My mom always made for Christmas morning! She’d assemble it all the night before, cover & refrigerate then just bake it while we were opening our presents from Santa. See notes below…there are many ways to customize it to your own taste.
Christmas Casserole
4 slices of bread, cubed
1 lb. ground pork or breakfast sausage or breakfast links (chopped)
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
6 eggs, beaten
2 c. milk
salt & pepper to taste
Grease or spray a 9″x13″ pan with oil. In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage (or links if they are uncooked) until done. Drain off grease and spread over the bread cubes. Sprinkle with the cheese.
In medium bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, salt and pepper. Pour over the bread and sausage mix in the pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. Cut into squares and serve warm!
Options:
• For lighter version, use egg substitute, skim milk, light cheese, and flavored ground turkey.
• For a spicy flare, use shredded Mexican cheese blend, chopped jalapenos, cilantro, and spicy ground turkey or chorizo. Serve with salsa and sour cream.
• In the summer, mix in 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite fresh herbs, chopped finely: chives, rosemary, thyme, cilantro or oregano. Or toss in chopped fresh mushrooms, tomatoes, bell peppers or pre-cooked hashbrowns or potatoes.
• Try different cheeses, like pepper jack, swiss or white cheddar, or different breads like sourdough, rye, ciabatta rolls (may need to add a little more milk if you’re using thicker, drier breads).
This dish is also great for potlucks and quick weekday breakfasts…just cook ahead of time then simply reheat the entire pan or microwave one piece at a time.
