11 Savory Christmas Breakfast Recipes That Hit the Spot

With Christmas morning just around the corner, the excitement of sharing a special breakfast with friends and family fills the air. Picture starting the day with a delightful cheesy bacon and egg casserole or savoring spinach and feta-stuffed croissants. Each recipe offers its own burst of flavor, from savory herb scones to a vibrant tomato and basil frittata. Ready to explore these delicious creations? Let’s celebrate the joy of Christmas with these savory breakfast ideas.

Cheesy Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole

Cheesy Bacon and Egg Breakfast Casserole is the perfect dish to kick off your Christmas morning festivities. This hearty breakfast casserole is packed with layers of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, gooey cheese, and savory bread, all baked together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more quality moments with your loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your family’s preferences. You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or onions to give it a nutritional boost or switch up the cheese type to create different flavor profiles.

The casserole can be prepared the night before and simply popped in the oven the morning of Christmas, making it a stress-free solution to feeding a crowd. The following recipe serves 4-6 people, guaranteeing everyone can enjoy a generous helping.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 cups cubed day-old bread (such as French bread or sourdough)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.

2. Prepare the Bread: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed day-old bread with the melted butter, tossing to coat evenly. This will help the bread absorb the egg mixture and give it a crispy texture once baked.

3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

4. Mix the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This will be the custard base that binds the casserole together.

5. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the bread cubes, followed by half of the bacon and cheese. Pour half of the egg mixture over the top.

Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, bacon, cheese, and egg mixture, guaranteeing everything is evenly distributed.

6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the eggs are fully set.

7. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for added flavor and color, if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a more flavorful casserole, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the egg mixture.

If you’re making the casserole ahead of time, assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. On Christmas morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This will guarantee even cooking.

Finally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss, to create your ideal cheesy breakfast delight.

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Croissants

Spinach and Feta Stuffed Croissants are a delightful way to start your Christmas morning. The rich, buttery croissants filled with a savory mixture of spinach and feta cheese offer a perfect combination of flavors that are bound to please both family and guests.

This elegant and tasty breakfast option isn’t only easy to prepare but also provides a warm and comforting start to your festive day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing you to enjoy the morning without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The dish is perfect for a family gathering, as it can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed. The creamy feta cheese beautifully complements the earthy taste of spinach, while the flaky croissant pastry adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, these Spinach and Feta Stuffed Croissants are a foolproof addition to your Christmas breakfast menu. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 6 large croissants
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that your croissants will bake evenly and achieve the perfect golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Filling: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach mixture with the crumbled feta cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the filling is well mixed and evenly seasoned.
4. Prepare the Croissants: Slice each croissant in half horizontally without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket for the filling. Be gentle to avoid tearing the pastry.
5. Stuff the Croissants: Spoon a generous amount of the spinach and feta mixture into each croissant pocket. Press gently to confirm the filling is evenly distributed.
6. Apply Egg Wash: Place the stuffed croissants on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the croissants with the beaten egg to create a shiny, golden finish once baked.
7. Bake the Croissants: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the croissants are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let the croissants cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm for the best taste and texture.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling mixture. If you prefer a creamier filling, mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese with the feta.

Always use fresh spinach for the most vibrant taste, but if using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling. Finally, you can prepare the filling a day in advance to save time on the morning of your Christmas breakfast.

Sausage and Potato Hash

Start your Christmas morning with a hearty and delicious Sausage and Potato Hash. This comforting dish combines crispy potatoes, savory sausage, and a medley of colorful vegetables to create a breakfast that satisfies both the eyes and the palate. The aromatic blend of herbs and spices elevates the flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday breakfast table.

Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also simple and quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festive day with your loved ones. Gather your family around the table and savor the delightful mix of textures and tastes in this Sausage and Potato Hash.

The crispy golden potatoes paired with juicy sausage pieces create an ideal balance, while the addition of onions, bell peppers, and optional greens like spinach or kale add freshness and color to the dish. With this recipe, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal that will quickly become a Christmas breakfast tradition.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 pound breakfast sausage
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Dice the onion and bell peppers, mince the garlic, and chop the spinach or kale if using.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage. Break it up into small pieces with a spatula and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings.
3. Cook the Potatoes: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet with the sausage drippings. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the diced potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the potatoes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden and crispy, approximately 15 minutes.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Stir in the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Combine and Finish: Return the sausage to the skillet, and if using, add the chopped spinach or kale. Stir everything together and cook until the greens are wilted and everything is heated through, about 3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Transfer the hash to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape well during cooking. If you prefer a spicier hash, consider using hot sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

You can also prepare the ingredients the night before to save time on Christmas morning. Just store them in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to cook, simply follow the steps. Finally, this dish is versatile, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.

