Crouton Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole featuring savory sausage, cheesy croutons, and creamy egg mixture, perfect for brunch gatherings or weekend brunches with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put croutons in a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cook sausage, drain, and sprinkle on top of the croutons.
- Add grated Cheddar cheese over the sausage.
- Combine eggs, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the cheese in the pan.
- Refrigerate overnight.
- Bake at 300°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the strata. You can also substitute the Jimmy Dean sausage with a turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter version. If you prefer a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk. Pairing this dish with a fresh salad can balance the richness, making it a delightful brunch option.
Serving Suggestions
Crouton strata is perfect for brunch, served alongside fresh fruit or a light green salad. Drizzle with hot sauce or serve with a side of salsa for added kick. This dish pairs beautifully with a mimosa or coffee for a refreshing beverage option. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of Baked Potato Salad With Hot Dogs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker serving, but be cautious not to overheat, as it may dry out the strata.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crouton Strata contains roughly 414 calories, with 11g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% 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 crouton strata ahead of time?
Yes, crouton strata is ideal for making ahead! After assembling the dish, cover it tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld, making for a more delicious breakfast. Just remember to bake it the next day as directed for the best results.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of chicken or a homemade cream sauce. To make a simple version, combine heavy cream with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and seasonings, blending until smooth for a similar texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version of crouton strata, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add extra cheese for flavor and richness, ensuring it remains a hearty and satisfying dish.
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).