French Toast Casserole

Reclaim Your Christmas Morning

We’ve all been there: It’s a holiday morning, the family is gathering, excitement is in the air, and you are… stuck at the stove flipping individual slices of French toast while everyone else is having fun.

Food is love, but you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality time to put a delicious meal on the table. That is exactly why this Overnight French Toast Casserole has become a non-negotiable family tradition in my home (and soon to be yours!).

This isn’t just “soggy bread in a pan.” This recipe uses hearty Italian bread that stands up to a rich custard soak, ensuring every bite is substantial and creamy, never mushy. But the real game-changer? The Praline Topping. A simple mixture of butter, brown sugar, and flour that creates a crunchy, caramelized crust that elevates this dish from “breakfast” to “dessert-level delicious.”

The best part is that all the work is done the day before. You simply assemble it, let it hang out in the fridge while you sleep, and bake it fresh the next morning. Whether you serve it with a side of savory bacon or a drizzle of maple syrup, this casserole is guaranteed to be the star of the table.

Can I use regular sliced white sandwich bread?

I highly recommend against it. Standard sandwich bread is too soft and will likely turn into mush after soaking overnight. You want a bread with “structure” and a good crust, like a bakery loaf of Italian, French, or Sourdough bread.

Do I really have to let it sit overnight?

For the best texture, yes. The bread needs time to fully absorb the milk and egg mixture so that it puffs up beautifully in the oven. If you are in a rush, try to let it soak for at least 3 to 4 hours, but overnight is superior.

Can I put the topping on right before baking instead of the night before?

Yes, you can! Some recipes suggest storing the topping in a Ziploc bag and adding it in the morning to keep it extra crisp. However, I have found that adding it the night before saves a step and it still bakes up perfectly crunchy.

How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

Casseroles can be tricky. The top will look done before the center is. At the 45-minute mark, insert a butter knife into the direct center of the casserole. If it comes out with runny liquid, it needs more time. If it comes out clean (or just moist with steam), it’s ready.

Can I add fruit or nuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or walnuts make a great addition to the praline topping. You can also scatter blueberries or apple slices in with the bread cubes before pouring the custard over the top.

How long will leftovers last?

If you manage to have any leftovers, cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats wonderfully in the microwave or air fryer!