JENNIFER ALEXANDER RUPLE

The most wonderful time of the year can be a whirlwind! With a flurry of festive activities, shopping, and family gatherings, Christmas can quickly turn from joyful to overwhelming. However, a little advance planning can make all the difference in ensuring a calm and enjoyable season.

One of the best ways to reduce stress is by getting a head start on meals, beginning with breakfast. This year, treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious overnight breakfast casserole featuring buttery croissants, vibrant spinach, and nutty Gruyère cheese. By assembling the casserole the night before, you can simply pop it in the oven on Christmas morning, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities.

Spinach, Gruyère and Feta Overnight Croissant Casserole
5 medium size butter croissants, each cut into 8 pieces
10 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup sweet onion, minced
2 cups packed baby spinach, chopped
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled

Assemble
Heat oven to 350 F. Spread croissant pieces on a baking sheet and lightly toast for 5 minutes. Set aside.

To a large mixing bowl, add eggs, milk, mustard, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.

Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. Spread out half of the croissant pieces in the baking dish. Top with half of the minced onion and half of the spinach. Sprinkle with half of the Gruyère and half of the feta. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.

Cover casserole with foil and place it in the refrigerator overnight.

Bake
When ready to bake, remove casserole from the refrigerator and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, heat oven to 350 F.

Bake casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 to 30 minutes or until the middle is set.

Jen’s Holiday Hosting Hacks

Create menus ahead of time. Determine the foods you’ll make from scratch and what can be ordered from a local grocery store, restaurant or bakery.

Write a detailed shopping list. Check off your list by picking up non-perishable items and supplies in the weeks leading up to the holiday. Better yet, order them online and have them delivered.

Prep in advance. Chop veggies a day or two earlier than needed. Bake cookies and breads weeks ahead and freeze them. Make sauces and gravies the day before.

Accept help. When guests ask, “Can I bring something?” graciously accept and ask them to bring a dessert, appetizer or side dish.

Make time for yourself. Maintain healthy habits leading up to the big day. Drink plenty of water, eat nutritious foods, get some exercise, and take naps when needed.