for a truly magical morning experience.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Breakfast Casserole
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Chill Time Matters: Allowing the casserole to sit in the fridge for an hour is essential for proper absorption, ensuring a fluffy and delightful texture.
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Salt Savvy: If using ham or bacon, taste and adjust the salt levels carefully to avoid an overly salty casserole that can overshadow the other flavors.
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Bake Watch: Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes; you want a golden brown top, not over-browning, which can lead to a dry texture.
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Customization Joy: Feel free to experiment with ingredient substitutions based on your family’s preferences, making this Christmas Breakfast Casserole truly your own.
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Layering Technique: When layering your casserole, try to distribute the cheese and sautéed ingredients evenly for balanced bites in every serving!
Christmas Breakfast Casserole Variations
Get ready to make this festive dish truly your own with these delightful twists that bring excitement to every bite!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a healthy, meat-free option that’s bursting with flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to heat things up, creating a zesty surprise in each forkful.
- Sweet & Savory: Mix in some chopped sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the savory elements.
- Cheese Burst: Swap the cheddar for creamy goat cheese or feta to introduce a tangy twist that will elevate your casserole.
- Herb Medley: Try using fresh rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a beautiful aromatic change that complements the dish wonderfully.
- Croissant Swap: Use leftover holiday bread or brioche instead of croissants for a fluffy texture and slightly different flavor profile.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk and half-and-half with coconut or almond yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in diced zucchini or sweet bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition, making this dish even more wholesome.
Feel free to let your creativity shine and transform this casserole into a family favorite each holiday season!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Breakfast Casserole preparations are a time-saver for the busy holiday season! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can sauté the vegetables and ham up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to complete the dish. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour your mixture over the croissants and let it sit for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This way, your Christmas morning will be stress-free, filled with warmth and togetherness, ensuring your casserole is just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Thawing: To prepare, thaw in the fridge overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the oven for even warming, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.
What to Serve with Christmas Breakfast Casserole?
Start your festive morning with delightful pairings that enhance the joy of the season and complement this hearty casserole.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of red and green fruits brightens up your plate, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the rich casserole.
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Cranberry Mimosas: Sparkling and festive, these drinks add a touch of cheer and complement the flavors of the casserole in a delightful way.
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Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Warm, gooey, and bursting with sweet cinnamon, these muffins harmonize beautifully with the savory elements of the casserole.
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Maple-Glazed Bacon: Crispy, sweet, and smoky, this side brings an irresistible crunch that perfectly complements the soft texture of the casserole.
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Yogurt Parfaits: Layered with granola and berries, these add a creamy, fruity layer to your breakfast table, ideal for balancing out the savory casserole.
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Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate station with various toppings like whipped cream and peppermint sticks, creating a cozy finish to your festive brunch.
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Herbed Toast: Slices of toasted baguette topped with fresh herbs or garlic butter provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with the casserole.
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Sautéed Greens: Lightly seasoned and sautéed, greens such as spinach or kale add a gorgeous pop of color and a nutritious element to the meal.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of croissants should I use for the casserole?
For the best results, use fresh, buttery croissants to create a rich texture. Day-old croissants work well too, as they can absorb the egg mixture better, leading to a fluffier casserole.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can keep leftover Christmas Breakfast Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until piping hot and enjoy!
Can I freeze the Christmas Breakfast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
What’s the best way to thaw and bake a frozen casserole?
To prepare your frozen casserole, simply transfer it to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Then, bake as directed, but keep an eye on the cooking time and add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through properly.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
Very! To create a vegetarian version of the Christmas Breakfast Casserole, omit the ham and consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other favorite vegetables. You can also incorporate a plant-based meat substitute if desired!
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
I often make adjustments for different dietary needs! For dairy-free or low-lactose options, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk and dairy-free cheese options. Omit the hot sauce if you prefer a milder flavor or if spicy food is a concern for guests.
Irresistible Christmas Breakfast Casserole for Festive Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F, allowing it to warm up while you prepare the casserole.
- Sauté the diced onion and bell peppers in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the diced deli ham, then season with kosher salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Whisk together in a bowl the milk, half-and-half, eggs, and a few dashes of hot sauce until well-combined.
- Layer the croissant pieces in a greased baking dish, pour the egg mixture over, distribute the sautéed veggies and ham, and sprinkle cheese on top.
- Chill the assembled casserole in the fridge for 1 hour.
- Bake the casserole for about 45 minutes or until it’s set in the center and beautifully golden brown on top.
- Cool slightly before serving and enjoy with fresh fruit salad and festive drinks.