This colorful Red & Green Christmas Casserole is bursting with festive flavors! It features tasty layers of spinach and tomatoes blended with creamy cheese for a warm, cozy dish.
It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, and you can count on everyone going back for seconds! I love serving it with crunchy bread—it makes the meal feel extra special and fun.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil or Butter: I usually go for olive oil for a healthier option, but butter adds a rich flavor. Feel free to substitute with coconut oil if you need a dairy-free option.
Sausage: Breakfast sausage gives great flavor, but if you prefer a vegetarian dish, you can skip the sausage or use a meat substitute. Cooked diced mushrooms or lentils work well too!
Bell Peppers: Green and red bell peppers add color and crunch. Yellow or orange peppers are good substitutes if you need something sweeter. You can also use zucchini for a different twist!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is the star for its vibrant color and nutrients. If fresh isn’t available, frozen spinach is a handy substitute. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the mix.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even a creamy goat cheese for something unique.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Casserole?
Making a great casserole is all about layering flavors and ensuring it’s cooked evenly! Here are some tips:
- Preheat the oven fully to ensure even cooking. This helps to set the eggs properly so the casserole doesn’t turn out too soft.
- Cooking the veggies before mixing them with eggs helps avoid excess moisture. Drain any liquid if needed!
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Try adding herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. A little sprinkle of paprika on top before baking adds color too.
These little tips can make your casserole even more delicious and festive!
Red & Green Christmas Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup cooked breakfast sausage or ground sausage
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Red & Green Christmas Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of baking time. So, you’ll be enjoying it in about an hour! It’s perfect for holiday brunches or cozy dinners.
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 9×9 inch casserole dish (or similar size) with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, warm up your olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it gets nice and soft. Next, throw in the cooked sausage and stir it around for another 3 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
3. Add the Peppers and Spinach:
Stir in the chopped green and red bell peppers, cooking for about 2 minutes until they’re tender. After that, add the chopped spinach and cook it just until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once done, take the skillet off the heat and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until everything is well combined. Then, mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese—this adds great flavor!
5. Combine and Pour:
Add the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to your egg mixture, stirring gently to combine. Carefully pour this delightful mixture into your greased casserole dish. To finish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a yummy cheesy crust.
6. Bake and Serve:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set and golden on top. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it up for serving.
This Red & Green Christmas Casserole is not only festive but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy family breakfast. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before adding it to the dish. This will help prevent excess moisture in your casserole.
What If I Don’t Have Breakfast Sausage?
No problem! You can substitute with any cooked sausage you prefer, such as Italian sausage or turkey sausage. For a vegetarian option, try using diced mushrooms or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning—add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s great as a quick breakfast or snack the next day!
