Sierra Ski Brunch
A hearty brunch casserole combining savory Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, and melted cheese, layered with bread and baked to perfection—ideal for weekend gatherings and special mornings.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. butter ⓘ
- 12 slices white bread (crusts removed) ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. mushrooms, sliced ⓘ
- 2 c. thinly sliced onions ⓘ
- 1/2 c. melted butter ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. mild Italian sausage ⓘ
- 3/4 lb. grated Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 5 eggs ⓘ
- 2 1/2 c. milk ⓘ
- 3 tsp. Dijon mustard ⓘ
- 1 tsp. dry mustard
- 1 tsp. ground nutmeg ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/8 tsp. ground pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Butter the slices of bread and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the sliced mushrooms and onions in melted butter until tender, about 5 to 8 minutes.
- Cut the Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces and sauté in a separate skillet until cooked through.
- Layer the buttered bread slices in a greased baking dish.
- Spread the cooked mushrooms and onions over the bread.
- Add the cooked sausage on top of the vegetables.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Dijon mustard, dry mustard, ground nutmeg, salt, and ground pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, in place of standard white mushrooms. You can substitute the mild Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with sautéed spinach or cooked lentils. Additionally, stale bread works perfectly for this dish, enhancing its texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sierra Ski Brunch warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a Mimosa or a hot cup of spiced cider to enhance your brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers 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 bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. This ensures the dish retains its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sierra Ski Brunch contains roughly 1142 calories, with 32g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (143% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1078mg per serving (47% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Sierra Ski Brunch the night before. After layering the bread, mushrooms, onions, and sausage, cover it tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, simply whisk the egg mixture and pour it over the layered ingredients before baking. This can save time and make your brunch prep easier.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different flavor profile, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. For a sharper taste, consider using aged Gouda. These alternatives will still melt beautifully and complement the dish well.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked Sierra Ski Brunch. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or special occasions.
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).