In the midst of the holiday hustle, I found myself craving the cozy, rich flavors that define our family brunches. Enter the Savory Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole—a dish that’s not only a festive feast but also a make-ahead miracle. Piled high with layers of crusty sourdough, savory pork sausage, and indulgent Gruyère cheese, this casserole brings a crowd-pleasing allure to the table. It’s effortless to whip up, letting you focus on cherishing moments with your loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven or prepare it the night before, this recipe is sure to make your holiday mornings feel magical. Curious about how to bring this delightful dish to life? Let’s dive in!
Why is this casserole a crowd-pleaser?
Ease of Preparation: This casserole is perfect for busy holiday mornings, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Comforting Flavors: With savory pork sausage and rich Gruyère cheese, each bite is a comforting hug for your taste buds, reminiscent of heartwarming family gatherings.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Simply prepare the night before, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious breakfast without any fuss. No more rushing when you can relax and enjoy the moment!
Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer bacon, veggies, or extra herbs, there’s room for creativity. Craft it to suit your family’s tastes perfectly.
Festive Appeal: Its golden, puffy exterior and cheesy goodness make it an eye-catching centerpiece for your holiday brunch table. Pair it with a refreshing fruit salad or your favorite festive beverages for a delightful spread!
Martha Stewart Recipes Ingredients
Discover the delightful components that make this breakfast casserole a holiday favorite!
For the Casserole
- Pork Breakfast Sausage – Adds savory flavor and protein; swap with turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic depth; shallots can be used for a sweeter flavor.
- Sourdough Bread – Acts as the hearty base; any crusty bread will work as a substitute.
- Gruyère Cheese – Contributes a nutty, rich taste; consider Swiss cheese for a milder flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Offers a salty, umami kick; Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
- Eggs – Key for binding the casserole; for a vegan option, consider using flax eggs.
- Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Heavy Cream – Ensures richness in the custard; coconut cream can be used for non-dairy.
- Dijon Mustard – Enhances flavor complexity; yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste or dietary needs.
- Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick; white pepper can be swapped in for a different profile.
- Ground Nutmeg – Provides warm, aromatic notes; feel free to omit if unavailable.
For the Toppings (Optional)
- Fresh Herbs – Such as thyme or parsley for added flavor and color.
- Chopped Vegetables – Like spinach or roasted bell peppers for a seasonal twist.
Elevate your holiday brunch with these scrumptious ingredients from Martha Stewart recipes, and watch your family gather around the table in delight!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole bakes evenly, developing a golden, puffy exterior. While the oven warms, gather the rest of your ingredients and equipment, including a large mixing bowl and a baking dish, to streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the pork breakfast sausage and chopped yellow onion. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the sausage is browned and the onions are translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly before incorporating it into your casserole.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eight eggs, two cups of whole milk, one cup of heavy cream, and two tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Add salt, black pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg to taste. Beat the mixture until it’s smooth and well-combined, ensuring a rich custard that will coat your other ingredients in the Christmas Breakfast Casserole.
Step 4: Build the Casserole Layers
In your greased baking dish, start layering by distributing three cups of crusty sourdough bread cubes evenly across the bottom. Follow this with the cooked sausage and onion mixture, spreading it out to ensure every bite of your casserole is filled with delicious flavors. Finally, sprinkle one cup of grated Gruyère cheese on top of the sausage mixture for that indulgent, cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Pour the Egg Mixture
Carefully pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese. Make sure the bread cubes are well-coated, allowing them to absorb the custard while baking. You’ll want a satisfying combination of textures in your Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole, so ensure everything is soaked through.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let the casserole sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate it overnight for even better results. This resting period helps the bread absorb the custard fully, resulting in a well-integrated and flavorful casserole.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Once rested, uncover the dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed up. You can cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning, then remove it to allow the top to crisp up beautifully.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, carefully remove your Christmas Breakfast Casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This makes slicing easier and helps the layers set. Cut into squares and serve warm, allowing everyone to dig into this delightful, festive dish!
Expert Tips for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole
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Stale Bread Works Best: Using slightly stale sourdough or any crusty bread helps achieve the perfect texture, preventing excessive sogginess during baking.
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Don’t Skip the Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight. This step is crucial for letting the bread absorb the custard, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
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Cover for Even Baking: To avoid over-browning, cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking. This ensures even cooking while maintaining a golden top.
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Mix and Match Ingredients: Feel free to swap sausage for crumbled bacon or vegetables to suit your taste. Customize your Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole to reflect your family’s favorites!
