Sausage, Egg And Cheese Strata
A hearty breakfast casserole combining savory sausage, melted cheddar, and fluffy eggs layered with bread, perfect for family brunches or weekend gatherings. Its rich flavors and warm, comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser, especially suited to those who enjoy cheesy, meaty breakfast dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube the bread to fit a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Layer the cubed bread in the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Cheddar cheese over the bread.
- Add the cooked sausage patties crumbled over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with remaining bread, cheese, and sausage.
- Beat the eggs with the milk until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the strata for 20 to 30 minutes until puffed and golden.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sourdough or whole grain bread instead of white. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. For a vegetarian option, replace sausage with sautéed vegetables or use a meat substitute. This dish is similar to a Southern Breakfast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the strata hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon. For a complete brunch experience, consider offering mimosas or coffee alongside. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared the night before for convenience.
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) and bake the strata for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage, Egg And Cheese Strata contains roughly 1020 calories, with 33g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (89% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1124mg per serving (49% 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, this strata is ideal for making ahead! You can prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Allow it to sit overnight to let the flavors meld properly. Just remember to adjust baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.
What kind of bread works best for strata?
Stale or day-old bread works best as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Sourdough, French bread, or even brioche can add unique flavors and textures to your strata. Avoid soft sandwich bread for the best results.
Can I freeze the sausage, egg, and cheese strata?
Yes, you can freeze the strata. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
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).