why make this recipe
Christmas Morning Casserole is a reliable, no-fuss dish that feeds a crowd and can be mostly prepped the night before. It balances savory sausage, creamy eggs, and comforting hash browns into a single baked pan — perfect for busy holiday mornings when you want something hearty without standing at the stove. If you like pairing a savory main with a sweet bite, try Christmas shortbread cookie bites for an easy treat alongside the casserole.
introduction
This casserole is built from simple, familiar ingredients and comes together quickly. It’s a forgiving recipe — swap cheeses, add veggies, or make it vegetarian by replacing sausage with seasoned, sautéed mushrooms or plant-based crumbles. The result is a golden, set egg strata with pockets of sausage and crisped edges from the hash browns, ideal for serving family and friends on Christmas morning.
how to make Christmas Morning Casserole
Follow these clear steps so your casserole comes out perfectly set and golden every time. The full ingredient list and step-by-step directions are below; read through once before starting so you can have everything ready.
Ingredients :
1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
1 package hash browns (about 30 ounces), thawed
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 eggs
1 cup milk
salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, hash browns, and shredded cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hash brown mixture, stirring to combine.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
how to serve Christmas Morning Casserole
Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after removing from the oven so it slices cleanly. Serve in squares directly from the baking dish alongside hot coffee, fruit salad, and toast. Top with extra chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for a slightly tangy finish. This casserole pairs well with light, acidic sides (like fresh fruit) to cut through the richness.
how to store Christmas Morning Casserole
Cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes (longer from frozen), or microwave single servings until warmed through.
tips to make Christmas Morning Casserole
- Cook and drain the sausage well so the casserole isn’t greasy.
- Thaw hash browns fully and squeeze out excess moisture if they seem watery.
- For a fluffier texture, let the egg mixture sit 10 minutes before baking to allow starches to hydrate.
- Use a thermometer to check doneness: eggs should register about 160°F in the center.
- Make-ahead: assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate; bake the next morning (you may need an extra 5–10 minutes).
variation (if any)
- Vegetable version: swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
- Cheese swap: use pepper jack for heat or Swiss for a milder, nuttier profile.
- Add-ins: cooked bacon, diced ham, or roasted red peppers work well.
- Make it gluten-free by confirming the hash brown package and sausage are labeled gluten-free.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen shredded potatoes without thawing?
A: Thawing produces a more even bake; if using mostly frozen, expect excess liquid — squeeze before mixing.
Q: Can I halve this recipe?
A: Yes — bake in an 8×8-inch dish and check for doneness earlier (around 30–40 minutes).
Q: How do I keep it from drying out?
A: Avoid overbaking and ensure there’s a good balance of cheese and sausage fat; adding a little extra milk or a beaten egg yolk can increase creaminess.
Conclusion
For more make-ahead holiday breakfast ideas and similar casseroles, see Christmas Breakfast Casserole {Make Ahead!} | Lil’ Luna.
Christmas Morning Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, hash browns, and shredded cheese.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hash brown mixture, stirring to combine.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the mixture into it.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
