Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole – 5-Star Cozy Holiday Recipe

Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole has become my holiday morning savior. Let me tell you why. Picture this: It’s Christmas morning, 6 AM, and while my family is still snuggled in bed dreaming of presents, I’m not frantically scrambling eggs or flipping pancakes. Instead, I’m sipping coffee, completely relaxed, because this glorious casserole is already in the oven, filling my home with the most incredible savory aromas.

Hey there! I’m Emeli, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of hosting holiday brunches at FoodFansy, it’s that Christmas morning should be about joy, not kitchen chaos. This Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole changed everything for me. I discovered it during a particularly overwhelming December when I was hosting 12 people and realized I couldn’t possibly cook breakfast from scratch while also managing gifts, coffee refills, and excited kids.

This recipe delivers on every level: golden, custardy layers of bread soaked in seasoned eggs, melted cheese stretching with every slice, and colorful vegetables that make it feel both indulgent and wholesome. The best part? You assemble it the night before and wake up to an almost-ready breakfast that looks like you spent hours on it.

As someone who’s tested countless breakfast casseroles (and suffered through more than a few rubbery, flavorless disasters), I can confidently say this version hits every mark. In this guide, I’ll walk you through ingredient selection, make-ahead tips, cooking techniques, and all the creative variations that keep this casserole exciting year after year.

Why This Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole Works

This Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole has earned its place as a holiday staple for good reason. It solves the biggest challenge of holiday entertaining: feeding a crowd without missing the celebration.

Here’s why it’s brilliant:

• Make-ahead magic – Assemble it the night before and reclaim your Christmas morning for what matters most
• Budget-friendly ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples and day-old bread (yes, stale bread is actually preferred!)
• Crowd-pleasing versatility – Feeds 8-10 people easily and accommodates dietary preferences with simple swaps
• Foolproof texture – The overnight soak creates a perfectly custardy interior with a golden, slightly crispy top
• Impressive presentation – Looks elegant enough for a holiday table but couldn’t be easier to execute
• Customizable base – Acts as a blank canvas for your favorite add-ins, from breakfast meats to gourmet cheeses

The genius of this casserole lies in its simplicity. Unlike fussy soufflés or temperamental quiches, this dish is forgiving and actually improves with advance preparation. The bread soaks up the egg mixture overnight, creating tender layers that bake into something magical.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final dish. Let me walk you through what makes or breaks this Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole.

Best Bread for This Breakfast Casserole

Day-old bread is your secret weapon here. Fresh bread turns mushy, but slightly stale bread has the perfect texture to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart.

Top choices:

• French bread or baguette – Creates the most authentic texture with crispy edges
• Sourdough – Adds a subtle tang that complements the savory filling
• Challah – For a richer, slightly sweet flavor profile
• Italian bread – Sturdy structure holds up beautifully

Pro tip: If you only have fresh bread, cut it into cubes and leave them uncovered on a baking sheet overnight, or toast them lightly in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.

Selecting Quality Eggs and Dairy

Eggs: Use large eggs at room temperature. They incorporate more smoothly into the mixture and create a silkier custard. Eight eggs provide the perfect ratio for 6 cups of bread.

Dairy choice matters:

• Whole milk – Creates a lighter, fluffier casserole
• Half-and-half – My personal favorite for richness without being too heavy
• Heavy cream – Use sparingly (mix with milk) for special occasions when you want ultimate decadence

Cheese Selection for Maximum Flavor

The cheese creates those irresistible stretchy, melty layers. Cheddar offers sharp, bold flavor, while mozzarella provides superior melt quality. I typically use a combination: sharp cheddar for flavor plus mozzarella for texture.

Alternative options:

• Gruyère for sophisticated, nutty notes
• Monterey Jack for mild, creamy goodness
• Pepper Jack for a spicy kick

Fresh Vegetables: Quality and Preparation

Spinach should be fresh, not frozen (frozen releases too much moisture). Red bell peppers add sweetness and gorgeous color. Onions provide aromatic depth use yellow or white onions for the best flavor base.

Buying tip: Shop for vegetables the day before you assemble the casserole. Look for firm bell peppers with glossy skin and spinach leaves that are vibrant green without wilting or dark spots.

Ingredients & Prep for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Let me break down everything you need and how to prep each component for success.

