If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly captures the warmth and joy of the holiday season, the Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This hearty and comforting casserole blends fluffy eggs, savory sausage, melty cheese, and vibrant veggies with just the right touch of herbs and spices. It’s the ideal make-ahead breakfast to serve your family and friends when you want to start Christmas morning on a delicious note that feels special, festive, and effortlessly satisfying.

A square white baking dish filled with a golden baked casserole that has a textured top with browned spots and small chunks of bacon. The casserole is cut into squares, with one square lifted slightly to show a soft, creamy, layered inside that is pale yellow with bits of green herbs mixed in. The top is sprinkled with chopped green onions, adding a fresh green color contrast. The dish sits on a wooden board, and the background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe is easier than you think, and each one plays a crucial role. From the richness of the eggs to the savory touch of sausage and the fresh brightness of spinach and bell peppers, these components combine to create a delightful medley of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

12 large eggs: The star of the dish, eggs provide a rich, custardy base that holds everything together.
1 cup milk or half-and-half: Adds creaminess to the eggs and ensures a silky texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors in the casserole.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle peppery kick without overpowering.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a subtle, aromatic depth to the egg mixture.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a lovely herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix): Provides gooey, melty goodness and a beautiful golden top.
1 cup cooked and crumbled breakfast sausage (or vegetarian alternative): Brings hearty, savory flavor and a wonderful meaty texture.
1 cup diced onions: Adds sweetness and a little crunch when sautéed.
1 cup diced bell peppers (optional): Contributes vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
2 cups fresh spinach (or other greens): Gives a fresh, healthy boost and lovely green flecks inside.
2 cups cubed bread (day-old or lightly toasted): Soaks up the egg mixture perfectly to create a custardy but textured base.
Butter or cooking spray: For greasing the baking dish and preventing sticking.

How to Make Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cooking your breakfast sausage in a skillet until it’s nicely browned, which adds savory depth to your dish. Next, sauté the onions, bell peppers (if using), and spinach just until they soften—this cooks them through while preserving their vibrant colors and fresher flavors. Set these aside as they will mix right into the egg base.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and milk (or half-and-half) until fully combined and slightly frothy. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme to bring out a wonderful aroma and flavor in every bite. Then fold in the cooked sausage, sautéed veggies, and shredded cheese. This mixture should be bursting with holiday cheer and ready to soak into the bread.

Step 3: Layer the Bread and Pour the Mixture

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly spread your cubed bread at the bottom—day-old bread works best for absorbing the egg mixture without turning mushy. Pour the egg and sausage mixture over the bread, making sure the bread pieces get soaked thoroughly. This layering is key to a tender, flavorful breakfast casserole.

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight (Optional)

For the best texture and flavor absorption, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step isn’t required, but it allows the bread to soak up all those delicious flavors fully, making the casserole taste even better the next morning.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator if refrigerated overnight and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown, slightly puffed, and the center is set but still moist. Avoid overbaking to keep it from drying out. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe

Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Enhance your casserole’s festive appearance with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. A light dusting of paprika or freshly ground black pepper on top can add visual appeal and a touch of warmth to each bite.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad to balance the rich flavors, or a crispy side of bacon and fresh orange juice for a traditional Christmas breakfast spread. For a touch of indulgence, serve alongside warm cinnamon rolls or toasted English muffins.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider baking your casserole in individual ramekins or muffin tins for personalized portions that are perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, serve it family-style in the baking dish placed right on the table, letting everyone scoop generous helpings while enjoying the cozy holiday ambiance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to keep the texture just right when reheated.

Freezing

The casserole freezes well either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish and wrap tightly. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. For frozen leftovers, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, or warm a larger portion in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Cover loosely with foil to prevent overbaking and drying out.

FAQs

Can I make the casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply use a vegetarian sausage alternative or add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini. The casserole’s rich egg and cheese base will keep it hearty and flavorful.

What type of bread works best in this recipe?

Day-old or lightly toasted bread holds up best as it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming mushy. Rustic breads like sourdough or a sturdy white bread can add nice texture.

Can I prepare this casserole the morning I want to serve it?

Yes, you can skip the overnight soak and bake immediately; just be aware that the bread won’t soak as fully, so the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is it possible to customize the cheese?

Definitely! Use your favorite cheeses or a blend, like sharp cheddar with mozzarella or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep the total cheese quantity the same to maintain balance.

How do I avoid the casserole from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and make sure to let it rest for a few minutes after baking to help the moisture redistribute. Using half-and-half can also help keep the texture creamy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about gathering around a table with the delightful aroma of the Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Recipe filling your home. It’s a recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve, blending classic holiday flavors with simple ingredients that make mornings feel special. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to recipe for all your festive occasions. So go ahead, bring this casserole to your next holiday, and watch it become a treasured family favorite!