Christmas Breakfast Casserole – A Festive & Flavorful Holiday Morning Dish

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like waking up on Christmas morning to the comforting aroma of a Christmas Breakfast Casserole baking in the oven. This delicious, hearty dish is the perfect way to bring the family together before the holiday festivities begin. Featuring flaky croissants, savory ham, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned eggs, this Christmas Breakfast Casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

If you’re looking for a make-ahead breakfast casserole that allows you to spend more time with loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen, this recipe is the perfect solution. In this guide, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making the perfect Christmas Breakfast Casserole, tips for customization, and why it’s the ideal dish for your holiday morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the night before and simply bake in the morning.
• Full of Flavor: A combination of ham, cheese, and buttery croissants creates a rich and indulgent dish.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for serving family and friends.
• Customizable: Easily switch up ingredients based on preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Christmas Breakfast Casserole

To create this perfect holiday casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and preventing sticking.
• 8 oz. deli chicken ham, diced – Adds a smoky, savory element to the dish.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Brings depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – A pop of color and mild sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Balances the flavors with a hint of bitterness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a gentle heat.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped – Infuses a festive and earthy taste.
• 6 croissants, cut into 1 1/2- to 2-inch pieces – Buttery and flaky, they absorb the egg mixture beautifully.
• 1 cup milk – Ensures a creamy texture.
• 3/4 cup half-and-half – Adds richness and depth.
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional) – A little kick for those who love spice.
• 5 large eggs – The key binding ingredient that holds the casserole together.
• 2 cups grated white cheddar cheese, divided – Provides a melty, cheesy consistency.
• 1 cup grated pepper jack cheese, divided – Adds a mild heat and extra cheesiness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Ham

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken ham, onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 8 to 10 minutes.
4. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh thyme. Cook for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Croissants

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Spread the croissant pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, half-and-half, hot sauce (if using), and eggs until well combined.
2. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the white cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the pepper jack cheese into the egg mixture.
3. Add the sautéed ham and vegetable mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Pour the combined mixture over the croissant pieces in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked.

Step 4: Refrigerate

1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the croissants to absorb the egg mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
3. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of white cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of pepper jack cheese over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake, uncovered, for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and the top is golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy this festive dish with your loved ones!

FAQs About Christmas Breakfast Casserole

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Just pop it in the oven in the morning!

2. Can I substitute the ham with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use bacon, sausage, or even a vegetarian substitute like mushrooms or tofu.

3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

5. How can I make this dish more festive?

You can add dried cranberries, spinach, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra holiday flavor!

Conclusion

This Christmas Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate holiday morning dish—easy to prepare, deliciously cheesy, and full of festive flavors. With its make-ahead convenience and customizable ingredients, it’s the perfect way to start Christmas morning stress-free. Whether you’re serving a large family gathering or just a cozy breakfast for two, this casserole is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your holiday table. Try it out this season and make it a Christmas tradition!

Merry Christmas and happy cooking!

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