Sausage And Cheese Strata(Adapted From Gourmet)
A hearty baked casserole combining sausage, cheese, and bread, perfect for brunch or breakfast gatherings with rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. sausage meat ⓘ
- 8 slices homemade-type white bread, crusts removed and cut into 1/2-inch cubes ⓘ
- 3/4 lb. Monterey Jack cheese, grated ⓘ
- 4 large eggs ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard ⓘ
- pinch of cayenne ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled ⓘ
Instructions
- In a skillet, brown the sausage over moderately high heat, breaking it up with a fork, then transfer it to paper towels to drain.
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly and whisk in the milk, salt, Dijon mustard, cayenne, Worcestershire sauce, and cooled melted butter.
- Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the grated cheese over the bread cubes.
- Distribute the cooked sausage evenly over the cheese and bread.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, pressing down gently to soak the bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven until puffed and golden, about 35 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, try using spicy sausage or adding sautéed onions and bell peppers. You can substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or a dairy-free cheese if needed. For added richness, consider incorporating some heavy cream into the egg mixture. Ensure you let the strata sit for at least 30 minutes before baking for optimal flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sausage and cheese strata warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or fresh fruit for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing drink like a fruit-infused iced tea for a delightful brunch experience.
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 1-2 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This dish can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage And Cheese Strata(Adapted From Gourmet) contains roughly 620 calories, with 11g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1485mg per serving (65% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate it. Just be sure to cover it tightly. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze leftover strata?
Absolutely! You can freeze the strata after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What variations can I try in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value. Experimenting with different types of bread, such as sourdough or whole grain, can also change the texture and flavor profile. For a sweet version, consider adding fruit like blueberries or bananas.
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).