Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort. It combines smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors into one dish that bakes up golden and delicious. It’s also highly adaptable—great for using up leftover bread and customizing with your favorite ingredients. Plus, you can prepare it in advance and bake it when needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
smoked sausage, sliced
eggs
milk
shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
onion, diced
bell pepper, diced
butter or oil
salt
black pepper
optional: herbs like parsley or chives
Directions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned. Add diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened. Remove from heat.
Spread half of the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the sausage mixture and a portion of the shredded cheese over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread, sausage mixture, and cheese.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
Let the dish sit for about 10–15 minutes to allow the bread to soak, or cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6–8
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Soaking time: 10–15 minutes (or overnight optional)
Cooking time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour (or overnight if prepped ahead)
Variations
Swap smoked sausage for cooked bacon or ham. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Use different cheeses such as mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack for a new twist. For a spicier version, include chili flakes or spicy sausage.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 160°C (325°F) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this strata ahead of time?
Yes, assembling it the night before and refrigerating allows the flavors to develop and improves texture.
What type of bread works best?
Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, any cooked sausage such as turkey, chicken, or spicy varieties will work.
How do I know when it’s fully cooked?
The center should be set and not jiggly, and the top should be golden brown.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use plant-based milk and cheese alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.
Why is my strata soggy?
Too much liquid or not enough baking time can cause sogginess. Ensure proper ratios and bake until fully set.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely, adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a fresh salad or fruit for balance.
Can I make individual portions?
Yes, divide the mixture into muffin tins or small ramekins and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Smoked sausage strata is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of rich, savory flavor. Whether served for brunch or dinner, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit any taste while delivering a warm and satisfying meal.
PrintSmoked Sausage Strata
A hearty baked casserole layered with bread, eggs, cheese, and smoky sausage, creating a rich and savory dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Ingredients
- 4 cups bread cubes (day-old)
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned. Add diced onion and bell pepper and sauté until softened, then remove from heat.
- Spread half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish. Layer with half of the sausage mixture and some of the shredded cheese. Repeat with remaining bread, sausage, and cheese.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Let the dish sit for 10–15 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture and absorption.
- Prepare ahead and refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Substitute sausage with bacon, ham, or plant-based alternatives if desired.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for variation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 190 mg
