This festive Red & Green Christmas Casserole is a cheerful mix of vibrant colors and flavors! With layers of hearty vegetables and gooey cheese, it’s a holiday treat everyone will love.
The best part? It looks as good as it tastes! I enjoy serving this dish with a nice salad on the side. Plus, the leftovers make for a yummy snack! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These are the base of the casserole, providing protein and structure. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or an egg substitute. I also love adding an extra egg for a fluffier texture!
Milk: Whole milk makes it creamy, but you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly!
Sausage: Pork sausage adds great flavor. For a leaner option, turkey sausage works wonderfully. You could also use a vegetarian sausage if you’re aiming for a meatless dish.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic. Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
The key to a perfectly set casserole lies in the cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to make sure it comes out just right:
- Preheat your oven fully; don’t skip this step! It helps the casserole cook evenly.
- Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan. It should be mostly firm but still slightly jiggle in the center.
- Let it cool a few minutes before cutting; this helps the casserole hold its shape.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious and visually appealing Red & Green Christmas Casserole! Perfect for the holidays or any cozy gathering! Enjoy!
Red & Green Christmas Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 10 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half and half
- 1 cup cooked sausage, crumbled (pork sausage preferred)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. So, you should plan for approximately 1 hour total from start to finish. Perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking later on.
2. Mix the Egg Base
In a large bowl, crack in the 10 eggs and pour in the milk (or half and half). Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using), then whisk everything together until it’s nicely combined and frothy. This mix will be the flavorful base for your casserole!
3. Add the Good Stuff
Next, stir in the crumbled sausage, chopped spinach, and diced green and red bell peppers. Make sure everything is mixed evenly so every bite is full of deliciousness. This is what gives the casserole its festive red and green colors!
4. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the tasty egg mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is the moment when it starts to look like a casserole! Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. It’s going to get cheesy and delicious!
5. Bake It Up!
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is melted and bubbly. It should smell amazing by now!
6. Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This will help it hold its shape better when you dish it out. Serve it warm, and enjoy this beautiful, festive casserole with family or friends!
Enjoy this savory, colorful casserole that’s both hearty and festive! Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute egg whites for whole eggs for a lighter version. Use about 1/4 cup of egg whites for each large egg, which means around 2 1/2 cups of egg whites for this recipe.
How Do I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this casserole, simply omit the sausage and consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or a blend of your favorites. It will still be delicious and colorful!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before! Just follow the steps until you have the mixture in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. In the morning, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or cover and heat in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Enjoy!
