Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Morning Casserole is a perfect dish for the festive season. It is a hearty meal that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holiday morning with family and friends without much fuss. This casserole combines flavorful ingredients like sausage, cheese, and hash browns, ensuring everyone will find something they love. Plus, it fills your home with a delicious aroma as it bakes!
How to Make Christmas Morning Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 cups frozen hash browns
- 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the hash browns, cooked sausage, and cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the hash brown mixture and stir until combined.
- Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or bake immediately for 45-60 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Christmas Morning Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, right out of the oven. It goes well with fresh fruit, coffee, or hot cocoa. You can cut it into squares and serve it on individual plates or let everyone serve themselves from the baking dish. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream on top can add extra flavor!
How to Store Christmas Morning Casserole
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again!
Tips to Make Christmas Morning Casserole
- For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions into the hash brown mixture.
- You can use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to customize the taste.
- Make it even easier by preparing the casserole the night before and baking it in the morning.
Variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and adding more vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh hash browns, but make sure to pre-cook them for a few minutes to soften them up.
Can I make this casserole without milk?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy milk option or use half-and-half for a creamier texture.
How can I reheat the casserole?
You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave for a quick option.