Egg Strata
Egg Strata is a hearty breakfast casserole combining savory sausage or ham, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection with seasoned eggs and milk. Ideal for family brunches or gatherings, it offers a satisfying, cheesy, and flavorful start to the day, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage, drain excess fat, and crumble into a 13 x 9-inch dish.
- Sauté the hash browns in oleo, then spread them over the sausage in the dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes.
- Mix eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic, and minced onion together.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage or omitting the meat entirely. You can substitute the oleo with butter or olive oil, and use any combination of cheeses you have on hand, such as cheddar or mozzarella. If you want to add some vegetables, diced bell peppers or spinach can be a great addition. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the egg strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a complete brunch spread. You can also serve it alongside a classic dish like Pepperoni Pizza Dip for a fun breakfast gathering or family brunch.
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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Egg Strata contains roughly 687 calories, with 13g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 938mg per serving (41% 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 egg strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Any cheese that melts well can be used, but a combination of cheddar and mozzarella gives a nice flavor and texture. You can also experiment with gouda or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Feel free to use leftover cheeses from your fridge.
Can I freeze the egg strata?
Yes, you can freeze the egg strata before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Freezing after baking is not recommended, as it may affect the texture.
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).