Sausage And Chili Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole combining sausage, cheesy layers, and chilies, perfect for brunch or family gatherings, offering spicy, savory flavors in a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage over medium heat and drain well.
- Add diced chilies to the sausage and mix.
- Cube the wheat bread.
- Place half of the bread cubes in the bottom of an oiled lasagna pan.
- Sprinkle with half of the cooked sausage mixture and half of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining bread, sausage mixture, and cheese.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt (optional), and dry mustard.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until set and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. You can also substitute the sharp Cheddar with a milder cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different flavor profile. If you don't have diced chilies, try using jalapeños for added heat. Ensure the bread is slightly stale for better absorption of the egg mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This Sausage and Chili Strata is perfect for brunch and pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad. Consider serving it alongside a hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick. For a complete meal, serve with a side of Cheesy Meat Dip for a fun appetizer before the main dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the strata with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage And Chili Strata contains roughly 1305 calories, with 18g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2055mg per serving (89% 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 strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the strata the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, you can bake it straight from the fridge, but allow for an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time.
What can I use instead of wheat bread?
You can use any type of bread you like, such as sourdough, white bread, or even croissants for a richer flavor. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the layers and absorb the egg mixture well.
How do I know when the strata is done baking?
The strata is done when it is set in the center and bubbly around the edges. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean. If it browns too quickly on top, cover it loosely with foil during the last few minutes of 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).