There’s nothing better than waking up to a warm, cheesy breakfast casserole from the oven. This comforting dish combines delicious sausage, soft eggs, soft bread, and melted cheese into one meat. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for the holidays but easy enough for a weekend meal. As it bakes, the bread soaks up all the rich flavor, creating a soft and golden center.
It’s filling, cozy, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether preparing for a busy morning or served fresh from the oven, this dish always delivers comfort and great taste.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because simple ingredients come together to create something rich, hearty, and full of flavor. The bread absorbs the egg mixture for a soft, buttery texture, while the sausage adds a delicious richness and the cheese brings melty goodness to every bite. Bake into a satisfying meal that feels comforting and special with very little effort.
It’s also a great recipe because it’s great for making ahead and feeding a group. You can prepare it the night before, customize it with different vegetables or cheese, and bake it when needed. It works for breakfast, brunch, or breakfast-for-dinner, making it a reliable recipe that’s easy, versatile, and always a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
Sausage for breakfast: Adds a sweet, spicy flavor and makes the dish heartier. Substitute: turkey sausage or plant-based sausage.
Bread: Cubed bread moistens the egg mixture and creates the base of the casserole. Substitutes: French bread, sourdough, or old-fashioned sandwich bread.
Eggs: Hold everything together and give the strata its soft texture.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, melting flavor. Substitutes: Monterey Jack, Swiss, or mozzarella.
Milk: Combines with eggs to make a creamy custard. What it holds: part and part of a rich texture.
Tips
- Use slightly stale bread to moisten the custard better.
- Let the strata rest before baking for the best texture.
- Season the sausage well for extra flavor.
- Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly while baking.
- Make it the night before for an easy breakfast casserole.
How to Serve
Sausage strata is a hearty breakfast or brunch dish that can be served on its own or with light sides to balance the richness.
- Serve with fresh fruit and yogurt.
- Pair with a light green salad for brunch.
- Serve with roasted potatoes and hot coffee.
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a skillet, cook the sauce until brown. Add onion and bell pepper and cook until soft.
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Spread bread cubes in a baking dish. Top with cooked sausage mixture and shredded cheese.
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In a bowl, combine eggs, milk, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and garlic powder.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread mixture. Press the bread down lightly to absorb the liquid.
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Let sit for 20 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight.
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Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
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Rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Calories: 408kcal Carbohydrates: 7g Protein: 24g Oil: 31g Saturated Fats: 13g Polyunsaturated Fats: 3g Monounsaturated Fats: 11g Trans Fats: 0.1g Cholesterol: 242mg Sodium: 929mg Potassium: 400mg Fiber: 1g Sugar: 5g Vitamin A: 1238IU Vitamin C: 22mg Calcium: 330mg Iron: 2mg
• Use slightly stale bread to moisten the custard better.
• Let the strata rest before baking for the best texture.
• Smash the sausage well for extra flavor.
• Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly while baking.
• Make it the day before for an easy breakfast casserole.