Mushroom and Swiss Cheese Omelette

Mushroom and Swiss Cheese Omelette is a delightful choice for a festive Christmas breakfast. This dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the creamy and nutty notes of Swiss cheese, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Perfectly fluffy eggs envelop the filling, making it a beautiful and delicious addition to your holiday spread.

Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a cozy breakfast with a few loved ones, this omelette is guaranteed to please. The preparation is simple, yet the results are impressive, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday morning with your family and less time in the kitchen.

The key to a great omelette lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique used to cook it. This recipe will guide you through the process to achieve a perfectly cooked omelette every time.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people)

• 12 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy. This will guarantee the omelette is light and airy.
2. Cook the Mushrooms: In a large non-stick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have released their moisture. Remove the mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Omelette: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the edges start to set but the center is still slightly runny.
4. Add the Fillings: Evenly distribute the cooked mushrooms and shredded Swiss cheese over one half of the omelette. If using, sprinkle the chopped chives on top.
5. Fold and Finish Cooking: Use a spatula to carefully fold the other half of the omelette over the filling. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the eggs are fully set.
6. Serve: Slide the omelette onto a serving platter and cut into portions. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Extra Tips

For the best results, use the freshest eggs and high-quality Swiss cheese you can find. If your Swiss cheese is very mild, you might want to add a little more to enhance the flavor.

Be sure to keep the heat at medium-low to avoid overcooking the eggs, which should remain soft and tender. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the mushrooms with spinach or add cooked bacon for a heartier dish.

Enjoy your Christmas breakfast with this delicious Mushroom and Swiss Cheese Omelette!

Savory Herb and Cheese Scones

Savory Herb and Cheese Scones make for a delightful addition to your Christmas breakfast spread, offering a flavorful and satisfying start to the day. These scones combine the rich taste of cheese with the aromatic goodness of fresh herbs, creating a savory treat that pairs perfectly with other breakfast staples.

Whether served warm from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, these scones are bound to become a favorite in your holiday breakfast tradition. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and a medley of fresh herbs such as chives, parsley, and thyme infuses the scones with a robust flavor profile.

The tender crumb, with its golden-brown crust, provides a delightful contrast to the savory filling. Best of all, these scones are easy to prepare and can be made in advance, saving you time on the busy Christmas morning.

Ingredients for 4-6 Servings:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to guarantee the ingredients are well distributed.
3. Incorporate Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Cheese and Herbs: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped chives, parsley, and thyme. Mix until the cheese and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the scones tough.
6. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead it a few times until it comes together. Pat the dough into a circle about 1-inch thick. Use a knife or a round cutter to cut out scones.
7. Bake the Scones: Place the scones onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the scones are golden brown on top. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Extra Tips:

For an even more pronounced flavor, consider using an aged cheddar cheese, which will add a deeper, nuttier taste to the scones. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but be sure to reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more potent.

Additionally, if you prefer a softer scone, you can brush the tops with a little buttermilk before baking to help them retain moisture. These scones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat in a warm oven to refresh them.

Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast

Start your Christmas morning with a delightful and nutritious Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast. This dish brings together the creamy richness of avocado, the smoky flavor of salmon, and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread.

It’s a simple yet elegant breakfast that adds a touch of luxury to your holiday morning. Perfect for a cozy breakfast in bed or a festive brunch with family, this dish is bound to impress with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors.

The combination of smoked salmon and avocado not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides a host of health benefits. Packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, this dish keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the morning.

It’s quick to prepare and can be easily customized to suit different preferences by adding toppings like capers, red onion, or a sprinkle of dill. Get ready to enjoy a revitalizing and satisfying start to your Christmas day!

Ingredients for 4-6 Servings:

• 8 slices of whole-grain or sourdough bread
• 2 ripe avocados
• 200g (7 oz) smoked salmon
• 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh dill
• Optional toppings: capers, thinly sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Begin by toasting the slices of whole-grain or sourdough bread in a toaster or on a grill until they’re golden brown and crispy. Set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Avocado Spread: Cut the avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a mixing bowl. Add the juice of half a lemon, and season with salt and pepper.

