Sausage Cheese Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole combining savory sausage, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and toasted bread, perfect for brunch or family gatherings with rich, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the sausage meat in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat and set aside.
- Remove crusts from bread slices and cut into 1-inch cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs lightly and add milk, salt, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and cooled melted butter; whisk until well combined.
- Layer bread cubes in a greased baking dish, then sprinkle cooked sausage and grated Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the bread.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered ingredients, ensuring all bread cubes are soaked.
- Bake uncovered for about 1 hour or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding sautéed onions and bell peppers. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar or Swiss can work as a great substitute. Make sure to let the strata sit for at least 30 minutes before baking to allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture for optimal texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 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 complete brunch. For a delightful dessert, follow with a slice of Chocolate Pie Lite or a piece of Cranberry Supreme.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sausage cheese strata can be stored 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 (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well if wrapped tightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Cheese Strata contains roughly 495 calories, with 11g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1590mg per serving (69% 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 prepare the strata ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the strata the night before and refrigerate it. Just ensure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What kind of bread works best for this recipe?
Stale or day-old bread works best as it holds up better when soaked in the egg mixture. You can use white bread, sourdough, or even whole grain for added flavor and texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the sausage and substitute it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Adding a bit of extra cheese can enhance the flavor while keeping it satisfying.
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).