Make Ahead Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole

This Christmas breakfast casserole recipe is the easiest way to make your holiday morning feel warm and stress-free. You assemble it on Christmas Eve, let it rest overnight, and bake it the next morning while everyone unwraps gifts. It’s a hearty, satisfying casserole with savory breakfast flavors that always brings the whole family back for seconds. Plus it's packed with protein and is the perfect healthy recipe to keep you full all morning long!

Every year I rotate through a handful of easy, no-fuss holiday breakfasts, and this Christmas morning casserole has quickly become a staple because it truly lets you enjoy the morning instead of spending it in the kitchen. If you prefer something sweet to round out your spread, you’ll love my sheet pan pancakes or cinnamon roll baked oats both effortless crowd-pleasers.

And if your family prefers a more classic brunch assortment, this casserole pairs perfectly with my make-ahead french toast casserole, everything bagel casserole, breakfast sliders, or a batch of kale and mushroom egg bites for extra protein on the table. Whether you serve it on its own or as part of a bigger breakfast lineup, this hearty casserole always earns a spot on the holiday menu!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Perfect make-ahead option for Christmas Eve or any busy morning.
• A simple recipe with wholesome ingredients that still feels special.
• Makes generous portions and reheats beautifully the next day.
• Easy to customize with different kinds of sausage, shredded cheese, or gluten-free breads.

Christmas Morning Casserole Ingredients & Tested Substitutions

• Gluten-free bread. Cubed and used as the base of the casserole. Any kind of bread works here, including white bread or your favorite gluten-free breads.
• Eggs. The main ingredient that binds everything together into a hearty breakfast casserole.
• Turkey bacon. Adds savory, smoky flavor. You can substitute regular bacon or pancetta if you prefer. 
• Pre-cooked breakfast sausage. Diced into rounds for convenience and flavor. Breakfast sausage links, italian sausage, or even ground turkey or pork all work well.
• Cottage cheese. Adds creaminess and extra protein without making the casserole heavy. 
• Milk. Helps create a smooth, custardy egg mixture. Whole milk makes it richer, but almond milk or 2% also work.
• Shredded cheddar cheese. Melts into the casserole for great flavor. Sharp cheddar cheese. mozzarella or pepper jack cheese are also delicious.
• Garlic & herb seasoning. Adds depth without needing multiple spices. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning work in a pinch.
• Salt & black pepper. Essential for seasoning the egg mixture. Adjust to taste.
• Red pepper flakes. Adds gentle heat. Omit for a milder casserole or substitute paprika for warmth without spice.

Optional Mix-Ins

• Bell peppers or green pepper. Add color, texture, and extra flavor. Sauté lightly for best results.
• Dry mustard. Enhances the savory notes in the egg mixture.
• Hash browns. Add them to the bottom of the baking dish for a heartier, more filling layer instead of the bread cubes.
• Garlic powder. Great if you prefer a more pronounced garlic flavor.

Christmas Morning Casserole Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven. Preheat to 375°F and lightly coat your prepared baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cube the bread. Cube your gluten-free breads (or preferred kind of bread) and place them on the bottom of the baking dish in an even layer.

3. Whisk the egg mixture. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cottage cheese, shredded cheese, turkey bacon, garlic & herb seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt & black pepper.

4. Pour over the bread. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed bread, making sure everything is coated and the mixture settles into the bottom of the baking dish.

5. Add the breakfast sausage. Sprinkle the diced breakfast sausage rounds over the top.

6. Bake. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is lightly golden. Tent with aluminum foil if the top browns too quickly.

7. Cool and serve. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with fresh fruit or potatoes on the side.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• Prep the casserole completely through step 5. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.
  
• The next morning, let it come to room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as directed.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap turkey bacon for italian sausage, chicken sausage, or cooked ground turkey.
• Use pepper jack cheese for more heat or sharp cheddar cheese for deeper flavor.
• Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach for more vegetables.
• Make it dairy-free by using dairy-free milk and shredded cheese alternatives and omitting the cottage cheese.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
• Freezes well for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight and reheat until warmed through.

Did you have a chance to make this recipe? If so, please leave me a 5 star rating and review below. I always love and appreciate hearing from you!