Is there anything more delightful than waking up on Christmas morning to the smell of something delicious baking in the oven? According to country music legend Trisha Yearwood, her Breakfast Sausage Casserole is a holiday tradition that’s even better than unwrapping presents. This hearty, savory dish brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to the table, making it a must-have for your Christmas celebrations.
Here’s how you can recreate this beloved recipe, step-by-step, to make your holiday mornings as magical as they are mouthwatering.
Why Trisha Yearwood’s Breakfast Casserole Is a Christmas Classic
What makes this dish so special? For Trisha, it’s more than just a recipe; it’s a cherished family tradition. “My dad used to make it on Christmas mornings,” she shares. Passed down through generations and featured in her cookbook Georgia Cooking in an Oklahoma Kitchen, this casserole is packed with Southern charm and comforting flavors.
The best part? It’s designed to be prepped ahead of time. By assembling everything the night before, you can relax and enjoy the festive chaos of Christmas morning while the oven does all the work. The result is a house filled with irresistible aromas and a meal that’s ready just when everyone starts feeling hungry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into making this iconic casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- Butter
- Sliced white loaf bread
- Pork sausage with sage
- Aged sharp cheddar cheese
- Half-and-half
- Dry mustard
- Salt
- Large eggs
These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Trisha Yearwood’s Breakfast Sausage Casserole
1. Prepare the Bread Base
Start by cutting your loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes. This will serve as the hearty foundation of your casserole. Grease a 9-by-13-by-2-inch casserole dish with butter and spread the bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a medium skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium heat until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, letting the excess fat drain away. Once ready, evenly distribute the cooked sausage over the bread cubes.
3. Add the Cheese
Generously sprinkle aged sharp cheddar cheese over the sausage layer. This step is where the magic begins, as the cheese melts into the casserole, adding richness and depth of flavor.
4. Mix the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, dry mustard, salt, and large eggs. This custard-like mixture will soak into the bread and sausage, binding everything together. Pour it evenly over the layers of bread, sausage, and cheese.
5. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the bread to absorb all the flavors and ensures the casserole bakes up perfectly the next day.
The Big Reveal: Baking Your Casserole
When Christmas morning arrives, it’s time to turn your prepped casserole into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Keep the casserole covered with foil and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until it’s set and slightly golden on top.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Elevating Your Breakfast Casserole
Want to put your own twist on this classic dish? Here are some variations and tips:
- Add veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers, onions, or spinach for a pop of color and added nutrients.
- Swap the sausage: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika for a subtle kick.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Trisha Yearwood’s Breakfast Sausage Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a holiday experience. The combination of savory sausage, melty cheddar, and custardy bread creates a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the convenience of prepping it the night before makes it ideal for busy holiday mornings when you’d rather be soaking up time with loved ones than cooking in the kitchen.
As Trisha says, “By the time the presents are open, and everyone’s hungry, it’s time to eat!” This casserole isn’t just food—it’s a tradition that brings people together and makes Christmas mornings even more special.
A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For
This Christmas, why not make Trisha Yearwood’s Breakfast Sausage Casserole a part of your family’s traditions? With its easy prep, mouthwatering flavors, and warm memories baked into every bite, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite.
So, grab your ingredients, don your festive apron, and get ready to make this beloved Southern dish. Because when it comes to Christmas mornings, the only thing better than presents is a table full of love and delicious food.