Bread and Egg Base Essentials for Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 6 cups cubed day-old bread (about 1 large loaf)
• 8 large eggs
• 2½ cups milk or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste

Prep instructions: Cut bread into 1-inch cubes consistency matters here. Pieces that are too small become soggy, while oversized chunks won’t absorb enough custard. Spread cubes in a single layer and let them sit out for at least 2 hours if your bread is too fresh.

For the custard base, whisk eggs thoroughly until no streaks remain. Add your dairy slowly while whisking to create a smooth, unified mixture. Season generously with salt (about 1 teaspoon) and freshly ground black pepper (½ teaspoon). Taste the mixture before pouring it should be well-seasoned since it needs to flavor all that bread.

Vegetable Mixture for Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (about ¾ cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups spinach, chopped

Sautéing technique: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions first and cook for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Don’t rush this step properly softened onions add sweetness without crunch.

Add bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes until they’ve softened but still retain some texture. Finally, toss in spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Spinach releases moisture as it cooks, so don’t overcook or your casserole will be watery. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly before assembling.

Cheese Layer Components

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a combination)

Prep tip: Shred cheese yourself rather than buying pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Room temperature cheese distributes more evenly through the layers.

Reserve about ½ cup of cheese to sprinkle on top during the last 15 minutes of baking. This creates that gorgeous golden, bubbly cheese crust everyone fights over.

Assembly Instructions

Step-by-step layering:

1. Grease your dish – Use butter or cooking spray on a 9×13-inch baking dish. Don’t skip this or you’ll struggle with serving.
2. First bread layer – Spread half the bread cubes evenly across the bottom.
3. Vegetable layer – Distribute the cooled sautéed vegetables over the bread.
4. Cheese layer – Sprinkle 1½ cups of cheese over the vegetables.
5. Second bread layer – Add remaining bread cubes on top.
6. Pour custard – Slowly pour the egg mixture over everything, making sure to cover all the bread. Use a spatula to gently press down any pieces that aren’t submerged.
7. Cover and refrigerate – Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting period is crucial for proper texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Let’s walk through the cooking process to ensure perfect results every time you make this Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole.

Pre-Cooking Prep for Breakfast Casserole

Remove your casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes while your oven preheats. This is non-negotiable baking a cold casserole straight from the fridge leads to uneven cooking with a raw center and overcooked edges.

During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position your oven rack in the center to ensure even heat distribution. If you reserved cheese for topping, keep it handy you’ll add it later.

Give the casserole a gentle press with a spatula to make sure all the bread pieces are still submerged in the egg mixture. Some bread naturally floats to the top, which is fine, but everything should look moist.

Cooking Method for Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Baking technique:

Place the uncovered casserole in your preheated 350°F oven. The lower temperature (compared to some recipes that call for 375°F) ensures the eggs cook gently without becoming rubbery.

Timing breakdown:

• Minutes 0-30: The casserole sets around the edges and begins puffing slightly
• Minutes 30-40: The center starts firming up and the top develops light golden color
• Minutes 40-45: If using reserved cheese, sprinkle it on now
• Minutes 45-50: The top turns deeply golden and the center is fully set

Visual cues to watch for:

• Edges pull slightly away from the sides of the dish
• Top is golden brown with some darker crispy spots
• No liquid egg mixture visible when you gently shake the pan

Doneness Check for Breakfast Casserole

The most reliable test is the knife method. Insert a butter knife or thin spatula into the center of the casserole. When you pull it out, it should emerge clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. If you see wet, uncooked egg, bake for another 5-10 minutes.

Alternative test: Gently press the center with your finger. It should feel firm and spring back slightly, not jiggly or liquidy.

Internal temperature: If you have an instant-read thermometer, the center should register 160°F. This ensures the eggs are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Resting Your Christmas Breakfast Casserole

This is the step most people skip, and it’s a mistake. Let your casserole rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. During this time, the eggs finish setting, the cheese firms up slightly, and the whole dish becomes much easier to slice cleanly.

Cover loosely with foil during resting to keep it warm. This resting period also makes serving so much prettier you’ll get neat squares instead of a sloppy, runny mess.

After resting, use a sharp knife to cut into portions. A serrated knife works particularly well for slicing through the crusty top without squashing the tender interior.

Pro Tips for Perfect Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

After making this Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole dozens of times, I’ve learned tricks that elevate it from good to extraordinary.