Mash the avocados with a fork until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Assemble the Toasts: Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture on each slice of toasted bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.

4. Add the Smoked Salmon: Layer the smoked salmon evenly over the avocado spread on each piece of toast. Use about 1-2 slices of salmon per toast, depending on the size of your bread slices.

5. Garnish and Serve: Squeeze a little more lemon juice over the salmon for added freshness. Garnish each toast with a few sprigs of fresh dill.

If desired, add optional toppings such as capers, thinly sliced red onion, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the flavors.

6. Plate and Enjoy: Arrange the toasts on a serving platter and serve immediately. The combination of textures and flavors makes these toasts a delightful breakfast treat.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, choose ripe avocados that are soft to the touch but not overly mushy. If you prefer a chunkier spread, mash the avocados less thoroughly, leaving some small chunks for texture.

If you’re serving this dish to a larger group, consider setting up a toast bar where guests can assemble their own toasts with a variety of toppings. This allows for personalization and guarantees that everyone gets exactly what they enjoy.

Additionally, for a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free toast. Enjoy your festive and delicious Smoked Salmon and Avocado Toast this Christmas morning!

Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Tacos

This recipe is ideal for serving 4-6 people, making it great for family gatherings or a small holiday brunch. The preparation is simple, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up these delicious tacos in no time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving, guaranteeing a successful and tasty outcome every time.

Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound chorizo sausage
• 10 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chorizo: Remove the chorizo from its casing if necessary. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chorizo and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully cooked and slightly crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes.

Once cooked, transfer the chorizo to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture****: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will guarantee the eggs are fluffy and well-seasoned.

3. Cook the Eggs: In the same skillet used for the chorizo, add olive oil and heat over medium-low heat. Pour in the egg mixture and let it cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are set but still soft and creamy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

4. Combine Chorizo and Eggs: Return the chorizo to the skillet with the eggs and gently fold everything together until evenly mixed. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.

5. Warm the Tortillas: While the chorizo and eggs finish cooking, heat the tortillas. You can do this by placing them directly over a gas flame for a few seconds on each side or by warming them in a dry skillet.

6. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, place a portion of the chorizo and egg mixture onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, sliced avocado, salsa, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while warm.

Extra Tips:

To add more depth of flavor, consider sautéing some diced onions and bell peppers with the chorizo. For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture.

If you prefer flour tortillas over corn, feel free to substitute them. To keep the tacos warm before serving, you can wrap them in foil and place them in a low oven.

Enjoy these tacos with a side of refried beans or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast feast.

Leek and Gruyere Quiche

Leek and Gruyere Quiche is a delightful and sophisticated dish perfect for a Christmas breakfast. This quiche combines the subtle sweetness of leeks with the nutty, rich flavor of Gruyere cheese, all encased in a buttery, flaky crust. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to serve something elegant yet comforting to their guests during the holiday season.

The creamy filling and perfectly browned top make for a visually appealing centerpiece on any breakfast table. This quiche is versatile and can be prepared a day in advance, freeing up your time on Christmas morning to focus on other festivities.

Whether you’re serving it as part of a larger breakfast spread or enjoying it on its own, Leek and Gruyere Quiche is sure to impress with its delicate balance of flavors and textures. With its satisfying richness, it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a fruit platter, making your holiday breakfast both delicious and memorable.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s at the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the quiche.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust: Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the bottom and sides of the dish and trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
3. Cook the Leeks: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the leeks are soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and ground nutmeg until well combined. Stir in the grated Gruyere cheese and cooked leeks.
5. Assemble the Quiche: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow.
6. Bake the Quiche: Transfer the quiche to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the quiche to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the filling set further and make serving easier. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

When working with leeks, make certain you clean them thoroughly, as leeks can harbor dirt and grit between their layers. To do this, slice the leeks and soak them in a bowl of cold water, swishing them around to dislodge any debris.

You can substitute Gruyere with Swiss cheese if you prefer a slightly milder flavor. If you want to add a bit more color and flavor, consider adding a handful of sautéed mushrooms or some cooked bacon bits to the filling. Enjoy your Christmas breakfast with this delightful quiche that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Ham and Cheddar Breakfast Strata

Ham and Cheddar Breakfast Strata is a savory and satisfying dish perfect for a festive Christmas morning. This make-ahead recipe combines the flavors of smoky ham, sharp cheddar cheese, and fluffy bread, soaked in a rich custard. Not only does it serve as a delicious breakfast or brunch option, but it also allows you to enjoy the holiday with your loved ones without spending too much time in the kitchen.

