Easter Morning Casserole(Egg And Cheese Strata)
A hearty overnight casserole combining bread, ham or sausage, and cheese, baked to perfection for a delicious Easter morning breakfast that appeals to family and guests alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together and let sit in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of ham or breakfast sausage. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, any cheese that melts well can be used. To enhance flavor, add herbs like thyme or chives. Letting the casserole sit overnight allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, creating a custardy texture, similar to what you might find in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty breakfast or brunch option that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a light salad. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing Zucchini Squash Onion Bake for a colorful spread. Drizzle with hot sauce for added heat or serve with a side of biscuits for a complete meal.
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 about 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easter Morning Casserole(Egg And Cheese Strata) contains roughly 904 calories, with 19g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1623mg 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 make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make the Easter Morning Casserole vegetarian by omitting the ham or sausage and adding more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers. You can also use vegetable broth instead of milk for added flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
This casserole is perfect for make-ahead preparation. Simply assemble all the ingredients the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's cold.
What can I do if I don't have French bread?
If French bread is unavailable, any sturdy bread, such as sourdough or whole wheat, can be used. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale to absorb the egg mixture effectively. Avoid using soft bread, as it may become too mushy during baking.
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).