10 Charming Christmas Brunch Casserole Recipes To Celebrate

With the holiday season shining bright, nothing quite embodies the magic of Christmas morning like a cozy brunch featuring scrumptious casseroles. Picture the comforting aroma of a classic egg and sausage bake or the sweet allure of berry French toast filling your home. These dishes blend convenience and flavor beautifully. I’ve gathered some charming recipes that promise to make your festive breakfast truly memorable. Are you ready to explore the next delicious creation?

Classic Egg and Sausage Casserole

Classic Egg and Sausage Casserole is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the flavors of savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and gooey cheese, making it an ideal choice for a festive Christmas brunch.

This hearty casserole can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holiday morning with your loved ones without being tied to the kitchen. The comforting aroma of this dish baking in the oven is sure to fill your home with the warmth and cheer of the season.

This casserole is versatile and can be customized with your family’s favorite ingredients, such as different cheeses or vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to start your Christmas day, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit at your holiday gathering.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 6 slices bread, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to guarantee it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Break up the sausage into crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, dry mustard powder, and garlic powder until well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed bread evenly. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and bell peppers if using.
5. Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire casserole, guaranteeing all the bread cubes are soaked.
6. Rest the Casserole: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. This allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture for a better texture.
7. Bake: Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, consider using a high-quality breakfast sausage. If you prefer a spicier dish, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.

This casserole can be made vegetarian by substituting the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If you’re short on time, you can skip the resting period, but allowing the casserole to sit guarantees a more cohesive and flavorful dish.

Enjoy experimenting with different types of cheese or adding your family’s favorite vegetables to make this classic dish your own.

Berry French Toast Casserole

Berry French Toast Casserole is the perfect dish to serve at your Christmas brunch. Not only is it delicious and bursting with flavor, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday gathering. This casserole combines the comforting warmth of French toast with the freshness of mixed berries, creating a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Served warm from the oven, it will fill your home with an irresistible aroma and is sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, allowing you to enjoy it with your loved ones without having to spend too much time in the kitchen. You can even prepare it the night before, letting the bread soak up all the eggy goodness and the flavors meld together beautifully.

In the morning, all that’s left is to pop it in the oven and let it bake to perfection while you enjoy the company of your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups mixed fresh or frozen berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
• Maple syrup, for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve.
2. Layer the Bread and Berries: Place the cubed bread into the prepared baking dish. Evenly distribute the mixed berries over the top of the bread cubes. If using frozen berries, no need to thaw them; they can be added directly.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and berries in the baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it absorbs the custard mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
5. Preheat and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Remove the cover and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
6. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with warm maple syrup on the side.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, try using brioche or challah instead of French bread, as they absorb the custard beautifully and add a buttery taste. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of sugar in the custard mixture or add a drizzle of honey over the berries before baking.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different berries or even add chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Remember, the casserole can be prepared the night before, which is perfect for a stress-free Christmas morning.

Spinach and Mushroom Casserole With Cheese

The Spinach and Mushroom Casserole with Cheese is a delightful twist on the traditional brunch casserole, perfect for your Christmas morning feast. This dish combines the rich, earthy flavors of mushrooms with the fresh taste of spinach, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

It’s an excellent choice for a hearty and nutritious brunch option that will impress your guests and family alike. Plus, its vibrant green and golden brown colors make it a visually appealing centerpiece on your holiday table.

This casserole isn’t only delicious but also simple to prepare, allowing you more time to spend with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. It’s a great make-ahead dish that can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning, guaranteeing a stress-free holiday.

The combination of the creamy cheese sauce with the spinach and mushrooms creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
• 10 oz. fresh spinach leaves
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s hot and ready for the casserole.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Mushrooms and Spinach:

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they begin to brown, around 5 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and oregano until well combined.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cooked vegetable mixture evenly in the dish. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.

6. Add Breadcrumbs:

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to create a crispy topping.

7. Bake:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

8. Cool and Serve:

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut into portions.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, along with white button mushrooms. If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mix.

This dish can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative. To save time on Christmas morning, prepare the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh in the morning for a hot and delicious brunch treat.