This dish is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. The strata can be prepared the night before, allowing the flavors to meld together and ensuring a delightful texture. On Christmas morning, all you need to do is pop it in the oven, leaving you free to enjoy your time with family and friends. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional)
• Butter for greasing the baking dish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. This will prevent the strata from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

2. Assemble the Strata:

Place half of the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer with half of the ham and half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining bread, ham, and cheese to create a second layer.

3. Make the Custard:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. This custard will soak into the bread, providing moisture and flavor to the strata.

4. Add Custard to the Dish:

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread layers, ensuring all the bread is saturated. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.

5. Refrigerate:

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard fully.

6. Bake the Strata:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the strata from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Let the strata cool for a few minutes before slicing. Sprinkle with chopped chives, if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers into the strata. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Swiss, to switch up the flavor profile.

If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Remember to use day-old or slightly stale bread, as it will absorb the custard better, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

Enjoy serving this delicious strata as part of your festive Christmas breakfast!

Tomato and Basil Frittata

A Tomato and Basil Frittata is a perfect dish to add to your Christmas breakfast table. This Italian-inspired frittata is light yet flavorful, combining the freshness of tomatoes and aromatic basil with the richness of eggs and cheese.

It’s a versatile dish that can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it an ideal choice for a festive morning when you want to spend more time with your loved ones rather than in the kitchen.

The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil brings a burst of summer flavors, even in the heart of winter. This frittata can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature, and pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

It’s nutritious and satisfying, making it a wonderful option for a holiday breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s ready for the frittata to bake.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will form the base of your frittata.

3. Cook the Vegetables: In an ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Combine Ingredients in the Skillet: Pour the egg mixture over the sautéed onion and tomatoes in the skillet. Sprinkle the chopped basil evenly over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake the Frittata: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the frittata is puffed up and golden brown on top, and the center is set.

6. Cool and Serve: Remove the frittata from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the basil and tomatoes.

If you want to add more depth to the dish, consider incorporating other ingredients like spinach or bell peppers.

To prevent the frittata from sticking to the skillet, make sure it’s well-oiled before adding the eggs.

If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you can start the frittata on the stove and transfer it to a baking dish for the oven.

Enjoy this dish with a side of mixed greens or a light fruit salad for a complete breakfast experience.

Breakfast BLT With Avocado Spread

Start your Christmas morning with a festive and flavorful Breakfast BLT with Avocado Spread. This delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich elevates your breakfast experience with the creamy richness of avocado spread, perfectly crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes.

It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that combines the best of breakfast and lunch into one delicious dish, making it an excellent choice for a festive morning or brunch gathering. Whether you’re hosting family or just enjoying a quiet Christmas morning, this BLT is sure to become a holiday favorite.

The avocado spread adds a creamy texture and a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the smoky bacon and fresh vegetables, creating a delightful balance of tastes and textures. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.

It’s easy to prepare and can be ready in just a few simple steps, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities. Pair it with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of fresh orange juice for a complete and satisfying breakfast experience.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 12 slices of bacon
• 8 slices of whole-grain bread
• 2 large avocados
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced
• 6 leaves of romaine lettuce
• Butter for toasting (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bacon slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and golden. Remove from the oven and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
2. Make the Avocado Spread: While the bacon is cooking, halve and pit the avocados. Scoop the flesh into a bowl and mash with a fork until smooth. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste, and stir until well combined. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Bread: Lightly butter the slices of whole-grain bread if desired. Toast the bread slices in a toaster or on a hot skillet until golden brown.
4. Mix the Spread: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread a thin layer of this mixture on one side of each toasted bread slice.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of avocado spread on the opposite side of the bread slices with the mayonnaise and mustard mixture. Layer each sandwich with crispy bacon, slices of fresh tomato, and romaine lettuce.
6. Serve: Cut each sandwich in half and serve immediately while the bacon is still warm. Enjoy your Christmas breakfast with your favorite hot or cold beverage.

Extra Tips:

For a healthier version, you can use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives. To add a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado spread.

If you’re planning to prepare this dish ahead of time, keep the avocado spread covered tightly to prevent browning, and cook the bacon just before serving for peak crispiness. Enjoy your holiday breakfast with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad for a well-rounded meal.