Avoiding Soggy or Dry Breakfast Casserole

Soggy disasters happen when:

• You use fresh bread instead of day-old
• Vegetables release too much water (frozen spinach is a common culprit)
• The egg-to-bread ratio is off

Solutions: Always use stale bread, sauté vegetables to release moisture beforehand, and stick to the 8 eggs per 6 cups bread ratio. If your vegetables seem watery after cooking, pat them dry with paper towels.

Dry casseroles result from:

• Overbaking
• Not enough custard mixture
• Skipping the overnight soak

Fixes: Use a timer and check doneness early. Make sure every piece of bread gets soaked in the egg mixture press down gently while assembling. The overnight rest is essential; don’t rush it.

Essential Tool Recommendations

Must-haves:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – Glass or ceramic works best for even heating
• Large mixing bowl – For whisking eggs comfortably
• Sharp chef’s knife – For clean vegetable dicing
• Whisk – Creates smooth, lump-free custard
• Aluminum foil – For covering during storage

Nice-to-haves:

• Instant-read thermometer – Takes the guesswork out of doneness
• Box grater – For freshly shredded cheese that melts beautifully
• Large skillet – Makes sautéing vegetables easier

Storage & Reheating Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Refrigerator storage: Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Properly stored, the casserole keeps for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Reheating methods:

• Oven (best for texture): Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through
• Microwave (quickest): Individual portions reheat in 60-90 seconds on high power
• Toaster oven: Great for single servings creates crispy edges

Freezing instructions: This casserole freezes beautifully! Wrap the entire baked casserole (or individual portions) tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thawing and reheating frozen casserole: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat covered at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. You can also reheat from frozen just add 15-20 minutes to the cooking time and keep it covered until the last 10 minutes.

Flavor Variations for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

One reason I never tire of this Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole is its incredible versatility. Here are my favorite twists.

Meat Lover’s Breakfast Casserole

Transform this into a hearty, protein-packed version by adding cooked breakfast meats.

Best additions:

• Crispy bacon – Cook 8 slices, crumble, and layer with vegetables
• Breakfast sausage – Brown 1 pound, drain, and mix into the vegetable layer
• Diced ham – Fold 1½ cups into the casserole for a classic Denver omelet vibe
• Chorizo – For spicy, smoky depth (reduce other salt accordingly)

Add the cooked meat right after sautéing your vegetables, letting the flavors meld together before assembling the casserole.

Vegetarian & Keto-Friendly Options

Vegetarian boost: Add roasted mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or diced zucchini to the vegetable mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives add incredible flavor without carbs.

Keto adaptation: Replace bread with riced cauliflower (squeeze dry after cooking) or use a combination of cauliflower and cubed firm tofu. Increase cheese to 3 cups and add extra eggs (10 instead of 8) to maintain structure. Use heavy cream instead of milk for richness.

Global-Inspired Variations

Mexican-style breakfast casserole:

• Replace cheddar with pepper Jack and cotija cheese
• Add diced jalapeños, black beans, and corn
• Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro after baking
• Serve with hot sauce and sour cream

Italian-inspired version:

• Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
• Add sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and Italian sausage
• Season custard with Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Top with marinara sauce for a pizza-breakfast hybrid

French countryside casserole:

• Use Gruyère cheese and cubed brioche bread
• Add caramelized onions, mushrooms, and fresh thyme
• Fold in crumbled goat cheese
• Serve with Dijon mustard on the side

Flavor Variation Comparison Table

Serving Suggestions for Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

This Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole is substantial enough to stand alone, but thoughtful pairings make it truly memorable.

Perfect Side Dish Pairings

Fresh fruit complements the savory richness:

• Winter fruit salad – Pomegranate seeds, orange segments, and pears with honey-lime dressing
• Berry medley – Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries (fresh or lightly macerated)
• Roasted cinnamon apples – Warm, spiced fruit balances the savory casserole

Breakfast sides that round out the meal:

• Crispy hash browns – The crunch contrasts beautifully with creamy casserole
• Buttermilk biscuits – For soaking up any extra egg custard
• Mixed green salad – With a light vinaigrette for freshness
• Roasted tomatoes – Adds bright acidity

Beverage Pairings

Coffee variations: A robust medium-roast coffee cuts through the richness. I love serving a French press or pour-over alongside this casserole. For a festive touch, offer a cinnamon-spiced latte station.

