Christmas-Morning Italian Strata
A hearty, savory breakfast casserole with Italian sausage, cheeses, and herbs, perfect for festive mornings or brunch gatherings with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 by 13 inch glass baking dish.
- In a 10-inch skillet, over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, stirring frequently to break it up until thoroughly cooked and no longer pink.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the sausage to paper towels to drain.
- Cut the French bread into 1/2 inch cubes.
- Drain and chop the mushrooms.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (optional), and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture over the sausage mixture.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly baked Italian bread instead of store-bought French bread. You can also substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you want to add veggies, spinach or bell peppers work well. To make it ahead, prepare the night before and let the strata soak up the flavors overnight. This dish is a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings or brunch alongside other Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the strata warm, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or a light fruit salad. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Turkey Roll And Balsamic Sauce or Italian Sausage Loaf to create a delightful brunch spread that impresses your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas-Morning Italian Strata contains roughly 1764 calories, with 76g protein, 209g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (154% of the Daily Value), protein (152% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2441mg per serving (106% 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 the strata without sausage?
Absolutely! You can omit the sausage for a vegetarian version. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and texture. You could also use a meat substitute if desired, ensuring to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when it is puffed up and golden brown on top. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. Depending on your oven, this usually takes about 45-55 minutes at 350°F. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I freeze the strata?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked strata. Prepare it according to the recipe, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for holiday meals or busy mornings.
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).