Cheese Strata(Breakfast Casserole)
A hearty breakfast casserole with sausage, cheese, and bread, baked to golden perfection — perfect for family brunches or weekend mornings with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim crusts from bread and lightly butter each slice.
- Brown the sausage in a skillet until cooked through.
- Place 6 slices of bread in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, buttered side up.
- Spread half of the crumbled, drained sausage or bacon and cheese over the bread.
- Add the remaining 6 slices of bread on top, followed by the rest of the sausage and cheese.
- Lightly beat together the eggs, milk, and salt in a bowl.
- Pour the egg mixture over the assembled casserole.
- Press down with a spatula until the milk comes through and the ingredients are soaked.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Optional: add mushrooms before baking for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider using sourdough or whole grain bread instead of white. You can also substitute the sausage with turkey sausage or a vegetarian option for a healthier alternative. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the sausage. Prepping the dish the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside crispy hash browns or roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Strata(Breakfast Casserole) contains roughly 375 calories, with 10g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (29% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1229mg per serving (53% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assembling the strata a day in advance is recommended. After pouring the egg mixture over the bread, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the mixture, resulting in a more flavorful and moist casserole.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese option, consider using Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. You could also try a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version, though the texture may differ slightly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your strata. Just sauté them briefly before adding to the casserole to reduce moisture and ensure they cook through.
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).