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Serve Fresh: For a truly indulgent brunch experience, serve the casserole warm right out of the oven, paired with fresh fruit or festive drinks.
Make Ahead Options
Make your holiday mornings stress-free with the Savory Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole prepared in advance! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead by following the initial steps and then covering it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This time allows the bread to absorb the custard, enhancing its flavor and texture. If you need to prep even sooner, consider preparing the sausage and onion mixture up to 3 days in advance and storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adjusting the cooking time as needed until it’s golden and puffy. This method ensures you will savor the same delicious results without the morning hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, ensuring each bite is just as delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen casserole, move it to the fridge and thaw overnight before reheating. This helps maintains texture and flavor when warming.
Reheating: Always reheat in the oven for the best results—set to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Enjoy your savory Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole even days later!
Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Variations
Feel free to put your personal spin on this festive casserole, making it a dish that reflects your tastes and those of your loved ones!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with a medley of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a vibrant, hearty alternative. This gives wonderful depth without losing the comforting essence of the dish.
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Cheese Swap: Try using feta or cheddar for a distinct flavor twist. Feta will add a tangy bite, while cheddar creates a classic, gooey texture that’s beloved in casseroles.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or cornbread as the base for a suitable swap that keeps this dish inclusive for everyone. The flavor won’t be sacrificed, ensuring everyone can enjoy your brunch.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a touch of heat. This little adjustment can turn up the flavor profile and awaken everyone’s taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like rosemary or sage into the egg mixture to elevate the flavor experience. These aromatic herbs can make a mundane brunch feel festive and special.
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Nutty Texture: Incorporate toasted walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Adding this layer transforms a soft dish into one that offers satisfying contrasts in every bite.
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Sweet Surprise: Include some dried cranberries or apples for a sweet and savory experience. The sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients, making it a delightful holiday treat.
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Make-ahead Perfection: If you prepare the night before, try folding in overnight oats for a unique texture. This will help balance the heaviness of the cheese and meat, giving you a delightfully creamy interior.
Embrace the versatility of this Martha Stewart recipe and create a Christmas Breakfast Casserole that resonates with your family’s traditions!
What to Serve with Savory Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Add vibrant elements to your holiday brunch with these delightful pairings, perfectly complementing your festive casserole!
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Fresh Winter Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and adds a burst of color and flavor.
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Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon offers a delicious contrast to the creamy casserole, elevating your breakfast experience.
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Herb-Infused Breakfast Potatoes: Golden roasted potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs create a satisfying, rustic addition to the table.
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Smoked Salmon Platter: Luxurious smoked salmon garnished with capers and cream cheese provides a gourmet touch, perfect for special gatherings.
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Sweet Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup over your casserole invites a delightful sweet-and-savory balance, enhancing each bite.
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Mimosas or Bellinis: Celebrate with festive drinks! Sparkling mimosas or fruity bellinis add a bubbly charm to your brunch affair.
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Coffee or Hot Cocoa: Warm drinks like rich coffee or creamy hot cocoa pair perfectly with the cozy, comforting flavors of your casserole.
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Mini Pastries: Offer a selection of mini pastries—like croissants or danishes—as a sweet side for guests to nibble on throughout the gathering.
Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe FAQs
What kind of bread is best for this casserole?
For the best texture, I recommend using slightly stale sourdough bread or any crusty bread you have on hand. Fresh bread can become too soft during baking, so if you have old bread lying around, it works wonders in this recipe!
How should I store leftovers?
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through—about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) works nicely to keep it delicious.
Can I freeze the Christmas Breakfast Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy it, simply move it to the fridge to thaw overnight for the best results.
Why do I need to let the casserole sit before baking?
Letting the casserole rest for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) allows the bread to absorb the egg custard fully. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture—creamy inside with a nice, golden crust on top.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Very! You can easily swap out the pork sausage for a mix of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or even crumbled bacon for some added flavor. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re concerned about allergies, this casserole contains dairy and eggs. You can make dairy-free substitutions using almond milk and coconut cream, and for an egg-free version, consider using flax eggs. Always be sure to check ingredient labels to accommodate specific dietary restrictions.
Martha Stewart Recipes: Perfect Christmas Breakfast Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the pork breakfast sausage and chopped yellow onion over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat and let cool slightly.
- Whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg to taste.
- In your greased baking dish, layer the sourdough bread cubes, followed by the sausage and onion mixture. Top with grated Gruyère cheese.
- Pour the egg custard mixture evenly over the layered bread, sausage, and cheese, ensuring all bread cubes are well-coated.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the casserole sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate it overnight.
- Remove the cover and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
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