Juice selections:

• Fresh orange juice – Classic and refreshing
• Cranberry juice cocktail – Seasonal and tart
• Apple cider – Warm or cold, perfectly holiday

Cocktails for adult brunches:

• Mimosas – Champagne and orange juice never go out of style
• Bloody Marys – For those who prefer savory morning drinks
• Bellinis – Prosecco with peach purée adds elegance

Wine pairing: If you’re serving this for a late brunch, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Grigio works beautifully. The acidity cuts through the cheese and eggs while complementing the vegetables.

Presentation Ideas

Serve directly from the baking dish for rustic charm, or transfer individual portions to warmed plates for a more refined presentation. Garnish each serving with:

• Fresh chopped parsley or chives
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Cherry tomatoes on the side
• A light sprinkle of paprika for color

For buffet-style serving, keep the casserole warm in a chafing dish or on a warming tray. Provide a serving spatula and stack warmed plates nearby for easy self-service.

FAQs About Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole

Let me answer the questions I hear most often about this Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole.

Can I assemble this breakfast casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely that’s the whole point! Assemble the casserole completely up to 24 hours in advance. The overnight rest actually improves the texture as the bread fully absorbs the custard. Just keep it covered tightly in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

If you need to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?

I don’t recommend frozen spinach because it releases too much moisture, making your casserole watery. If you must use frozen, thaw it completely, squeeze out every drop of liquid through a clean kitchen towel, and reduce the milk in your custard by ¼ cup.

Frozen bell peppers can work in a pinch but won’t have the same fresh, crisp texture. Fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference in the final dish.

What if my casserole is too runny after baking?

If your casserole hasn’t set after 50 minutes, continue baking in 5-minute increments until the knife test comes out clean. The most common causes are:

• Not enough resting time before baking (bread didn’t fully absorb custard)
• Oven temperature too low (use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy)
• Too much moisture from vegetables
• Opening the oven door repeatedly during baking

If it’s already out of the oven and runny, return it uncovered and bake for another 10-15 minutes at 375°F to help evaporate excess moisture.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

If the top is browning too quickly but the center isn’t set, tent the casserole loosely with aluminum foil. This allows the interior to continue cooking while protecting the surface.

For even browning, rotate the pan halfway through baking. Some ovens have hot spots that can cause uneven coloring.

Is this Christmas breakfast casserole safe for pregnant women?

Yes, as long as the eggs are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F, which this recipe achieves. Make sure the center is fully set with no runny egg mixture remaining. Pregnant women should avoid undercooked eggs due to salmonella risk, but properly baked casseroles are perfectly safe.

Use pasteurized eggs for extra peace of mind, and ensure all cheese is made from pasteurized milk (most commercial cheese in the US is).

Can I make individual portions instead of one large casserole?

Definitely! Divide the mixture among greased muffin tins or individual ramekins. Reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes since smaller portions cook faster. This is perfect for meal prep you can grab individual servings throughout the week.

Individual portions also freeze beautifully. Wrap each one separately and reheat directly from frozen in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

What’s the best way to transport this for a potluck?

Bake the casserole at home, let it cool slightly, then cover tightly with foil. Wrap the entire dish in a large towel or place in an insulated carrier to retain heat. It will stay warm for about 1-2 hours.

Alternatively, assemble it in a disposable aluminum pan, transport it cold, and ask your host to bake it at their location. This ensures it’s fresh and hot when served.

Conclusion

This Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole has transformed my holiday mornings from stressful to magical. There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing breakfast is handled while you sip coffee and watch loved ones open presents. The combination of custardy bread, melted cheese, and colorful vegetables creates layers of comfort in every bite.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later! I’d love to see your unique twist feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!

Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole – 5-Star Cozy Holiday Recipe

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• Author: Emily
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

A warm, comforting breakfast casserole inspired by Martha Stewart perfect for Christmas mornings with family.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

6 cups day-old bread cubes

8 large eggs

2 ½ cups milk or half-and-half

1 small onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

2 cups spinach, chopped

2 cups shredded cheese

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Sauté onions, peppers, and spinach.

3. Layer bread, veggies, and cheese.

4. Whisk eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.

5. Pour mixture over bread.

6. Refrigerate overnight or bake immediately.

7. Bake at 350°F for 45–50 minutes.

8. Cool 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use dry bread for the best texture.

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F.

Add your favorite veggies for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: Martha Stewart Christmas Breakfast Casserole, holiday breakfast, make-ahead casserole