Sweet Potato Bacon Casserole

Sweet Potato Bacon Casserole is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for your Christmas brunch. This dish combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the smoky, salty goodness of crispy bacon. A touch of maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon elevate the flavors, while a crunchy pecan topping adds texture to each bite. This comforting casserole can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or an intimate get-together, this casserole is sure to delight guests of all ages. The recipe is simple yet elegant, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday menu. Serve it alongside other brunch favorites like scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and warm pastries for a balanced and satisfying meal. This versatile dish can also be modified to suit dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can indulge in its deliciousness.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large pot of boiling water and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re just tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sweet potatoes, crumbled bacon, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the sweet potato mixture evenly into the dish. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, butter, and brown sugar. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sweet potatoes are tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the sweet potatoes instead of boiling them, as this can enhance their natural sweetness. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

To make the casserole ahead of time, assemble it without the pecan topping and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, add the pecan topping, and bake as directed. Enjoy your Sweet Potato Bacon Casserole warm for the best flavor and texture.

Ham and Broccoli Cheese Bake

If you’re searching for a hearty and delicious dish to serve at your Christmas brunch, seek no further than this Ham and Broccoli Cheese Bake. This dish combines the savory flavors of ham and the earthiness of broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce.

It’s a comforting and satisfying casserole that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a perfect choice for a festive brunch, and its ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the holiday with your loved ones.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering. The Ham and Broccoli Cheese Bake isn’t only delicious but also versatile. You can prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven on Christmas morning, allowing you more time to focus on other aspects of your holiday celebration.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, guaranteeing a delightful dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the casserole will cook evenly and be ready in time for brunch.
2. Prepare the Broccoli: Blanch the broccoli florets by boiling them in salted water for about 2-3 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and flour until smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the blanched broccoli evenly across the bottom of the dish. Layer the diced ham over the broccoli, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Pour the Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the ham and broccoli layers, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
8. Let Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the dish set further and make serving easier.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture. If you prefer a bit of spice, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can also be included.

To make the dish even more indulgent, you can substitute some or all of the milk with half-and-half for a richer texture. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave, making it a convenient option for post-holiday meals.

Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, combining the sweet and spicy flavors of apple and cinnamon into a warm, comforting brunch dish. Perfect for the holiday season, this casserole is easy to make and guaranteed to please a crowd with its gooey, rich texture and inviting aroma.

Not only is it delicious, but it also simplifies your brunch preparations by allowing you to prepare a single dish that’s both filling and flavorful.

This recipe for Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family gathering or a holiday brunch. The dish combines store-bought cinnamon rolls with fresh apples and a few pantry staples to create a mouthwatering treat that’s both easy to assemble and guaranteed to impress.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy your day with loved ones.

Ingredients:

• 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your casserole will bake evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing for later use. Cut each roll into quarters and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add Apples and Mix: Add the diced apples to the bowl with the cinnamon roll pieces. This combination will provide a fresh, fruity balance to the sweet rolls.
4. Create the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine Ingredients: Pour the butter mixture over the cinnamon roll and apple mixture. Add the optional pecans and raisins if using, then gently toss everything together until well coated.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to guarantee even cooking.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
8. Ice and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll cans over the top. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different apple varieties to add a depth of flavor to your casserole.

Additionally, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator, making the final assembly quick and easy in the morning.

If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce.

Finally, for a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top just before serving.

Feta and Veggie Mediterranean Bake

Feta and Veggie Mediterranean Bake is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your Christmas brunch table. This vegetarian casserole is both hearty and invigorating, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a meat-free meal. Packed with colorful vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs, this dish isn’t only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful.

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a holiday gathering, the Feta and Veggie Mediterranean Bake is sure to impress your guests and add a touch of elegance to your brunch spread.

This casserole is versatile and can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day of your brunch. The combination of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and tomatoes, along with creamy feta cheese, creates a rich and satisfying dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. The Mediterranean herbs used in the recipe add depth of flavor and a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.

Perfect for a serving size of 4-6 people, this dish can be easily doubled if you’re expecting a larger crowd.

Ingredients (for 4-6 servings):

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, and chopped red onion. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes, and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the vegetables.
4. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the vegetables and feta in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the egg mixture is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of this Mediterranean bake, consider adding a handful of kalamata olives or artichoke hearts for an extra layer of taste. If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Then, simply bake it in the morning before your brunch.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs based on your preference and seasonal availability. This recipe is quite forgiving, making it easy to adapt to your taste.

Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal

Maple Pecan Baked Oatmeal is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any Christmas brunch gathering. This casserole-style dish combines the nutty crunch of pecans with the sweet, rich flavor of maple syrup, making it a perfect balance of flavors.

It’s a hearty and wholesome meal that will keep you and your guests satisfied, and its preparation is straightforward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday festivities.

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning, making it ideal for a stress-free brunch. The oatmeal becomes creamy and tender as it bakes, while the pecans toast to perfection, adding a delightful texture to every bite.

Serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a splash of milk, and you’ll have a delicious and nourishing dish that celebrates the flavors of the season.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that it’s hot enough to bake the oatmeal evenly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the oatmeal from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well distributed.
4. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, pure maple syrup, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir them together until all the oats are moistened and everything is evenly mixed.
6. Add the Pecans and Cranberries: Fold in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries, if using. This adds texture and a burst of flavor to the dish.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake the Oatmeal: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
9. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it to firm up slightly and makes it easier to cut into portions.

Extra Tips:

For an even richer flavor, consider using half-and-half instead of regular milk. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the maple syrup to 3/4 cup.

You can also customize the recipe by adding different types of nuts or dried fruits. To save time, you can assemble the ingredients the night before and refrigerate, then bake it fresh in the morning.

Remember to let it come to room temperature before baking if you’ve refrigerated it overnight. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family, and savor the cozy flavors of the holiday season.

Cranberry Orange French Toast Casserole

Cranberry Orange French Toast Casserole is the perfect festive brunch dish, combining the sweet and tart flavors of cranberries and oranges with the comforting warmth of French toast. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish that allows you to enjoy a relaxing Christmas morning without the stress of cooking.

The casserole is rich and fragrant, infused with the zesty aroma of fresh oranges and the vibrant pop of cranberries, making it an irresistible treat for both family and guests. This delicious casserole pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, or even a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

The combination of soft, custard-soaked bread with the crisp topping of sweetened cranberries and a hint of cinnamon makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply want to enjoy a special breakfast with your loved ones, Cranberry Orange French Toast Casserole is a recipe that will surely add a touch of holiday magic to your table.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 loaf of French bread, cubed
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 cups whole milk
• 6 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Begin by cutting the French bread into cubes. This can be done the night before to allow the bread to dry slightly, which helps it absorb the custard mixture better.
2. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the fresh cranberries and orange zest over the bread.
4. Add the Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.
5. Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to meld together.
6. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake the Casserole: Remove the plastic wrap and drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
8. Serve: Drizzle with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy the warm, fragrant casserole fresh out of the oven.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the custard mixture. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, dried cranberries can be used as a substitute, though you may want to soak them in orange juice beforehand to plump them up.

To save time on the day of serving, prepare the casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning. This dish is versatile and can be modified by adding nuts or a splash of nutmeg for an extra festive touch.

Chorizo and Pepper Jack Casserole

Chorizo and Pepper Jack Casserole is a delightful and spicy twist on the classic brunch casserole, perfect for adding some zest to your Christmas morning. This dish combines the robust flavors of chorizo and the creamy, mild heat of Pepper Jack cheese to create a comforting and satisfying meal. The aroma of these ingredients melding together in the oven will fill your home with a festive cheer, making it an ideal centerpiece for your holiday brunch gathering.

This casserole isn’t only flavorful but also convenient, as it can be prepared in advance and baked fresh in the morning, allowing you to spend more time with your family and guests. Its combination of eggs, cheese, and spicy sausage offers a hearty and filling meal that will keep everyone energized throughout the day.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a smaller intimate brunch, this Chorizo and Pepper Jack Casserole is sure to impress with its bold flavors and creamy texture.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound chorizo sausage
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups cubed day-old bread
• Cooking spray

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Chorizo: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chorizo until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
4. Mix the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cubed bread evenly. Layer the cooked chorizo and sautéed vegetables over the bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture over the top, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the shredded Pepper Jack cheese on top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the casserole is set in the center.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into portions and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

For added convenience, you can prepare this casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed.

If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the vegetable mix or using spicy chorizo. Additionally, you can customize the casserole by substituting different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, to suit your taste preferences.