Breakfast Casserole(Strata)
A hearty breakfast casserole with sausage, cheese, and bread, baked to perfection. Ideal for family brunches or weekend gatherings, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put buttered bread slices in a buttered baking dish.
- Cook sausage until brown, stirring until crumbled.
- Drain and spoon the cooked sausage over the bread slices.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sausage and bread.
- In a bowl, beat eggs, salt, and cream together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cheese and sausage layers.
- Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from refrigerator 15 minutes before baking.
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sausage mixture. You can substitute the sausage with turkey sausage or a vegetarian option for a lighter version. Using a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar and mozzarella, can elevate the flavor profile. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked sausage to speed up the process.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings. Serve it alongside fresh fruit, a light salad, or even a citrusy dish like Orange Cream Pie for a delightful contrast. Pairing it with mimosas or coffee elevates the meal, making it a festive occasion. For a heartier breakfast, consider adding crispy bacon or hash browns on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Casserole(Strata) contains roughly 441 calories, with 8g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (17% of the Daily Value), and calcium (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1636mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While buttered bread is traditional, you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or even croissants for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the egg mixture.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this breakfast casserole gluten-free, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Ensure that all other ingredients, like sausage and cheese, are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).