Growing up, my family lived states away from all of our relatives. So our traditions were all “first-generation.” Christmas Eve we would go to church and then come home to open presents from our absent relatives. Then off to bed to wait for Santa!
Christmas morning, even with five children, one gift at a time was unwrapped. As soon as my turn had passed, I would go get something to eat. No food was allowed in the living room, so a few bites and then hopefully it was my turn again!
The dining room table offered juice, pastries and fruit. I try to continue the gift-unwrapping tradition (with limited success), but have expanded the morning brunch. This recipe can be prepared the day before and popped in the oven in the morning. It can be adapted to your family’s preferences- Swiss instead of cheddar cheese, asparagus or corn and black beans for the vegetables, etc. You can also put it in the oven, turn it on to 350° (skip preheating) and add a couple minutes to the baking time. I can’t tell you the number of times I have turned on the oven and forgotten to put the dish in to bake!
Very Easy Egg Casserole
Ingredients: 6 eggs, 2 T butter, 1/8 cup milk, ½ cup cream of celery soup, 1 c. grated cheddar cheese, 1 c. vegetables (I use a frozen medley- cauliflower, broccoli, etc.), 1 c. cooked breakfast meat (sausage, ham or bacon)
Preheat oven to 350°. Beat eggs, add butter, milk, soup and combine well. Mix in cheese, vegetables and meat. Pour into 9X13 baking dish and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes. It will be firm, like an omelet when done.
Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays!
