This colorful casserole is a holiday treat, filled with bright red and green ingredients like bell peppers, tomatoes, and spinach. It’s both delicious and festive!
You can serve it as a main dish or a side, and it looks so pretty on the table. Plus, making it is simple and fun—perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: Eggs are the star of the dish, providing structure and protein. If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap with a chickpea flour substitute (mix 1/4 cup chickpea flour with 1/4 cup water per egg).
Cheese: Cheddar and Monterey Jack give a nice blend of sharpness and creaminess. For a non-dairy version, use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Bell Peppers: Red and green bell peppers add color and crunch. If you want a different flavor, use chopped spinach or kale for the green component, and any other color bell pepper for the red.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage adds a hearty touch. If avoiding meat, consider sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage as a tasty replacement.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the casserole to set just right is key. Here’s how:
- Whisk the eggs and milk until frothy; this helps incorporate air for a fluffy texture.
- Don’t skip on greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake until edges are firm and the center springs back lightly when touched. An inserted knife should come out clean.
Let it cool slightly before cutting to allow it to firm up further. This makes serving easier and keeps those lovely squares intact!
Red & Green Christmas Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage crumbles (optional for a meat version)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Non-stick cooking spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 to 35 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to serve it in just under an hour! Perfect for a holiday breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s ready for the casserole when you’re done preparing it. Don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×9-inch (or similar size) casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking!
2. Mix the Eggs and Milk:
In a large mixing bowl, crack your eggs and add the milk. Whisk them together until well combined and slightly frothy. This will give the casserole a nice fluffy texture!
3. Add in the Good Stuff:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. If you’re using sausage, add the cooked breakfast sausage crumbles in too! Then, toss in the diced red and green bell peppers, chopped green onions, diced onions, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix everything until it’s evenly distributed.
4. Pour and Spread:
Carefully pour the egg mixture into your prepared casserole dish, making sure to spread it out evenly. This helps it cook evenly throughout.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the center is set and the top is lightly golden. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean!
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to make cutting easier. If you want to add a pop of color, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a festive touch!
7. Slice and Serve:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. It’s delightful on its own or with a side of fruit!
This casserole is the perfect festive dish, combining the vibrant colors of red and green with delicious flavors of eggs, cheese, and savory sausage. Enjoy your holiday meal!
Can I Use Egg Substitutes for This Recipe?
Yes! If you need to use an egg substitute, you can try replacing each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a commercial egg replacer mixed according to package instructions. Keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it in the casserole dish. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, but give it an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if it’s cold.
How Do I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It may take a bit longer to bake after freezing, so check for doneness before serving.
